Online Comments

Samantha McGrath

Online Comments

                I immediately took notice to the example given at the beginning of the chapter where a young third grade student was writing a book review. He noted that he wanted it to be good because not only was the teacher going to see it but his fellow classmates and his grandmother as well. This stood out to me because I could relate to the child’s concerns. Knowing that your peers are going to see and comment on your writing motivates the children to do their best. This is a huge plus to writing online reviews. Children want to do good so as to impress not only their classmates but whoever takes the time to read their work.

                This strategy would go hand in hand with creating a classroom blog as mentioned in the chapter. The student can use not only their prior knowledge to help them excel in reading and writing but also use the thoughts and ideas of the rest of the class. This would also give students the chance to share their opinions on their piers writing. Creating conversation that can lead to exploring and discovering new ideas. I do agree with the author when it is said that it is important to make sure all student know not only how to create and use a blog but understand what the teacher is looking for. Discussions and in class examples would have to be used before the students could go off on their own and work. It also gives the children the chance to work on their grammar and typing skills. Constantly writing with a pen and paper can be dull after a while. This new change in scenery can give the students a chance to try something new and be excited to work again. A change in pace and expectation can benefit the children.