New Gadgets!

I have just learned how to add gadgets to my Blog site!  I am excited about them and still have not searched all 1,173 of them, but eventually I will :)

The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake is an excellent read for adolescent/middle school aged children.  The story is about a seventh grade African American student named Maleeka.  She is dealing with pressures from peers to fit in during the trials of adolescent years, being raised by her mother, she is scrutinized daily for wearing clothes her mother sews for her.  Maleeka knows she deserves to be treated better but doesn’t know how to require respect from her peers. Until, a new teacher at her school Miss Saunders tries to get Maleeka to see what a beautiful person she is inside and out. Maleeka is resistant to Miss Saunders efforts and feels she is intruding on her personal life. This book follows Maleeka Madison through very tough times in developing self worth through many hardships as she learns to see herself in a new way.  I feel middle school is such a difficult transitional age for children and students would be able to relate to this book.  You should check it out and recommend it for your class.  

Good Reads?

Good Reads is a free website for book lovers. Imagine it as a large library that you can wander through and see everyone's bookshelves, their reviews, and their ratings. You can also post your own reviews and catalog what you have read, are currently reading, and plan to read in the future. You have your book shelf of books you are currently reading, want to read, or have read.  You can join a discussion group, start a book club, contact an author, and even post your own writing.  This site is new to me as I am still learning how to navigate my way around.  I am still learning the features of this site and how to navigate it.  Check it out for some recommended reads and to discuss books! It is free!

Writing Essentials

I have just added a new book to my bookshelf Writing Essentials by Regie Routman.  I have just started reading and so far have been inspired to try new creative ideas on how to spark young authors and am eager to share information I learn.  Stay tuned.. 

Creativity *Sparks* Writing

Yesterday, I attended a painting class.  As I was painting, I feel inspired to add "the arts" as inspiration to spark writing ideas in my students.  I plan to add mediums like watercolors to help my students come up with writing ideas.  It felt so creative and hopefully my students will come up with some different ideas!  Stay tuned to see how it goes...  :)