Marie+Swift

=Using Blogging as the Backbone of your Classroom=

An interactive website called a Blog can be the backbone of your class, library or learning centre. During the breakout session, come and see how a blog can be a valuable communication tool which enhances the skills that are crucial for your learners.

First explore the “**Why**”. Dive in with me as we discuss how the authentic audience of a blog can be a strong motivator for your students. Blogs are great for building a sense of community within your class, by connecting with families, and through collaborations with other classes anywhere in the world! The flexibility of blogging allows differentiation for students as well as for you! The degree of student independence, curriculum integration, and opportunities for assessment are all incredibly variable and can evolve gradually over time.

Next, we will look at the “**How**”. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to tinker. At the Minds on Media session you will get support to begin to build your own blog or expand on one you’ve already started. Just as you will differentiate the experience for your students, you will have many options, tools and resources to explore. (Bring along some earbuds since you may choose to watch videos as part of your differentiated learning.)

**Your mission (should you choose to accept it)**, is to browse my suggested "Menu" of tools (scroll down to the bottom of the page) that you might choose to use during the Minds on Media session ...and get a head start by making a choice. I've linked information below about the benefits of each of the blogging tools I have suggested. **The support resources for each tool will be added later. If you have any questions or comments, please click on the TodaysMeet chat below to connect with our conversation.**

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 * Some Blogging Tools Available:**

media type="custom" key="26430468" width="110" height="110" This video explains the benefits of the Edublog platform.

Click on the image (used with permission) above to read about the benefits of using Kidblog.

Click on the image (used with permission) above to read about the benefits of using Weebly (For Education).

=Blogger Features=

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Marie Swift @mswift