Wave Riding Writers

Funded Jun 20, 2017

We've received our Chromebooks and they're finally all up and running on the school's Wi-Fi. My 8th graders have used laptops before, but we're using them together this year in unique ways that help keep them engaged. The primary programs that we'll be using this year are Google Classroom to type and peer-edit their writing, and NoRedInk.com to develop their grammar skills in a format that mimics gaming. In a class of 32 students, I teach in stations to both keep them moving throughout the day and give students an opportunity to experience a topic in different ways. These 11 Chromebooks will furnish the laptop station.

We started the year in Writer's Workshop developing personal narratives. Many of my students were hesitant at first when they realized they'd be typing their final drafts. For weeks, they learned about how dialogue, text structure and writing a strong lead improves their writing. They've gone through several peer-edits and revisions of their work. As they began typing in Google Classroom yesterday, they were amazed that I could have virtual conversations and provide feedback as they worked. After just one session online, many students left class with a clearer understanding of how to structure their writing for publishing.

Some students finished typing their narratives early and began working on NoRedInk.com to complete a grammar diagnostic. This diagnostic will help me provide students with targeted support to develop the mechanics of their writing. In 14 years of teaching, I've rarely seen students as excited about practicing grammar skills as I saw my students this week as they worked through a personalized diagnostic with funny sentences. I'm confident that by being able to provide more immediate feedback about their writing in Google Classroom and giving students low-stakes opportunities to develop their grammar that my 8th graders will graduate better prepared to succeed in high school and beyond.

I am so thankful for your support in helping my students become 21st Century learners!”

With gratitude,

Ms. Oliver