Blog Post 4

I am very interested in using the computer to create concept maps and outlines. I mentioned in my last post my interest in using Inspiration in my teaching, but I think that outlines, concept maps, etc, are very helpful to understanding, not just how to write a paper but to understand how a story is written. I am interested in teaching English and I think that this sort of understanding is essential to understanding the authors’ intent. I also think that diagrams, drawings, sculptures, and the like are helpful to students understanding, especially students who aren’t particularly adept readers.
I think that, because of this, I would absolutely encourage my students to make outlines and keep diagrams. I have not yet determined if I would want it to be for a grade, but I think I would like it to be for a participation grade. I think that concept mapping would be a great class project, especially for a novel.
I think that coming to an understanding of how to do a faster Google search was incredibly helpful to my career as a teacher. Doing the Web Hunt assignment helped me to realize how valuable of a resource the internet is for teaching. It actually made me really excited about making tests and lessons and worksheets because I’m discovering just how simple it will be thanks to what I’ve been taught.