Kidblog


 * =[[image:kidblog_logo.jpg align="right"]]What is [|Kidblog]?=
 * Kidblog is a safe and secure blogging environment developed by teachers for educational use.
 * The simple user interface makes it an excellent choice for elementary and middle school blogging projects.
 * =Why Blog in the Reading / Language Arts Block?=
 * "Every K-12 classroom should have a classroom blog to [|interactively share student work]. Classroom blogs offer a virtual space for teachers as well as students to provide “windows” into the learning which is taking place in the classroom, and are ideal for sharing photos, brief summaries, links, and other updates related to classroom activities."Kidblog is a safe and secure blogging environment developed by teachers for educational use." [|Wes Fryer, //Moving at the Speed of Creativity//]
 * Blogging is a natural fit for the Reading / Language Arts Block.
 * For Students:
 * Blogs are basically online journals. We have found that the technology element encourages students to write more.
 * Blogs provide students with a platform to showcase their creative writing and reading reflections.
 * Blogs provide an authentic audience for student writing. Students are much more aware of writing standards when they know they are writing for an audience who will be reading their work as opposed to writing for an assignment where only the teacher may view their work.
 * Blogging encourages creative and critical thinking, motivating students to make connections, extend ideas, and ask questions.
 * Blogging increases conversations between students about reading, books, and writing.
 * Blogging increases student / teacher communication.
 * Blogging allows students to practice their online social skills and discussion etiquette.
 * For Teachers
 * Blogging replaces bulky paper journals and are much more convenient to grade.
 * Blogging increases teacher / student communication.
 * Allows teachers to address writing issues in an authentic writing exercise.
 * For Parents
 * Blogging allows parents to more closely follow their child's reading / language arts education.
 * Blogging allows parents to "extend the conversation" about the books students are reading and writing about at home.