How can I use a Blog in my own class?

I think that a blog would be a great tool to use with my students on many different levels. The first thought that came to me when thinking about the possibilities, is to post a weekly question about something that we are doing in class. The best process for this would be to post a question on Monday and require the students to make a comment by Wednesday (very much like our Master's program). Once that has been completed, as a class we can revisit all of the their thoughts on Thursday and have an organized discussion from there. By doing a blog this way, I feel that the students who do not share on a regular basis will feel more comfortable discussing their thoughts. Also, it will give them a different opportunity to validate points they were trying to make earlier. I think it will enhance any lesson that is previously taught because they will be revisiting a concept. Any time a student has multiple exposure to a topic they are more likely to retain the information. I really like the idea of having a blog to enhance lessons taught earlier in the day, or the previous week. However, a blog would also be an excellent tool for a pre-assessment. It would give them an opportunity to show me what they already know and what they might want to learn. I am excited to incorporate a blog into my classroom next fall.

As a 4th grade teacher, my students are use to having computer and internet access. Having a classroom blog will give the students a chance to explore online communication. Not having much experience with online communication, this would be a great opportunity to introduce them into that world. I am sure that most of the students would be very excited about this new opportunity.