Response to Reading #8

Chapter 11 discussed using the internet to support students writing. I think that the internet is such a great motivator for students. Sometimes teachers have difficulty, like Karen, finding time to fit using the internet into their schedules. With younger students, you do have to devote time to practicing using the computer and the internet. Most younger students do not have the experience with typing, using the mouse, and using the internet. I think that making the time in the classroom to teach these skills would be beneficial to students. Once the foundation for using the internet is established, students will be able to be more independent when it comes to using the computer. This is a skill that students will use and it can be linked to learning/curriculum. I think that it is a great idea to use the internet as a whole group lesson. The chapter presented using WebQuest with the teacher facilitating and conducting shared reading of the websites. This can also be a model for students when teaching them to use the internet and computer.

I really liked how the WebQuest seems to be very organized. It seems that it lays out clear guidelines and students can refer to this. First it gives a rationale of the project and an overview of the tasks which sets the goals and objectives. Next step-by-step directions are given and also materials students will need (websites, handouts, etc.). It also gives evaluation and assessment rubrics. Finally, it provides a summary of what should be learned by the project. I like how the WebQuest sets clear expectations for students that they can refer back to.

I think that when students know their work is going to be displayed for numerous audiences on the internet, they will be more motivated to write well, proof-read, and edit their work. I also think that displaying students work on the internet gives them a real reason to write. They can relate their writing to the real world and to a real life situation. They know that a large audience could be reading their writing. They are not just “writing for the teacher.”