5th Grade Bloggers

In the ongoing experiment about the best ways to use various tools within the elementary environment I have been letting one class create, manage, and curate their own independent blogs. Ideally we will expand beyond this one class, but at this time a single class is the ideal setting to test the limitations & possibilities of independent student blogging.

The list of their blogs is on the right hand side of this blog.

One of the things I like best about it is seeing the excitement they have in writing & publishing on their terms. It is also great to see the focus and dedication they give to their design and layout.

A brief glimpse of the independent writing & design during their class period today...

Blogging is a great way to create a positive digital footprint, a portfolio of independent (and sometimes directed) writing, meet a number of the Common Core learning standards, and maintain a creative outlet they are excited about and proud of. Authentic learning & true publishing beyond the bulletin board...

Google Apps for Students

PS 10 has been a Google Apps for Education (GAFE) school for over 3 years. Teachers have been using Google Apps for email (@ps10.org) and collaboration. This year we have begun to roll it out to students for instructional use. Grades 3-5 have @ps10.org accounts. Grade 2 students will get them closer to June.

No. Students do not have email. Just wanted to get that out of the way.

The following document will be going home with the student's login name and password. These accounts are strictly for school-related purposes so parents are encouraged to look at the types of things students are using Google Apps for. With this login information students will be able to access schoolwork at home, share files with their teacher (without printing), and begin to create an authentic digital portfolio.

Many middle and high schools are using GAFE, as are many colleges & universities. Various governmental agencies are using Google Apps as well. Having PS 10 students use Google Apps puts them at the forefront of a technology used globally on a daily basis.

Students will also be issued, via their Google Drives, and will review in class, the PS 10 Student Code of Ethics with Digital Tools and @PS10.org Accounts.

Feel free to contact Mr. Casal with questions or concerns at any time.

All documents related to PS 10's GAFE platform can be found here.