Friday, January 9, 2009
My 8th grade students are required to read independently every day. They spend the first 10-15 minutes of every class period reading their self-selected novels, and of course they are also encouraged to read outside of class. Throughout the quarter they have reader response prompts that they respond to, and at least once per quarter they are required to write a book review and record it as a podcast. These assignments not only encourage them to reflect on their reading, but will also enable them to use the technology skills they have acquired over the past three years and share their book with others when their podcasts are presented. This is the first year I have approached independent reading this way, and I have to admit that my students really seem to be enjoying it. It is a great way to enhance our independent reading program and show off the students' technology skills at the same time!
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Terri, this really sounds interesting and it brings a couple of questions to mind. First, do you have a rubric the students use for their podcast or do you allow creativity ot reign? The other question is about collaborating and commenting. Do the students listen to other podcasts and comment on them? How does this work for you?
ReplyDeleteAnita, yes I have a rubric with guidelines the students must follow. They first complete a graphic organizer, then word process their book review. Once the writing pieces are complete they have to find at least 10 pictures that will enhance their book review. Then students are ready to record. When everyone is finished we hook up the projector and they present them to the class. I grade them using the rubric as they are presenting. After each presentation students in the audience can ask questions about the book. the students enjoy this activity and usually hear about a good book or two that they might like to read for their next independent reading assignment.
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