Friday, December 14, 2007
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
PLN-26
Teen pregnancies had been dropping since 1991. However, in recent years, the decline had steadily slowed, and between 2005 and 2006, the rate of teen pregnancies had risen 3%. In Teen births up for first time in 15 years from CNN.com, doctors and other professionals are trying to discover the cause for the increase in teen pregnancies.
This article matters to me because, though I believe in abstinence, many young girls my age don't. The new statistics have been based on age groups of girls between 15 and 19 years old, which I am just on the borderline of. I think it is a little scary that girls my age having sex, and getting pregnant from boys who probably aren't going to be much help when they find out they are going to be a father at 16.
This article relates to the world, because it does, in fact, discuss a problem our nation is having. Many believe that the increase in teen pregnancies is due mainly to the fact that most schools teach abstinence-only health classes, instead of teaching students how to properly use condoms and other birth-control. This thinking came up after a nation wide test showed that schools that have comprehensive sex health classes have smaller rates of teen pregnancy than those states which teach abstinence only.
As I write about in a previous post, I don't think teaching girls about birth-control will solve the problem of teen pregnancy. I believe that, by teaching teens about birth-control, we are only encouraging them to have sex. Condoms and other birth-control only work 90% percent of the time, and I know a woman who got pregnant even after both she and her husband used 2 forms of birth control. By telling teens that they will be protected by birth-control, we are only telling them "Well, you can dink around as much as you want, just don't forget your condom." Abstinence only is important if we want to prevent teen pregnancy. Some teens will be unwilling to learn and listen to their teachers when they talk about how badly having a baby at our age can affect us.
We can talk to some teens all we want about abstinence, but some will never listen. We can't just give up and start teaching them that sex before marriage is okay, as long as you use birth-control. Even though teen pregnancy will always be a problem, I believe it is important that we still teach students to wait until they are married to have sex. Quite honestly, I can't imagine being a mom at my age, can you?
This article matters to me because, though I believe in abstinence, many young girls my age don't. The new statistics have been based on age groups of girls between 15 and 19 years old, which I am just on the borderline of. I think it is a little scary that girls my age having sex, and getting pregnant from boys who probably aren't going to be much help when they find out they are going to be a father at 16.
This article relates to the world, because it does, in fact, discuss a problem our nation is having. Many believe that the increase in teen pregnancies is due mainly to the fact that most schools teach abstinence-only health classes, instead of teaching students how to properly use condoms and other birth-control. This thinking came up after a nation wide test showed that schools that have comprehensive sex health classes have smaller rates of teen pregnancy than those states which teach abstinence only.
As I write about in a previous post, I don't think teaching girls about birth-control will solve the problem of teen pregnancy. I believe that, by teaching teens about birth-control, we are only encouraging them to have sex. Condoms and other birth-control only work 90% percent of the time, and I know a woman who got pregnant even after both she and her husband used 2 forms of birth control. By telling teens that they will be protected by birth-control, we are only telling them "Well, you can dink around as much as you want, just don't forget your condom." Abstinence only is important if we want to prevent teen pregnancy. Some teens will be unwilling to learn and listen to their teachers when they talk about how badly having a baby at our age can affect us.
We can talk to some teens all we want about abstinence, but some will never listen. We can't just give up and start teaching them that sex before marriage is okay, as long as you use birth-control. Even though teen pregnancy will always be a problem, I believe it is important that we still teach students to wait until they are married to have sex. Quite honestly, I can't imagine being a mom at my age, can you?
Sunday, December 9, 2007
PLN-25
With seven babies coming in within twelve hours of each other, Ochsner Medical Center was a busy place last Tuesday. In First triplets, then quadruplets from CNN.com, Pamela Kocke and Alisha Murphy gave birth to healthy babies on Tuesday, December 4Th.
This article relates to me because, even though there are no triplets, or quadruplets in my family, I thought it was absolutely amazing that seven babies could be born to two mothers with only twelve hours between the two of them. I was also delighted by the fact that all of the babies were born naturally, especially when the odds of naturally born triplets is about one in 8,000. Both the Murphy and Kocke babies were born within 5 weeks of the 37 weeks that is considered full term, which I thought was really great.
This article relates to the world because, triplets and quadruplets are very rare, and when all three (or four) are born healthy and naturally, I consider it to be a miracle. All of the babies were born between 3 to 4 pounds, a healthy weight for premature babies. With all of our technology, the doctors who helped deliver Alisha's quadruplets and Pamela's triplets are very confident that the babies will do just fine.
I was so happy to hear that all of the babies were born healthy, as my sister had a baby a few years ago, and even one baby was a stretch for her. So many premature babies are unhealthy and barely 2 pounds, but all of the Kocke boys and Murphy girls were born with a reasonable weight for premature babies. C-sections are uncomfortable for mothers to recover from, but so many doctors lean towards them nowadays. I realize this may not seem like the most important news, but I was so happy that all of these babies were born healthy and naturally, and in a few weeks, they will go home to loving happy families.
This article relates to me because, even though there are no triplets, or quadruplets in my family, I thought it was absolutely amazing that seven babies could be born to two mothers with only twelve hours between the two of them. I was also delighted by the fact that all of the babies were born naturally, especially when the odds of naturally born triplets is about one in 8,000. Both the Murphy and Kocke babies were born within 5 weeks of the 37 weeks that is considered full term, which I thought was really great.
This article relates to the world because, triplets and quadruplets are very rare, and when all three (or four) are born healthy and naturally, I consider it to be a miracle. All of the babies were born between 3 to 4 pounds, a healthy weight for premature babies. With all of our technology, the doctors who helped deliver Alisha's quadruplets and Pamela's triplets are very confident that the babies will do just fine.
I was so happy to hear that all of the babies were born healthy, as my sister had a baby a few years ago, and even one baby was a stretch for her. So many premature babies are unhealthy and barely 2 pounds, but all of the Kocke boys and Murphy girls were born with a reasonable weight for premature babies. C-sections are uncomfortable for mothers to recover from, but so many doctors lean towards them nowadays. I realize this may not seem like the most important news, but I was so happy that all of these babies were born healthy and naturally, and in a few weeks, they will go home to loving happy families.
Presentation Evaluation
I was a little shaky this time around. I got a lot of comments on more eye contact, and I could tell that I definetly need to work on that. I could feel my voice quivering for most of the presentation, so I need to work on keeping my voice at a steadier, louder pace. I think it went a little better this time, but I realize some of my blogs were a little depressing (for which I apologize) but they were the ones that impacted me the most. I still have a lot to work on as far as presenting goes, but I think I have definetly improved since my last presentation.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
PLn-24
Columbine; a tragic memory in many of our minds. Though I was very young, and my family disinclined to let me watch the news discussing it; I remember the look on my sisters' faces as they watch the horrors of what happened that day unveiled in the news. I remember going to school and having a moment of silence for the 12 students (most of which were later buried in the cemetery across from my school) and 1 teacher who were killed. In Teacher arrested for pro-Columbine blog post from CNN, James Buss did not view the shooting as a tragedy. Rather, he celebrated the men who caused so much hurt, and so much death that sad day.
This article relates to the world because, since then, many other school shootings have happened, to me, (and my opinion may be bias due to he fact that Columbine was from my own district) Columbine was the most tragic. So many lives were lost. Innocent students who had nothing to do with the troubles of the teens who murdered 13 people before taking their own lives. Whenever a school shooting occurs, the reminder of what happened at Columbine is brought up. Every school shooting since then has had headlines and contain phrases like "Another Columbine" or "A Columbine-Like Attack". Columbine affected the world, even if all it did was give reporters a more interesting headline.
This article relates to me because, though, as I stated earlier, I was not very informed on the subject as a child, the memory of the discussion we had at school that day still haunts me. I remember getting out of the car that morning and seeing my sister's eyes well up as she drove away. Every year, as we sit in our classrooms respectfully in that moment of silence, I think about what happened at Columbine so many years before. I was barely old enough to understand what was happening, but my sisters, being much older than me, understood all of it. I remember walking into their room and seeing candles lit, and my sisters siting on the floor, praying for peace for the families of the students and teacher who were killed.
12 students and 1 teacher lost their lives that day. James buss, being a teacher himself, should have had more respect for the poor souls who were so cruelly taken that day. "They knew how to deal with the overpaid teacher union thugs. One shot at a time!" he stated in his post. They teacher who reported Buss sad she was disturbed by that last sentence, "One shot at a time,". I too find it utterly disgusting that a teacher would celebrate the deaths of so many innocent people. That a teacher would practically say "good for you!" to the men who caused so much hurt for so many shocks me.
Many opposed arresting Buss. They stood behind the First Amendment. However, one police captain, Toby Netko said, "What happens when you say 'bomb' in an airport? That's free speech, isn't it?" he said. "And people are taken into custody for that all the time." Perhaps Buss' post was not so dangerous that he should be arrested, but what he said was outrageous, and the fact that anyone would celebrate such a terrible thing disgusts me.
This article relates to the world because, since then, many other school shootings have happened, to me, (and my opinion may be bias due to he fact that Columbine was from my own district) Columbine was the most tragic. So many lives were lost. Innocent students who had nothing to do with the troubles of the teens who murdered 13 people before taking their own lives. Whenever a school shooting occurs, the reminder of what happened at Columbine is brought up. Every school shooting since then has had headlines and contain phrases like "Another Columbine" or "A Columbine-Like Attack". Columbine affected the world, even if all it did was give reporters a more interesting headline.
This article relates to me because, though, as I stated earlier, I was not very informed on the subject as a child, the memory of the discussion we had at school that day still haunts me. I remember getting out of the car that morning and seeing my sister's eyes well up as she drove away. Every year, as we sit in our classrooms respectfully in that moment of silence, I think about what happened at Columbine so many years before. I was barely old enough to understand what was happening, but my sisters, being much older than me, understood all of it. I remember walking into their room and seeing candles lit, and my sisters siting on the floor, praying for peace for the families of the students and teacher who were killed.
12 students and 1 teacher lost their lives that day. James buss, being a teacher himself, should have had more respect for the poor souls who were so cruelly taken that day. "They knew how to deal with the overpaid teacher union thugs. One shot at a time!" he stated in his post. They teacher who reported Buss sad she was disturbed by that last sentence, "One shot at a time,". I too find it utterly disgusting that a teacher would celebrate the deaths of so many innocent people. That a teacher would practically say "good for you!" to the men who caused so much hurt for so many shocks me.
Many opposed arresting Buss. They stood behind the First Amendment. However, one police captain, Toby Netko said, "What happens when you say 'bomb' in an airport? That's free speech, isn't it?" he said. "And people are taken into custody for that all the time." Perhaps Buss' post was not so dangerous that he should be arrested, but what he said was outrageous, and the fact that anyone would celebrate such a terrible thing disgusts me.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
PLN-23
Saying "please"; an important concept in many homes. From the minute our children are old enough to talk, to every question they ask us, we say "Now what do you say?". Most children don't catch onto it right away. However, all children do eventually learn. In Mother's lawyer: Child killed for failing to say 'please' from Cnn.com, one man named Royce Clyde Zeigler beat his step-daughter, Riley Ann to death because the two year-old couldn't learn fast enough.
Riley Ann, as I blogged about previously, was a two year old who was found floating in a plastic box after obviously beaten to death. Riley's mother and step-father were arrested after her body was identified. However, it was not until Wednesday, the 28th of November that the true cause of Riley Ann's death was determined. Riley's mother's attorney admitted on Wednesday that "The stepfather of a 2-year-old girl lost control and beat her to death because she wouldn't say "please" and "yes sir,".
This article matters to me because, not only have I written about Riley Ann's brutal death, but because I have a niece about Riley Ann's age, and she too, is learning how to say please. I know how frustrating it is to listen to a little girl say "I want..give me...". However, I love my niece enough to never even think about striking her. My niece is going though a stage that consists of her telling me "no, I don't like you...but get me my blanket." So true, there are times when I scream inside. It is hard to hear your only niece tell you she doesn't like you, and then demand that you get her everything her heart desires. Fortunatly, unlike Royce Zeigler, I know that my niece will grow out of this stage, and that she will learn how to say "please" without us asking her to.
This article relates to the world, because of the mysteries and findings surrounding Riley Ann's murder. When two year-old "Baby Grace" showed up in a plastic box on Galveston Bay, millions of hearts went out to her. Everyone who heard about Riley Ann mourned her brutal killing. Thousands more were disgusted when they heard that the people who should have loved and cared for Riley Ann were the ones who beat her to death.
Royce Zeigler is almost twice my age, and he never learned what I have grasped at age fourteen: babies grow, and they learn. All they need is time, something Riley Ann's parents didn't give her.
Riley Ann, as I blogged about previously, was a two year old who was found floating in a plastic box after obviously beaten to death. Riley's mother and step-father were arrested after her body was identified. However, it was not until Wednesday, the 28th of November that the true cause of Riley Ann's death was determined. Riley's mother's attorney admitted on Wednesday that "The stepfather of a 2-year-old girl lost control and beat her to death because she wouldn't say "please" and "yes sir,".
This article matters to me because, not only have I written about Riley Ann's brutal death, but because I have a niece about Riley Ann's age, and she too, is learning how to say please. I know how frustrating it is to listen to a little girl say "I want..give me...". However, I love my niece enough to never even think about striking her. My niece is going though a stage that consists of her telling me "no, I don't like you...but get me my blanket." So true, there are times when I scream inside. It is hard to hear your only niece tell you she doesn't like you, and then demand that you get her everything her heart desires. Fortunatly, unlike Royce Zeigler, I know that my niece will grow out of this stage, and that she will learn how to say "please" without us asking her to.
This article relates to the world, because of the mysteries and findings surrounding Riley Ann's murder. When two year-old "Baby Grace" showed up in a plastic box on Galveston Bay, millions of hearts went out to her. Everyone who heard about Riley Ann mourned her brutal killing. Thousands more were disgusted when they heard that the people who should have loved and cared for Riley Ann were the ones who beat her to death.
Royce Zeigler is almost twice my age, and he never learned what I have grasped at age fourteen: babies grow, and they learn. All they need is time, something Riley Ann's parents didn't give her.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
PLN-22
Megan Meier was thirteen years old and coping with not only your basic teenage problems, but also with depression and attention deficit disorder. W hen she met Josh, her life changed. Things got better for her, but after Josh end the relationship, things for Megan went downhill. In Neighbor Family Manipulates Suicidal Teen from CBS and CNN (the articles were the same), a fake boy in a young girls life causes more damage than the real thing could.
Thirteen year old, Megan started up a MySpace. Though she was a year too young to have a MySpace, it didn't stop her from making many friends. One of those friends was Josh Evans, a boy who never even existed. Josh was created by the family of a former friend of Megan. The family wanted to see what Megan said about their own daughter. They never realized that when they made Josh end his relationship with Megan, that things would get so out of control.
This article relates to me because so many of my own friends own MySpaces. Though they are all old enough to handle one, at our young ages, we can still be easily manipulated by the people we talk to online. I do not own a MySpace, but I see the talks my friends have with people online, and I can't help but worry that my friends will get so deeply involved with someone that they meet through MySpace, that when the relationship ends, my friends will resort to suicide, like Megan. I know my friends are more sensible than that, but I still fear that I am going to get a call similar to the one Megan's friends must have received when she died in the hospital.
This article relates to the world because MySpaces are very quickly becoming more and more popular, and more and more dangerous for fragile teens. Thousands of teenagers just like my friends have a MySpace. More than half of them get in too deep with the strangers they meet online. MySpaces are one of the easiest and most interesting ways to talk to others, but shouldn't we be concerned that, though there is an age requirement of fourteen years old, thirteen year old girls like Megan are still meeting people like Josh, who only mean to hurt them? The family who manipulated Megan never meant to hurt her like they did, but their intent was to manipulate her and trick her into revealing things they could have found out without leading her into that false sense of security. Because of MySpaces, people all over the world can manipulate young adults, with much more malicious intent in mind.
Teenagers have a need to be social. We love to talk with others, and chat online. We call friends daily and probably couldn't stay sane without doing so. However, when a relationship with someone you have never met, and don't truly know anything about, get so far out of hand that you resort to suicidal thoughts, I have to wonder; is being able to chat 24/7 worth it?
Thirteen year old, Megan started up a MySpace. Though she was a year too young to have a MySpace, it didn't stop her from making many friends. One of those friends was Josh Evans, a boy who never even existed. Josh was created by the family of a former friend of Megan. The family wanted to see what Megan said about their own daughter. They never realized that when they made Josh end his relationship with Megan, that things would get so out of control.
This article relates to me because so many of my own friends own MySpaces. Though they are all old enough to handle one, at our young ages, we can still be easily manipulated by the people we talk to online. I do not own a MySpace, but I see the talks my friends have with people online, and I can't help but worry that my friends will get so deeply involved with someone that they meet through MySpace, that when the relationship ends, my friends will resort to suicide, like Megan. I know my friends are more sensible than that, but I still fear that I am going to get a call similar to the one Megan's friends must have received when she died in the hospital.
This article relates to the world because MySpaces are very quickly becoming more and more popular, and more and more dangerous for fragile teens. Thousands of teenagers just like my friends have a MySpace. More than half of them get in too deep with the strangers they meet online. MySpaces are one of the easiest and most interesting ways to talk to others, but shouldn't we be concerned that, though there is an age requirement of fourteen years old, thirteen year old girls like Megan are still meeting people like Josh, who only mean to hurt them? The family who manipulated Megan never meant to hurt her like they did, but their intent was to manipulate her and trick her into revealing things they could have found out without leading her into that false sense of security. Because of MySpaces, people all over the world can manipulate young adults, with much more malicious intent in mind.
Teenagers have a need to be social. We love to talk with others, and chat online. We call friends daily and probably couldn't stay sane without doing so. However, when a relationship with someone you have never met, and don't truly know anything about, get so far out of hand that you resort to suicidal thoughts, I have to wonder; is being able to chat 24/7 worth it?
Sunday, November 25, 2007
PLN-21
Every year, people go missing, children and disappear, and just a month ago, a baby girl washed up on a Texas shore. In Police identify girl found dead in box; arrest mom and boyfriend from CNN, "Baby Grace" as she could only be known, washed up near Galveston, Texas. She was perhaps 2 or 3 years-old. We had no idea who she was, but finally, she has been identified, and the people who are most likely behind her death have been found and arrested.
This article matters to me because, the first PLN I ever wrote was about a man who went missing on a trail. Many months later, there is still no news on whether or not his identity was ever discovered. It saddened me to know that he could not have a a real funeral. Some family out there would never know what happened to their father, husband, or son. It is comforting to now that, even though people like him may never be discovered, Baby Grace's real name will be on her grave stone.
This article relates to the world because, like Baby Grace, many children and even adults go missing everyday. Their families never know what happened to them, and many of them will never be identified. We never know what happened to cause the death of hundreds of children like "Baby Grace". A melancholy note, I know, but there are hundreds of Baby Graces out there. HUndreds of babies who are never named, and who are never sent home to their families.
The technology of our world can only go so far. Fortunately for Baby Grace, or as the family we finally discovered calls her, Riley Ann; so far was far enough.
This article matters to me because, the first PLN I ever wrote was about a man who went missing on a trail. Many months later, there is still no news on whether or not his identity was ever discovered. It saddened me to know that he could not have a a real funeral. Some family out there would never know what happened to their father, husband, or son. It is comforting to now that, even though people like him may never be discovered, Baby Grace's real name will be on her grave stone.
This article relates to the world because, like Baby Grace, many children and even adults go missing everyday. Their families never know what happened to them, and many of them will never be identified. We never know what happened to cause the death of hundreds of children like "Baby Grace". A melancholy note, I know, but there are hundreds of Baby Graces out there. HUndreds of babies who are never named, and who are never sent home to their families.
The technology of our world can only go so far. Fortunately for Baby Grace, or as the family we finally discovered calls her, Riley Ann; so far was far enough.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
PLN-20
Texting. What a common term nowadays. Almost every teenager has a cell phone by the age of 12, and because of that, texting is now the fastest way to communicate. We text in class, at dinner, during church, at lunch. But the most concerning is that 97% of 460 teens vote that texting while driving is dangerous, but 51% of them admit to doing it. In Steering teens away from texting while at the wheel from the Denver Post, more than 46% percent of teens in Colorado alone are said to text while at the wheel, and 51% admit to talking on the phone while driving.
This article relates to me in many ways. As my plan does not cover it, I do not text regularly, but it does not necessarily stop the text from streaming to me. I often find myself wrapped up by the text my friends send me, even when my mind should be on other things. Many times, my head suddenly impacts with some pole or another because someone had sent me a chain letter via text. If I can be so distracted by texting that I can't even walk correctly, how can texting while driving be safe?
My sister has a cell phone as well, and sends more than 5000 texts a month. I know my sister is smart enough (not to say that others aren't smart, of course) not to text while she is driving, but it is a little scary to think that so many teens out there do not see how dangerous texting at the wheel can be. My sister talks on the phone in the car all the time, but she is 21 and can handle multi tasking. However when I get in the car, the phone is put away, or given to someone else. My sister realizes how dangerous letting your mind stray while on the road can be; and she refuses to put me in danger because she wants to chat with friends.
This article relates to the world in perhaps more ways than it does to me. Thousands of teens send hundreds of texts, and many of them do it when they should be focusing on more important things than when the latest movie is coming out, and who is dumping who. I do not mean to say that these silly topics all teens are ever interested in, but as stereotypical as this sounds, our generation does tend to focus on less important subjects when we shouldn't be. Teens all over the country text, which is fine with me, but when we are driving, that should be our main focus. We shouldn't let our minds wander simple to answer to that small and cheerful "bleep" our cell phones send out every once in a while. One state patrol officer, Ron Watkins gives tickets for careless driving to anyone he catches weaving while texting or talking on the phone. I believe Watkins' action is a great way to prevent more texting and phoning related accidents on the road.
I don't text, nor do I have any desire to be swept up in that chaotic highway of instant messages, but my friends do, and it frightens me to think that teens like us are endangering themselves because of texting. Texting itself is not bad, but I think that it should be kept under control, and should not get in the way of getting yourself safely from point "A" to point "B".
This article relates to me in many ways. As my plan does not cover it, I do not text regularly, but it does not necessarily stop the text from streaming to me. I often find myself wrapped up by the text my friends send me, even when my mind should be on other things. Many times, my head suddenly impacts with some pole or another because someone had sent me a chain letter via text. If I can be so distracted by texting that I can't even walk correctly, how can texting while driving be safe?
My sister has a cell phone as well, and sends more than 5000 texts a month. I know my sister is smart enough (not to say that others aren't smart, of course) not to text while she is driving, but it is a little scary to think that so many teens out there do not see how dangerous texting at the wheel can be. My sister talks on the phone in the car all the time, but she is 21 and can handle multi tasking. However when I get in the car, the phone is put away, or given to someone else. My sister realizes how dangerous letting your mind stray while on the road can be; and she refuses to put me in danger because she wants to chat with friends.
This article relates to the world in perhaps more ways than it does to me. Thousands of teens send hundreds of texts, and many of them do it when they should be focusing on more important things than when the latest movie is coming out, and who is dumping who. I do not mean to say that these silly topics all teens are ever interested in, but as stereotypical as this sounds, our generation does tend to focus on less important subjects when we shouldn't be. Teens all over the country text, which is fine with me, but when we are driving, that should be our main focus. We shouldn't let our minds wander simple to answer to that small and cheerful "bleep" our cell phones send out every once in a while. One state patrol officer, Ron Watkins gives tickets for careless driving to anyone he catches weaving while texting or talking on the phone. I believe Watkins' action is a great way to prevent more texting and phoning related accidents on the road.
I don't text, nor do I have any desire to be swept up in that chaotic highway of instant messages, but my friends do, and it frightens me to think that teens like us are endangering themselves because of texting. Texting itself is not bad, but I think that it should be kept under control, and should not get in the way of getting yourself safely from point "A" to point "B".
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
PLN-19
Every year, veterans take time out of their day to day to come and talk to students like myself about their experiences in war. Every year veterans open up to high school and middle school students, and tell them what it was like to be in the war, and how it feels to watch people around you die. Every year, there are students who come out of it, not even taking in what they have just heard, not even caring. WWII veteran Gen. Jim Hart talks about his struggles with talking about his war past with students in Vets will share their stories with students.
This article relates to the world because every where, not just in our state, veterans share with students. They don't do this to entertain us, or to make us cry, veterans do what they do so that we can learn, and so that we can understand. Many veterans out there feel the same way Hart feels, that students don't really understand, and that many of them, wont really get any thing out of it.
I am not as bad as many teens my age who "aren't sure whether we fought with or against the Germans..." I know which side we fought for, and why we fought. I learn it every year, as do many students, but we never really seem to take it in. I was excited to hear the point of view of so many officers this past Friday, whether they were veterans, or still active duty. Many of my family members fought in the war, but none ever talked to me about it, so I never understood the feelings of the people who were actually there.
I know many of my fellow class mates got nothing out of the officers' speeches, but many of us did. Yes, there are students who don't care, and will never learn to, but the wars our country have been through; and the one we currently face are important. Though Gen. Jim Hart may feel his stomach lurch every time he as to talk to teens about the war, I feel honored that men and women like him are willing to speak out and teach us about the war we face, and the ones we only ever hear about in our text books.
This article relates to the world because every where, not just in our state, veterans share with students. They don't do this to entertain us, or to make us cry, veterans do what they do so that we can learn, and so that we can understand. Many veterans out there feel the same way Hart feels, that students don't really understand, and that many of them, wont really get any thing out of it.
I am not as bad as many teens my age who "aren't sure whether we fought with or against the Germans..." I know which side we fought for, and why we fought. I learn it every year, as do many students, but we never really seem to take it in. I was excited to hear the point of view of so many officers this past Friday, whether they were veterans, or still active duty. Many of my family members fought in the war, but none ever talked to me about it, so I never understood the feelings of the people who were actually there.
I know many of my fellow class mates got nothing out of the officers' speeches, but many of us did. Yes, there are students who don't care, and will never learn to, but the wars our country have been through; and the one we currently face are important. Though Gen. Jim Hart may feel his stomach lurch every time he as to talk to teens about the war, I feel honored that men and women like him are willing to speak out and teach us about the war we face, and the ones we only ever hear about in our text books.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
PLN-18
Out of 1000 girls in Denver, 54.5 will become pregnant between the ages of 15 and 17. To prevent this, Colorado High schools and even some middle schools have started handing out birth control and emergency contraceptive pills to students. In Do schools have birth-control role? in the Denver Post, handing birth control out to schools is focused upon.
This article affects the world in many ways. Drop out rates are affected by teen pregnancy and teen pregnancy is a huge problem in some schools. However, handing out birth control, in the long run, does not stop this problem. Teens are, and always will be sexually active, and although in many cases, birth control does prevent pregnancy, in some cases; it does not. My sister knew a woman who got pregnant after both she and her husband used two types of birth control. Many times, for some reason or another, birth control can malfunction.
The controversial subject of this article really shocked me. I realize that teen pregnancy can be an huge problem in high schools, but I never thought that it might be a problem in middle schools. At that age, most boy still think we have cooties, so the idea that young teens in middle schools are sexually active is really kind of frightening. High schools students are old enough to know what they are getting themselves into, and handing out birth control only encourages them.
When teens know that they can have sex and not get pregnant because their schools are handing out birth control, it doesn't stop them from having sex, it makes them think, "oh, well, now that I am safe..." The reality of it is, we aren't protected students by handing out birth control, we are making them believe that sex before marriage; that sex before graduation, is okay, and that they will never have to face the consequences of it. In all honesty, the consequences of malfunctioning birth control are just as bad as not handing it out at all. We can't do anything about teens sexual lives, except to talk to them and hope that we get through to them.
This article affects the world in many ways. Drop out rates are affected by teen pregnancy and teen pregnancy is a huge problem in some schools. However, handing out birth control, in the long run, does not stop this problem. Teens are, and always will be sexually active, and although in many cases, birth control does prevent pregnancy, in some cases; it does not. My sister knew a woman who got pregnant after both she and her husband used two types of birth control. Many times, for some reason or another, birth control can malfunction.
The controversial subject of this article really shocked me. I realize that teen pregnancy can be an huge problem in high schools, but I never thought that it might be a problem in middle schools. At that age, most boy still think we have cooties, so the idea that young teens in middle schools are sexually active is really kind of frightening. High schools students are old enough to know what they are getting themselves into, and handing out birth control only encourages them.
When teens know that they can have sex and not get pregnant because their schools are handing out birth control, it doesn't stop them from having sex, it makes them think, "oh, well, now that I am safe..." The reality of it is, we aren't protected students by handing out birth control, we are making them believe that sex before marriage; that sex before graduation, is okay, and that they will never have to face the consequences of it. In all honesty, the consequences of malfunctioning birth control are just as bad as not handing it out at all. We can't do anything about teens sexual lives, except to talk to them and hope that we get through to them.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
PLN-17
We all play with technology, in one way or another. Whether its when we make a kick-butt video for our friend's birthday, or when we create a power point for class; we are always cutting and pasting something. In Playing with Culture by Dave Warlick, the idea of cutting and pasting to play with our culture is focused upon.
This article really relates to the world around us. Every where, people, much like Dave's son, use movies like The 300 to make movies, and smaller clips. Even in our own class, we use other people's works to create our wikis, and our blogs. As Dave said, we are playing with our culture. We are using our technology to create new things, to create the amazing videos we view on YouTube, to photo shop the pictures we use on cards and send to our friends.
In many ways, this article really relates to me as well. I can't use videos on my computer, (unfortunately, my technological skills as far as my camera go are....lacking) but I can use photo shop to make funny pictures and covers for the books all of my friends write. I can cut pictures from my favorite movies and send them to my friends when their a little bored.
We all play with our culture, in one way or another. The examples Dave brings up in his post are excellent proof of this, and I really suggest reading Dave's post Playing with Culture if "playing" is something your really interested in.
I watched a lot of television when I was growing up. It was the golden age
of TV, when we told our stories in new ways, broadcasting them as culture to
wide ranging communities. I spent much of my childhood playing these
stories. I would watch Errol Flynn play Robin Hood on our Zenith black and white, and then go directly to my fathers woodworking shop in the basement to find scrap wood and nails fashion it into a sword. I’d spend hours pretending to be the bandit knight of Sherwood Forest — playing the story, playing with my culture.
This article really relates to the world around us. Every where, people, much like Dave's son, use movies like The 300 to make movies, and smaller clips. Even in our own class, we use other people's works to create our wikis, and our blogs. As Dave said, we are playing with our culture. We are using our technology to create new things, to create the amazing videos we view on YouTube, to photo shop the pictures we use on cards and send to our friends.
In many ways, this article really relates to me as well. I can't use videos on my computer, (unfortunately, my technological skills as far as my camera go are....lacking) but I can use photo shop to make funny pictures and covers for the books all of my friends write. I can cut pictures from my favorite movies and send them to my friends when their a little bored.
We all play with our culture, in one way or another. The examples Dave brings up in his post are excellent proof of this, and I really suggest reading Dave's post Playing with Culture if "playing" is something your really interested in.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
PLN-16
Having a fire alarm in the house boosts your odds of suriving in a fire by 51 percent. One 70 year old woman by the name of Debbie Hopewell was unaware of the fact that the deadliest fires occure in our sleep. In Barking dog dies in fire after saving elderly owner, the Rocky Mountain News talks about how one dog died warning Mrs. Hopewell of the deadly fire that had erupted in her kitchen.
This article really relates to me. I had always assumed that everyone had at least one fire alarm in their house. Now I realize that some people are not so safe in their homes. The german sheperd mix that died saving his owner's life reminded me of my own dog. 6 years ago, on the 4th of July, some neighbors were firing fireworks. One of the firecrackers landed in my yard and a fire started. If my dog hadn't started barking, the fire would have continued to burn up my lawn and probably destroyed my house. This article really made me remember how grateful we have to be for our petsat times, especially when we are in positions like Debbie Hopewell.
Barking dog dies in fire after saving elderly owner affects the world, though maybe as not as much as it affected me. Fire alarms are so important to our safety and it frightens me that there are people out there that do not have that comfort. Fire alarms help insure our safety, but so do the animals we keep in our homes.
After reading this article, I can't help but think, "thank goodness for the creation of fire alarms, but thank the Lord for the creation of dogs!"
This article really relates to me. I had always assumed that everyone had at least one fire alarm in their house. Now I realize that some people are not so safe in their homes. The german sheperd mix that died saving his owner's life reminded me of my own dog. 6 years ago, on the 4th of July, some neighbors were firing fireworks. One of the firecrackers landed in my yard and a fire started. If my dog hadn't started barking, the fire would have continued to burn up my lawn and probably destroyed my house. This article really made me remember how grateful we have to be for our petsat times, especially when we are in positions like Debbie Hopewell.
Barking dog dies in fire after saving elderly owner affects the world, though maybe as not as much as it affected me. Fire alarms are so important to our safety and it frightens me that there are people out there that do not have that comfort. Fire alarms help insure our safety, but so do the animals we keep in our homes.
After reading this article, I can't help but think, "thank goodness for the creation of fire alarms, but thank the Lord for the creation of dogs!"
PLN-15
Every year, hundreds of babies find homes through Adoption Options of Aurora. Juliana was one such baby. She like so many others was adopted by a loving family after six months of parenting classes and being monitored. The birth mother has the final say in the adoption match, and luckily for Juliana and 21 other babies, the mothers were willing to let 21 couples take home their children. In Happy families grow by 44 feet by Betsy Lehndorff, in the Rocky Mountain News the idea of a growing, happy family is focused upon.
This article and everything it stands for really touched me. The idea that little babies like Juliana can find loving homes through Adoption Options of Aurora is really amazing. After reading about one boy named Micheal Tate, who after 19 years of foster home to foster home, attacked and killed a man due to psychological problems, it is comforting to know that so many more children are adopted into loving homes.
Happy families grow by 44 feet relates to the world in so many ways. I talked about abortion in my last PLN, and I believe that agencies like Adoption Options of Aurora are excellent alternatives to abortion. Thousands of babies are put up for adoption every year, most of which are taken into loving, healthy homes.
Happy Families really do grow, and it touches my heart that so many of those happy families are willing to let a new baby into their lives.
This article and everything it stands for really touched me. The idea that little babies like Juliana can find loving homes through Adoption Options of Aurora is really amazing. After reading about one boy named Micheal Tate, who after 19 years of foster home to foster home, attacked and killed a man due to psychological problems, it is comforting to know that so many more children are adopted into loving homes.
Happy families grow by 44 feet relates to the world in so many ways. I talked about abortion in my last PLN, and I believe that agencies like Adoption Options of Aurora are excellent alternatives to abortion. Thousands of babies are put up for adoption every year, most of which are taken into loving, healthy homes.
Happy Families really do grow, and it touches my heart that so many of those happy families are willing to let a new baby into their lives.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
PLN 14
My Space, Blogger, Face Book; they all have one thing in common: personal information. Everyday, people post information on the web without even realizing that even the smallest detail can be used to Google someone. Create your online profile by Jeff Utech focuses on safety on the web.
Create your online profile relates to the world in many ways. Thousands of people out there have my spaces. A lot of those people are just trying chat with friends, however, many of those people are out to hurt others, in one way or another. Everyone hears about kids who get attacked by online predators on the news but everyone figures "nah, that will never happen to me, I am careful." But a lot of times, we aren't half as careful as we think we are. We never really grasp how important it is to be careful about using personal information on the web. One of Jeff's students said, “We know all this stuff is there, we just pretend it isn't.” We have all been chewed out by an adult because we said to much about ourselves on the web.
This article really related to me. I was always paranoid that someone track me down using information they got on the web, so I never got a my space. It even took a lot of convincing before I decided to get an email. A lot of my friends have my spaces, and it scares me to think that people can type in their name and get listings on Google. I was always scared to give out too much information, so I never let my friends talk about me on their my spaces. I was always "AL" or some other nick name that I am sure made people think, "what kind of freak show names their kid THAT?" when my friends posted things about me.
Now that I have a blogger account, I am a little less paranoid. I can type in my name and find listings, and in a way, that still scares me, but I know that I am smart enough not to put any information about myself that could ever help someone I don't know find me.
Create your online profile relates to the world in many ways. Thousands of people out there have my spaces. A lot of those people are just trying chat with friends, however, many of those people are out to hurt others, in one way or another. Everyone hears about kids who get attacked by online predators on the news but everyone figures "nah, that will never happen to me, I am careful." But a lot of times, we aren't half as careful as we think we are. We never really grasp how important it is to be careful about using personal information on the web. One of Jeff's students said, “We know all this stuff is there, we just pretend it isn't.” We have all been chewed out by an adult because we said to much about ourselves on the web.
This article really related to me. I was always paranoid that someone track me down using information they got on the web, so I never got a my space. It even took a lot of convincing before I decided to get an email. A lot of my friends have my spaces, and it scares me to think that people can type in their name and get listings on Google. I was always scared to give out too much information, so I never let my friends talk about me on their my spaces. I was always "AL" or some other nick name that I am sure made people think, "what kind of freak show names their kid THAT?" when my friends posted things about me.
Now that I have a blogger account, I am a little less paranoid. I can type in my name and find listings, and in a way, that still scares me, but I know that I am smart enough not to put any information about myself that could ever help someone I don't know find me.
Monday, October 29, 2007
PLN 13
Abortion is often times, a way many teen girls get out of early motherhood. For those who feel they are not ready for a baby, it is a way out of unhappiness. There are hundreds of people out there who stand opposed to it. In Construction exec's home target of abortion protests, many anti-abortionists stood outside a construction executive's home after learning that he was to expand a building that would house health clinics and administrative offices after it's completion in about a year.
After reading this article in the Rocky Mountain News, I was really shocked. I am firm believer that there is always a way, and that abortion is not it. However, the protest in front of Gary Meggison's (the construction executive) house, I believe, was ridiculous and uncalled for. Meggison never said he supported abortion, and the new clinic he was hired to build may well be just a job, not a statement, to him. I strongly disagree with abortion, and I think things should be changed concerning it, but the protesting of a construction executive's house, in the long-run, will solve absolutely nothing. If anti-abortionists really want to make a difference, they should talk to the men and women who run the clinics that provide abortion, not the men who build them.
The points raised in this article affect the world as much as they affect me. Hundreds, if not thousands of women a year get abortions, and millions of others don't approve of it. There are protests and meetings about it, but nothing really ever gets changed, because the dunder heads who disagree with it don't protest to abortion providers, they protest to the contractors.
Women will always get abortions, and others will always stand against them, but until we start talking to the right people, there will never be any change. Nothing, except for perhaps, the sayings on the picket signs.
After reading this article in the Rocky Mountain News, I was really shocked. I am firm believer that there is always a way, and that abortion is not it. However, the protest in front of Gary Meggison's (the construction executive) house, I believe, was ridiculous and uncalled for. Meggison never said he supported abortion, and the new clinic he was hired to build may well be just a job, not a statement, to him. I strongly disagree with abortion, and I think things should be changed concerning it, but the protesting of a construction executive's house, in the long-run, will solve absolutely nothing. If anti-abortionists really want to make a difference, they should talk to the men and women who run the clinics that provide abortion, not the men who build them.
The points raised in this article affect the world as much as they affect me. Hundreds, if not thousands of women a year get abortions, and millions of others don't approve of it. There are protests and meetings about it, but nothing really ever gets changed, because the dunder heads who disagree with it don't protest to abortion providers, they protest to the contractors.
Women will always get abortions, and others will always stand against them, but until we start talking to the right people, there will never be any change. Nothing, except for perhaps, the sayings on the picket signs.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Self Evaluation of Presentation
I think I did pretty well on my presentation. I could feel myself shaking, but since I haven't looked at my comments yet, I have no idea if anyone else noticed. My topic started up a good conversation on filtering, so that was encouraging. I can't even remember if I used any filler words, (I certainly hope not, because filler words drive me crazy!) but I think my voice was a little shaky. I try not to listen to my own voice, because I focus on my mistakes, thus making more... I still need to look at my comments, but I didn't crash or burn like I thought I would. I feel pretty confident in my presentation, I hope everyone enjoyed it!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
PLN 12
Technology is slowly becoming more and more common in classrooms. Things like web cams, laptops, and wiki pages are now regular learning tool in many schools. In Wikified Personal Philosophy Statements, Mr. Fisch talks about incorporating personal wiki pages in classrooms.
This article relates to our classroom because we too are using wiki pages in our class. Kristen Kakos' class is using wiki to relate to their readings and in-class activities.
Wikified Personal Philosophy Statements relates to the world because technology is slowly embedding itself into classrooms all over the world. Wiki pages can be used, not only in our English classes, but in other classes as well. All over the world, wiki pages can be used in science, English, and social studies classes, not only to help students learn, but also to help personalize learning environments. Like Mr. Fisch I like what Mrs. Kakos writes on her blog:
This article relates to our classroom because we too are using wiki pages in our class. Kristen Kakos' class is using wiki to relate to their readings and in-class activities.
In my American Literature classes, my students each formed a personalOur class is using wiki pages to learn and teach more about the book Inherit The Wind. The wiki pages are to help us understand more about the Butler Act, and to learn that Charles Darwin was did not just come up with his Theory of Evolution because he didn't want to believe that there is a god. Like Mrs. Kakos' class, we are using wiki pages to personalize our learning environments.
philosophy statement that will form the focus for the semester, and
perhaps even for the year. Many of their philosophy statements explore the
root of evil, the impetus for rebellion and/or obedience, the destructive
force of fear, the significance of vulnerability, and other concepts that
emerge from early American literature.
Wikified Personal Philosophy Statements relates to the world because technology is slowly embedding itself into classrooms all over the world. Wiki pages can be used, not only in our English classes, but in other classes as well. All over the world, wiki pages can be used in science, English, and social studies classes, not only to help students learn, but also to help personalize learning environments. Like Mr. Fisch I like what Mrs. Kakos writes on her blog:
I like using wiki spaces because the technology doesn't get in the way; aI had never thought that wiki pages could ever be useful in a classroom, but after our Inherit The Wind wikis, I realize that wiki pages are so helpful in a classroom. We can personalize our learning in a way that is fun and interesting, but the necessary material is still being learned.
wiki space is essentially a 21st century folder that allows for almost any type
of media, emphasizes professionalism, encourages feedback, and lasts as long as
you want it to, unlike a notebook that you clear out at the end of each
semester. We'll keep coming back to the wiki spaces throughout the semester and
adding to them, and hopefully by the end of the semester they'll be able to look
over their work and their ideas say, "THIS is the little piece of my soul that
grew in American Literature," whether they focused on hope, goodness, evil, or
any other personal topic that found its way out of a seemingly boring Puritan
text.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
PLN 11
AIDS has always been a threat. We have no medication for it, no vaccine, just the hope that we ourselves don't catch it. We think AIDS is a problem in the U.S., but in South Africa 'losing Aids battle' , it states that in Africa, somewhere between 30% and 50% of the population in Africa have been infected with HIV/AIDS. We don’t really see how deadly something really is until we have either experienced it ourselves, or lost someone to it. To most of us, AIDS seems like a problem to other countries, but a great deal of us never stop to think about how AIDS could affect us in the U.S.
This article really touched me. I did a lot of research on AIDS and I can't begin to imagine how hard it is to find out you have it. Because of the number of people who are affected with AIDS, the number of AIDS orphans has risen to 1.5 million. I had never thought that so many people could die from one disease. I always thought; if you don’t want to catch it, don’t sleep with someone who has it. Now I realize that it isn’t quite that simple. The disease itself takes years to run its course. Some people live for several years not knowing that they have caught AIDS. AIDS breaks down your immune system so small things like a cold can turn into Tuberculosis.
South Africa 'losing Aids battle' Affects the world for many of the same reasons, but also many more. No one ever really stops to think about how many people are really dying from this disease. Most of us prefer not to think about it at all, AIDS and the thought that so many people are affected by it scares us. AIDS is killing people all over the world, and orphaning twice as many. Our scientists sped all day working to find a cure for this disease that has orphaned so many, and ruined the lives of over 1.5 million people.
AIDS affects each and every person living on earth. Some are afraid to pass it on to their children, some have died from it, and the rest of us can only hope that they find a cure, and that we can save children in Africa from ever having to face losing a parent to it.
This article really touched me. I did a lot of research on AIDS and I can't begin to imagine how hard it is to find out you have it. Because of the number of people who are affected with AIDS, the number of AIDS orphans has risen to 1.5 million. I had never thought that so many people could die from one disease. I always thought; if you don’t want to catch it, don’t sleep with someone who has it. Now I realize that it isn’t quite that simple. The disease itself takes years to run its course. Some people live for several years not knowing that they have caught AIDS. AIDS breaks down your immune system so small things like a cold can turn into Tuberculosis.
South Africa 'losing Aids battle' Affects the world for many of the same reasons, but also many more. No one ever really stops to think about how many people are really dying from this disease. Most of us prefer not to think about it at all, AIDS and the thought that so many people are affected by it scares us. AIDS is killing people all over the world, and orphaning twice as many. Our scientists sped all day working to find a cure for this disease that has orphaned so many, and ruined the lives of over 1.5 million people.
AIDS affects each and every person living on earth. Some are afraid to pass it on to their children, some have died from it, and the rest of us can only hope that they find a cure, and that we can save children in Africa from ever having to face losing a parent to it.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
PLN 10
We never really stop to think about how things affect us. Never, do we stop to think, "I wonder how this experience will affect my life." or "What did I learn here?" Personal journeys don't really matter to us, we just think, oh, that was fun, can't wait until next year. In A Google Earth Odyssey , Mr. Fisch talks about our class's personal journey project on Google Earth. Personal journeys help every one of us to grow into the responsible (or not so responsible) members of society that we are. Personal journeys teach us things about ourselves that we never knew, even if we don't recognize it at first.
This project really mattered to me. Before this project, I had never really thought about how the places I have visited have affected the way I live my life. I had never stopped to think about the life lessons I learned at Chepstow Castle or Stonehenge. This project really made me think about my life and what I was learning along the way. When I was writing down all the places I have visited, I realized just how much all of the places I have visited have helped me to grow as a person.
The personal journey project relates to the world because no one ever stops to think about what they learned that day. Personal journeys affect our daily lives in so many ways, but until you really think about the places you have visited and the experiences you have had, the fact that personal journeys are so important doesn't really register.We all learn something from the different places we visit. Whether it was in that time in the grocery store when you saw the temper tantrum in aisle 3 and thought, "no way is my kid going to ever act like that." or the time you learned about patience from sitting in a line for three hours. Every little thing that we witness in our life time teaches us more about ourselves and how to live our lives to the fullest.
Personal journeys never register as ways we learn to live happily or places where we learn more about ourselves in an instant than we could otherwise in a lifetime, but the places we go and the things we do there are what shape and mold our minds. Personal journeys help us to become the greatest we can be, and to do things we never thought we could. Personal journeys are what make us, well, us.
This project really mattered to me. Before this project, I had never really thought about how the places I have visited have affected the way I live my life. I had never stopped to think about the life lessons I learned at Chepstow Castle or Stonehenge. This project really made me think about my life and what I was learning along the way. When I was writing down all the places I have visited, I realized just how much all of the places I have visited have helped me to grow as a person.
The personal journey project relates to the world because no one ever stops to think about what they learned that day. Personal journeys affect our daily lives in so many ways, but until you really think about the places you have visited and the experiences you have had, the fact that personal journeys are so important doesn't really register.We all learn something from the different places we visit. Whether it was in that time in the grocery store when you saw the temper tantrum in aisle 3 and thought, "no way is my kid going to ever act like that." or the time you learned about patience from sitting in a line for three hours. Every little thing that we witness in our life time teaches us more about ourselves and how to live our lives to the fullest.
Personal journeys never register as ways we learn to live happily or places where we learn more about ourselves in an instant than we could otherwise in a lifetime, but the places we go and the things we do there are what shape and mold our minds. Personal journeys help us to become the greatest we can be, and to do things we never thought we could. Personal journeys are what make us, well, us.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
PLN 9
When we type on our handy laptops during class each day, we never stop to think about filters, or censors. That is, until we get blocked from the ever popular website, YouTube. On Even More On Filtering by Karl Fisch, this idea of responsibility on the web is focused on.
I focused my last PLN on filtering of websites like YouTube as well, but like Mr. Fisch said:
"Okay, I’m about done with this topic, I promise. But I keep finding more and more thoughtful folks talking about filtering and responsibility and what/how/why we should be teaching our students about this..."
I find it interesting that, no matter how old we get, and how much we mature (well, most of us) we can't be trusted enough to take filters off websites that most people our age use every day. It isn't fair that we should all be punished because a few students choose to abuse their web privileges. Websites like YouTube do not even allow anything to be concerned about to be posted, and yet, it is blocked to us. Everywhere, websites are being blocked to students. I realize that this is for our own safety, but we can never learn to be responsible decision makers if we are never given the chance to try.
Carolyn Foote stated this perfectly:
“Swimming pools can be dangerous for children. To protect them, one can install locks, put up fences, and deploy pool alarms. All these measures are helpful, but by far the most important thing that one can do for one’s children is to teach them to swim.”
Censors are set up to protect us from websites that might be "offensive", but honestly, no student will ever know anything about the web, or even know how to make wise decisions when surfing the web if we are never given the opportunity to chose for ourselves. I believe in blocking pornography sites, but otherwise, if we never get the opportunity to decide for ourselves, "maybe this website isn't appropriate for me" in school, how can we be expected to know what to do when the censors are gone, and there are no teachers to say "no" when we go to a filtered website on accident?
Friday, October 5, 2007
PLN 8
Today I read an article on the Fischbowl called More Thoughts On Filtering. This article was about how, in our district many websites like YouTube are being blocked to students. Many believe that this is a violation of both staff and student's view and read, in turn you are violating their right given to them by the first amendment.
This article relates to my class because the block of YouTube and similar sights is in affect at our school. We may not necessarily need to use these sights at the current moment, but sometime during the school year, we may want to add a video to enhance a project, but because of filtering, we would not be able to even view the video. There are certain websites that I do believe should be blocked, but I think it is ridiculous that websites like YouTube (which do not generally allow any videos that should need to be blocked) are censored. We aren't little kids who look for the definition to a particularly naughty word and then giggle about it, we are all old enough to know better than to look for websites we shouldn't.
The article More Thoughts On Filtering relates to the world because there are many other schools that filter websites like YouTube. Some students may not object to the censoring of these websites, but many more do. The censor does not prevent anything, nor does it help anyone. As stated in the article:
"You violate your staff's and students' intellectual freedom, their rights to view. By arbitratily blocking other sites, you are violating your staff's and students' right to read. You are denying them their rights accorded by the First Amendment."
It is not fair that anyone should be denied the right to upload a video for a project just because some of the adults who run our schools are scared we might get into something "naughty".
This article relates to my class because the block of YouTube and similar sights is in affect at our school. We may not necessarily need to use these sights at the current moment, but sometime during the school year, we may want to add a video to enhance a project, but because of filtering, we would not be able to even view the video. There are certain websites that I do believe should be blocked, but I think it is ridiculous that websites like YouTube (which do not generally allow any videos that should need to be blocked) are censored. We aren't little kids who look for the definition to a particularly naughty word and then giggle about it, we are all old enough to know better than to look for websites we shouldn't.
The article More Thoughts On Filtering relates to the world because there are many other schools that filter websites like YouTube. Some students may not object to the censoring of these websites, but many more do. The censor does not prevent anything, nor does it help anyone. As stated in the article:
"You violate your staff's and students' intellectual freedom, their rights to view. By arbitratily blocking other sites, you are violating your staff's and students' right to read. You are denying them their rights accorded by the First Amendment."
It is not fair that anyone should be denied the right to upload a video for a project just because some of the adults who run our schools are scared we might get into something "naughty".
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
PLN 7
So many students wonder, "when am I going to use this?" We don't understand how variables relate to our futures. Mr. Holman talks about his in on post, math in life. He talked about how many students wonder when coefficients and variables are going to come up in our lives to the point of where we need to know them. Mr. Holman now wonders, "Why am I teaching this?" Should there be specific things that teachers teach? Should they focus on balancing check books, taxes, and home mortgage.
This article is particularly important to me. Not only because Mr. Holman is my algebra teacher, but because I often find myself asking that question. "Why do they teach us algebra?" Most of us will never become scientist, or math teachers. Most of us will never really need to know some of the things we learn in our math classes, its true. Some of my friends used to joke and say, "We are taught these things so that when our kids can't figure it out, we can sit ad be confused with them." But now I know this is not the case. Eventually, we will have to be able to do our taxes and pay mortgages. The math skills we learn now are going to help in college, and even later on, when our kids are sitting at the kitchen table, wearing that same puzzled look, and trying to work out the same problem we struggled with so many years earlier.
math in life relates to the world because there are many students in many schools, who are asking the same question we ask every day. There are students who cut class because they think they will never need to know calculus, so whats the point in going? Many students go through life, not listening to what their teachers are saying, because they don't think that the things they learn in class will ever come up in the real world.
Math is a huge part of our lives. Without it, we can't cook, do taxes, or even count out money to make sure our parents aren't shorting us on our allowances. Mr. Holman brought up a good point, why do we teach what we teach. Well, its true, not for school, but for life, we learn.
This article is particularly important to me. Not only because Mr. Holman is my algebra teacher, but because I often find myself asking that question. "Why do they teach us algebra?" Most of us will never become scientist, or math teachers. Most of us will never really need to know some of the things we learn in our math classes, its true. Some of my friends used to joke and say, "We are taught these things so that when our kids can't figure it out, we can sit ad be confused with them." But now I know this is not the case. Eventually, we will have to be able to do our taxes and pay mortgages. The math skills we learn now are going to help in college, and even later on, when our kids are sitting at the kitchen table, wearing that same puzzled look, and trying to work out the same problem we struggled with so many years earlier.
math in life relates to the world because there are many students in many schools, who are asking the same question we ask every day. There are students who cut class because they think they will never need to know calculus, so whats the point in going? Many students go through life, not listening to what their teachers are saying, because they don't think that the things they learn in class will ever come up in the real world.
Math is a huge part of our lives. Without it, we can't cook, do taxes, or even count out money to make sure our parents aren't shorting us on our allowances. Mr. Holman brought up a good point, why do we teach what we teach. Well, its true, not for school, but for life, we learn.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
PLN-6
http://http://davidwarlick.com/2cents/2007/09/25/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-tool/ Today I read a post called How Long does it Take to Become a Tool on 2 cents worth. This post focused on how email and blogging abuse and how long it will take before new technology is used as not a toy, but as a learning tool.
This post applied to our class because laptops and other new technology are being introduced to the classroom. We sometimes have problems remembering that our laptops are not for chatting with friends, but for learning. Sometimes, we forget that Google Earth is not for looking up our friend’s address and saying “I see you!” but for searching for places we have been and remembering what we did there, (though admittedly, the former is very fun.) Our privilege to use the laptops in class is sometimes abused, just as David Warlick said.
This post applies to my life because sometimes, when I am doing my homework, I forget that I am doing homework, not checking email. Sometimes, I get distracted by something I see on the web, and forget why I am really on the computer.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Tool relates to the world because new technology is being applied to the classroom all the time. Most students aren’t used to having such advanced technology in the classroom. Often they get distracted by it and technology becomes a toy again.
We will always be distracted by the advancements in our classrooms, but it won’t be long before laptops, web cams, and other equipment are used every day, in every classroom.
This post applied to our class because laptops and other new technology are being introduced to the classroom. We sometimes have problems remembering that our laptops are not for chatting with friends, but for learning. Sometimes, we forget that Google Earth is not for looking up our friend’s address and saying “I see you!” but for searching for places we have been and remembering what we did there, (though admittedly, the former is very fun.) Our privilege to use the laptops in class is sometimes abused, just as David Warlick said.
This post applies to my life because sometimes, when I am doing my homework, I forget that I am doing homework, not checking email. Sometimes, I get distracted by something I see on the web, and forget why I am really on the computer.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Tool relates to the world because new technology is being applied to the classroom all the time. Most students aren’t used to having such advanced technology in the classroom. Often they get distracted by it and technology becomes a toy again.
We will always be distracted by the advancements in our classrooms, but it won’t be long before laptops, web cams, and other equipment are used every day, in every classroom.
PLN-5
http://http://www.thethinkingstick.com/?p=575
Today I read a post by Jeff Utech about integrating versus embedding technology into our learning environments. He talked about how integrating technology is like fitting pieces of a puzzle together; some pieces fit, others don't.
This relates to the classroom because we too are integrating technology into the classroom. We are learning how to use the computers to help us in our learning environment. Our class is learning how to make personal learning networks and personal journeys. The computer in the classroom is becoming, well, personal. We are slowly embedding technology into our classroom. The laptops and how to use them is becoming a really important part of just about every English class.
This relates to the world because we aren't the only school working to embed technology in our learning environments. All around the world, schools are working to make more technologically advanced classrooms. Laptops and other such devices are becoming more and more common in classrooms. Books are being replaced with laptops and websites containing the required reading.
It is amazing to me that our world is becoming so advanced that we have the privilege to use laptops and web cams in our classrooms.
Today I read a post by Jeff Utech about integrating versus embedding technology into our learning environments. He talked about how integrating technology is like fitting pieces of a puzzle together; some pieces fit, others don't.
This relates to the classroom because we too are integrating technology into the classroom. We are learning how to use the computers to help us in our learning environment. Our class is learning how to make personal learning networks and personal journeys. The computer in the classroom is becoming, well, personal. We are slowly embedding technology into our classroom. The laptops and how to use them is becoming a really important part of just about every English class.
This relates to the world because we aren't the only school working to embed technology in our learning environments. All around the world, schools are working to make more technologically advanced classrooms. Laptops and other such devices are becoming more and more common in classrooms. Books are being replaced with laptops and websites containing the required reading.
It is amazing to me that our world is becoming so advanced that we have the privilege to use laptops and web cams in our classrooms.
PLN-5
http://http://www.thethinkingstick.com/?p=575
Today I read a post by Jeff Utech about integrating versus embedding technology into our learning environments. He talked about how integrating technology is like fitting pieces of a puzzle together; some pieces fit, others don't.
This relates to the classroom because we too are integrating technology into the classroom. We are learning how to use the computers to help us in our learning environment. Our class is learning how to make personal learning networks and personal journeys. The computer in the classroom is becoming, well, personal. We are slowly embedding technology into our classroom. The laptops and how to use them is becoming a really important part of just about every English class.
This relates to the world because we aren't the only school working to embed technology in our learning environments. All around the world, schools are working to make more technologically advanced classrooms. Laptops and other such devices are becoming more and more common in classrooms. Books are being replaced with laptops and websites containing the required reading.
It is amazing to me that our world is becoming so advanced that we have the privilege to use laptops and web cams in our classrooms.
Today I read a post by Jeff Utech about integrating versus embedding technology into our learning environments. He talked about how integrating technology is like fitting pieces of a puzzle together; some pieces fit, others don't.
This relates to the classroom because we too are integrating technology into the classroom. We are learning how to use the computers to help us in our learning environment. Our class is learning how to make personal learning networks and personal journeys. The computer in the classroom is becoming, well, personal. We are slowly embedding technology into our classroom. The laptops and how to use them is becoming a really important part of just about every English class.
This relates to the world because we aren't the only school working to embed technology in our learning environments. All around the world, schools are working to make more technologically advanced classrooms. Laptops and other such devices are becoming more and more common in classrooms. Books are being replaced with laptops and websites containing the required reading.
It is amazing to me that our world is becoming so advanced that we have the privilege to use laptops and web cams in our classrooms.
Monday, September 24, 2007
PLN-4
http://http://thefischbowl.blogspot.com/2007/09/speaking-from-soul.html
Today I read a post on The Fischbowl called Speaking from the Soul. Mr. Fisch talked a lot about the importance of the staff at our school and how teachers need to open up to their students just as much as students need to open up to their teachers and to each other.
This relates to our classroom because there are times when, during a presentation, we get really nervous. This is completely understandable and happens to the best of us. Sometimes, we don’t realize that it can happen to our teachers as well.
Mr. Fisch talked about one teacher at our school, Mrs. Gerlich, who had problems sharing her writing with her students. On her blog, Mrs. Gerlich posted:
Today I read a post on The Fischbowl called Speaking from the Soul. Mr. Fisch talked a lot about the importance of the staff at our school and how teachers need to open up to their students just as much as students need to open up to their teachers and to each other.
This relates to our classroom because there are times when, during a presentation, we get really nervous. This is completely understandable and happens to the best of us. Sometimes, we don’t realize that it can happen to our teachers as well.
Mr. Fisch talked about one teacher at our school, Mrs. Gerlich, who had problems sharing her writing with her students. On her blog, Mrs. Gerlich posted:
Now I'm no wallflower, but I don't necessarily enjoy sharing my writing--writing for me is like a window on my soul--perhaps that's why I'm a reluctant blogger. But, I figured if 9th graders could share their writing, if Lary could do birdcalls, I could take a chance and share my poem. So I did. Even for a seasoned professional (or, ancient veteran teacher), I found it hard to recite my poem in front of the kids. Eye contact was hard to make and my stomach lurched, but I did it. Then Lary challenged me to put it on my blog. So I am. No eye contact, but my stomach is lurching...
This blog post relates not only to our class, but to the world as well. We all get nervous. Teachers, students, public speakers, managers; everyone gets scared to go up and talk in front of a crowd. In fact, most people would rather get eaten by sharks or die from a spider bite than speak in public.
We think that once a person grows up, they stop being afraid of public speaking, but there are so many people who do it every day, and still hate it. Teachers like Mrs. Gerlich are everywhere, they hate sharing in front of others, and yet, they make exceptional teachers and leaders. It is just like Mr. Fisch said, people like Mrs. Gerlich lead by example, and it is truly inspiring.
We think that once a person grows up, they stop being afraid of public speaking, but there are so many people who do it every day, and still hate it. Teachers like Mrs. Gerlich are everywhere, they hate sharing in front of others, and yet, they make exceptional teachers and leaders. It is just like Mr. Fisch said, people like Mrs. Gerlich lead by example, and it is truly inspiring.
Monday, September 17, 2007
PLN Entry 3
Today I read an article on http://http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_5700291,00.html by Alan Gathright about five children who were taken to the hospital after two buses near Carmody Middle School bumped into each other. The buses just barely bumped each other so the children sustained no injuries, but, as in the words of one spokeswoman for Jefferson County Public Schools said, "We always err on the side of caution about making sure kids are OK," so the five students were taken to the hospital anyways.
This story really stuck out to me because my best friend and several of our other friends attend Carmody Middle School. It scares me to think that the buses that collided could have had one of my friends inside, and that the students could have been much worse off then they were.
This story, I believe, really relates to the world today. Too often, we see a child get hurt, and when they say they are fine, we dismiss any possibilities of serious health risks. Too often, when e child gets hurt, we assume that a band-aid and a kiss from mommy will make everything better and that the kid is just being a baby. I don't mean to say that every time a child gets a splinter, we should run them to the Emergency Room, but we should take more precautions about our children's health. The five students in the bus bump were not injured, but there was still a risk of head injuries. Perhaps the students shouldn't have been raced to the hospital like they were, but they should definitely been checked up on the next time they went to the doctor.
Children's health and safety is really important, and this Alan Gathright's article is a good (if hardly news worthy) example of how small injuries should be treated with the same amount of care more serious injuries are treated with.
This story really stuck out to me because my best friend and several of our other friends attend Carmody Middle School. It scares me to think that the buses that collided could have had one of my friends inside, and that the students could have been much worse off then they were.
This story, I believe, really relates to the world today. Too often, we see a child get hurt, and when they say they are fine, we dismiss any possibilities of serious health risks. Too often, when e child gets hurt, we assume that a band-aid and a kiss from mommy will make everything better and that the kid is just being a baby. I don't mean to say that every time a child gets a splinter, we should run them to the Emergency Room, but we should take more precautions about our children's health. The five students in the bus bump were not injured, but there was still a risk of head injuries. Perhaps the students shouldn't have been raced to the hospital like they were, but they should definitely been checked up on the next time they went to the doctor.
Children's health and safety is really important, and this Alan Gathright's article is a good (if hardly news worthy) example of how small injuries should be treated with the same amount of care more serious injuries are treated with.
Friday, September 14, 2007
PLN-Week1-2
This morning I read an article about a police officer who spared the life of an 18 year-old boy who broke into his house at 2 am last October. The police officer would have been justified if he had shot the intruder, but instead, used a shotgun loaded with bean bags so as not to kill the boy. Officer Kushdilian had every right to kill the 18 year old Dustin Mertz, but instead chose to let him live. Dustin’s right to live or die hung in the balance of one man’s choice.
Dustin’s story reminded me of the Lady and the Tiger. The princess was jealous of the lady behind one of the doors, but knew terrible death awaited her love if she led him to the door that hid the tiger. The princess had to make a choice. She had to decide whether live without her love, or death for him would be better. The youth who was a t trial had to hope that the princess would overcome her jealousy and lead him to the correct door. Officer Kushdilian had to make a choice as well. He had to choose whether or not the drunken Dustin deserved to live or die. Both the princess and Kushdilian had to make choices that would either end or save a life.
Though never quite as extreme, I too have had to make choices that would help me and hurt someone else. We have all had to make a decision like that. Sometimes the outcome will be better for us than for others, and sometimes vice versa. I should hope none of us ever have to make a decision that could be the end of someone’s life, but we have all been in situations that are very similar.
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6888399?source=rss
Dustin’s story reminded me of the Lady and the Tiger. The princess was jealous of the lady behind one of the doors, but knew terrible death awaited her love if she led him to the door that hid the tiger. The princess had to make a choice. She had to decide whether live without her love, or death for him would be better. The youth who was a t trial had to hope that the princess would overcome her jealousy and lead him to the correct door. Officer Kushdilian had to make a choice as well. He had to choose whether or not the drunken Dustin deserved to live or die. Both the princess and Kushdilian had to make choices that would either end or save a life.
Though never quite as extreme, I too have had to make choices that would help me and hurt someone else. We have all had to make a decision like that. Sometimes the outcome will be better for us than for others, and sometimes vice versa. I should hope none of us ever have to make a decision that could be the end of someone’s life, but we have all been in situations that are very similar.
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6888399?source=rss
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
PLN-Week 1-1
Today, I read an article from Denver post about a skeleton found near a Cherry Creek Bike trail. The skeleton is so worn away that they are having troubles identifying it. Because the skeleton was found under such strange circumstances, police are not ruling out foul play. The skeleton's identity and story will remain a mystery until such time when it can be identified.
What really mattered to me from this story was the mystery that went along with the skeleton. We may never know who this person was, or what caused their untimely death. We may never know what they were doing on the path that day, or if there is a family out there, missing them.
This article connects to class because, like many of the stories we read in class, we are never really sure about what happens at the end. In Lady and the Tiger, we never find out what happens to the youth. In Scarlet Ibis, we never learn how Doodle really died, or what happened to his family after his death. These stories are similar to the article because of the mystery that hangs around the ending. We know nothing about the skeleton that was found, or what brought its end. We can only assume things, much like we can only guess the ending of the short stories we read in class.
This article relates to the world around us because, everywhere, people go missing, and nobody really notices. The skeleton was severely decomposed, so the person we found must have been missing for quite some time. However, no reports were made about a missing person, so we have no one to link the skeleton to. All around the world, people go missing for weeks, and even months, but rarely is there ever concern. It is always assumed the have moved or gone on a cruise. Perhaps the skeleton we found was like so many that go missing. Maybe this person went out on the trail, and when they didn't comeback, maybe everyone assumed they had run off and gone on an early vacation.
This article really touched me, so many people go missing a year, and it is sad that so many of them aren't recovered until it is too late. Perhaps we will find the identity of this person. Unfortunately, because we don't even have a missing person to link it to, we may never even discover the gender of this skeleton.
What really mattered to me from this story was the mystery that went along with the skeleton. We may never know who this person was, or what caused their untimely death. We may never know what they were doing on the path that day, or if there is a family out there, missing them.
This article connects to class because, like many of the stories we read in class, we are never really sure about what happens at the end. In Lady and the Tiger, we never find out what happens to the youth. In Scarlet Ibis, we never learn how Doodle really died, or what happened to his family after his death. These stories are similar to the article because of the mystery that hangs around the ending. We know nothing about the skeleton that was found, or what brought its end. We can only assume things, much like we can only guess the ending of the short stories we read in class.
This article relates to the world around us because, everywhere, people go missing, and nobody really notices. The skeleton was severely decomposed, so the person we found must have been missing for quite some time. However, no reports were made about a missing person, so we have no one to link the skeleton to. All around the world, people go missing for weeks, and even months, but rarely is there ever concern. It is always assumed the have moved or gone on a cruise. Perhaps the skeleton we found was like so many that go missing. Maybe this person went out on the trail, and when they didn't comeback, maybe everyone assumed they had run off and gone on an early vacation.
This article really touched me, so many people go missing a year, and it is sad that so many of them aren't recovered until it is too late. Perhaps we will find the identity of this person. Unfortunately, because we don't even have a missing person to link it to, we may never even discover the gender of this skeleton.
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