Blogging Buddies appears to be an effective means of reinforcing reading and writing skills for elementary students. Separating composition from the physical act of writing takes frustration out of the equation, allowing for freer communication and more practice. The students seemed to appreciate having an audience to act as a sounding board and this helped them better grasp the mechanics of writing.

This method allows them to become better writers at an early age. They have become articulate about rules of punctuation through review and feedback. Encouraging them to comment on each others’ blogs fosters teamwork and learning through teaching. The act of evaluation itself makes them early critical readers and writers.

The motivation of getting to use the computer and writing for an audience besides the teacher make writing a more exciting experience. I agree with making the comments shorter, but perhaps after a week or two so that there can be a “getting to know one another” phase. Overall this seems like a valuable tool for getting students used to communicating effectively.

cc attribution wwodleywonderworks

I am a senior in History Ed. My aspiration is to teach high school, preferably elective, and not coach a team sport (if only to prove such a thing is possible.) Realistically, right off the bat I’ll be pleased to get a job anywhere within a 50 mile drive. My primary teaching inspiration is Mr. Jim Blackburn, who taught my fifth grade class so many things that weren’t included on any curriculum or standardized test checklist. One hopes such teaching won’t become a relic permanently.