Camp Activity 1: Blog Bling

Blog Bling

So, I have finally, over the span of multiple days, blinged my blog.  I chose three people to follow, added three gadgets, and if all went according to plan, I have embedded this video clip.  We shall see.

I chose a short clip explaining The Dakota Conflict of 1862.  I will be new to teaching 6th grade Social Studies in the fall and our new state standards dictate that 6th graders will be covering Minnesota Studies.  The Dakota Conflict is one of the important events of both Minnesota and U.S. history.  This video clip would be a quick, informative way to introduce students to the topic and to give them some visuals before reading more about the events of the conflict.

How could a blog be useful to me???

Well, using this video as an example, I think it would be useful to embed videos, photos, or readings on a particular topic and provide some structured questions for students to respond to.  What did they see?  What are their thoughts on the topic?  Perhaps they would also have the opportunity to see what others posted about the information as well.

What is the best option for me???

I am not sure.  I think that Blogger has a definite advantage since we will all have gmail accounts, but maybe this is not a big deal?

I was motivated to join Summer Camp 2.0 to learn more about technology tools I can use in my classroom.  I sometimes feel that the technology information we get during the school year is difficult to implement because I am already so busy.

I hope to learn things that will be useful in classroom instruction and assessment and things that will motivate students as well.

Does my cool thing have to be related to Summer Camp 2.0....?  If so, I am unsure.  If not, I hope to take my kids camping and enjoy some other fun trips with family.