New Literacies in Action

I enjoyed reading Chapter 2 of New Literacies in Action beause Parma is where I am from. It was interesting to read about the Arts Seminar and how it developed. I really like the idea of it, especially the coteaching. I think that three teachers' minds are better than just one. I thought it was so awesome that the students used alternative texts and communications to learn in this course. I would have loved to be a part of something like this! I was disappointed to read that it is no longer offered at Parma High.

I also really liked the project that Clarence Fisher did with his students, mentioned in Chapter 3. I thought it was a really cool idea to have his students work and collaborate with other students in the Netherlands. Last semester, those of us in Dr. Gershon's class were able to do something similar to this with Education students in Greece. I thought it was really interesting to be able to communicate and talk about ideas with others from another part of the world. I would love to be able to do something like this with my students some day.

Film Festival

Yesterday I went to the Film Festival. I was going to go to the Film Slam but because it was sold out, I decided to see one of the "adult films." I saw "It's Not Me, I Swear" and it was awesome! I couldn't believe how much I enojoyed it. Before the film actually started, the artistic director of the film festival came out to welcome us. He said that this film was by far his favorite one in the whole festival. At first, I thought he probably says that before every film to kind of build it up. But, I now know that he wasn't kidding because this film was so funny, yet serious at the same time. I guess it was a good thing that the slam was sold out, because I loved the film I went to! If any of you are going this week and you have the opportunity to see this one, I highly recommend it.

Wiki

I have never heard of a "wiki" before yesterday's class. I think the idea is really cool because as teachers, we will need resources like this! I am doing "Of Mice and Men" and I am happy I picked that novel because I have actually read it! It has been a while though, so I might have to skim it over again for ideas. I haven't read a lot of the novels on the wiki, so I am happy that I will be able to get a feel for each one when this assignment is completed.

Today I am going to work and I am hoping it will stop raining.

Film

I noticed a few others have posted the link to the film-related article that was due last class. I forgot to post mine, so here it is http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118000636.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 It is about the Jonas Brothers and how their movie is doing. I have yet to see the film, but I might just wait till it comes out in video stores!

I am really excited to go to the Film Festival. My two friends and I are going to make a day out of it. We are going to the Film Slam in the morning, then shopping at Tower City, then eat at the Hard Rock Cafe. My one friend is from Michigan and hasn't ever been to Tower City! I haven't been downtown in a long time either, so I am excited! I am also excited for Spring Break. I am sure all of us need it!

Speaking of film... Stephanie Schmitt, I tried to post on your blog today but something on my computer is not set up right, I guess and I couldn't figure it out. Anyways, I wanted to say that I remembered that you included "The Outsiders" in your presentation and last night I rented the movie. I remember my 6th or 7th grade teacher had us read the book and then watch the movie! I would have never remembered that, had I not seen it in your autobiography.