Weblog Entry by: April Moore In Weblog April's Blog modified at Dec 5, 2007 01:47 PM
Published on Dec 05,2007 01:47 PM

Starting a Blog

This is a rather large step for me in starting a blog or "web log" or online journal. As were many of my friends growing up, I was taught to keep my private thoughts and reflections, well, private. To the point that my pretty, pink diary that I used for years (est. 6-10 years old) had a mini padlock with a key kept in a super-secret location.

The concept of reflecting is not new, however, and many research studies have shown this to be an effective tool in the classroom. As the teacher reflects aloud, students learn and even "see" the process behind-the-scenes. This is a great way to "apprentice" our students to think critically and master whatever content is being taught. I am a strong supporter of the "Reading Apprenticeship" model developed by West Ed. This model incorporates metacognition not only from the perspective of the teacher, but also having the students use metacognition. They "think aloud" and "talk to the text." This is a great way for them to practice this powerful skill and also helps the teacher to monitor and check for understanding (i.e. "Oh, that's why they're coming up with this answer on the test....").

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