Sliced Bread

Q: How have blogs helped you in teaching English?

Jo McLeay, head of English at Mater Christi College, shares her blogging experiences in Australian Teacher Magazine.

I had been reading other teachers’ blogs for a while and found them interesting and informative. Before I knew it, I was learning more about my profession, finding resources, engaging in discussion and renewing my passion for teaching and learning.

Student comments about blogging.

“.. I can read what people say, and I can take some of the language that they use and put it in to my vocabulary.”
Another student says: “I enjoy blogging for the fun — not the writing or language. But I guess it does help me understand writing and language.”
Another student, Larissa, adds: “Blogging helps me to be more careful in the way I write things and my spelling because other people will be reading [what] I write.”

I also think its important when Jo says

At least as important is the reading and commenting on the ideas of others. I believe in making connections and having conversations about the important issues in the lives of young people.

For learners unfamiliar with blogging or if you need ideas on the way in which students can learn through blogging these are just a few ideas from experienced teachers and students.

Have you blogged in your classroom and what are your experiences? Share your story.