Rules of the Blog

                                        Tips for using our blog

Rules for students to follow:

** Remember, the purpose of this blog is to have an audience for our masterpieces and to comment on others' work.  Everything should be school-related, positive and well-written.

•  Students will only be identified by their first names, do not use last names
•   Posts and comments written by students or parents are checked by Mrs. DiBattista before they are published on the blog, so when you post a comment, it will say "awaiting moderation" until it is approved.
•   Posts will not include personal details about students such as addresses and family information.
•   All students must have parental permission to post on the blog and to have their photo published on the blog. Forms will be sent home in September and need to be returned in a timely fashion in order to participate. 
•   Parents who leave comments are asked to use their first name only so as not to identify their child (Please post comments as“Ryan’s mom” or “Emma’s grandfather”, etc.)
•   Proof-read your comments carefully.  Students should have a family member check for spelling mistakes before submitting a comment.
• Remember not to write anything on this blog that you would not say to someone in person.
• Always do your best work and be responsible.  A good blog entry has a purpose, encourages others to respond and is written thoughtfully.
•  All students must abide by the blogging rules that we have established as a class.

Websites:
Great Blogging Classes to check out

Examples of great blogging topics

Mystery Skype video for Map Skills

Tips for commenting on a blog-

Mrs. Yollis's class video on how to post a quality comment
Your comment should include:



Content is key!
In our class, we evaluate our blog comments.
A one-point comment is a general comment that doesn't add very much to the post. Example: I like your blog. Please visit mine! A two-point comment adds something to the comment conversation. A commenter might compliment the writer in a specific way or add new information. Another idea is to make a connection. Maybe the post reminds you of an experience that you've had. Share that connection! Try to end your comment with a relevant question. That way, an interesting conversation can develop.