During the course I was afforded the opportunity to use many web 2.0 tools, all of which I believe should be implemented into classroom instruction. I gained a lot of knowledge about web 2.0 programs, information that I plan to use as a future educator. One particular web 2.0 program that I will use is Prezi. This will be beneficial to my auditory and visual learners in which I will also implement hands on activitys to accommodate all my students. Prezi is great for presentations rather you are presenting information to your class or staff. With its unique outlook I believe it adds life to your presentation. Overall web 2.0 tools help to structure the classroom, being technologically savvy is one characteristic that can help you in the near future. Would you like to make your own prezi? Here is the site in which you can access for directions on how to create your own prezi presentation at prezi.com

In preparing for my last and final presentation of the semester I thought that the information I've obtained can help my fellow colleagues. I dealt with developing awareness of print as a form of communication, and environmental print. All of which are significant aspects in the child’s development and awareness regarding print. A major concept that children acquire is that print conveys meaning. Many children develop this once their parents began to read books to them. I feel it’s necessary to engage in language and literacy activities with children at a young age. This will be like a head start for the students once they began school it has already been introduced. Environmental print is basically a child being made aware of their surroundings things that are part of the community. As children use or observe objects in meaningful context they pay attention to the objects appearance. For instance, the parent could be driving and child may notice the McDonalds arches, they may have visited in the past and enjoyed the food and toys so much that they are able to recognize environmental print. Studies indicate that although young children around age 2 recognize environmental print such as Coke, McDonalds and Target they attend to this print in a very global manner. That is they pay attention to the whole context and not just the print. They attend to the shape of the object, its color as well as the design. As their print awareness develops they began to focus more directly on the print. Experiences with environmental print are important in facilitating beginning print awareness. Here is a site that informs parents about print awareness and how it can help in their child’s future success.www.readingrockets.org/teaching/reading101/printawareness

The Effectiveness of Teacher Assessment Strategies

While preparing for my presentation regarding Teacher assessment strategies I have learned the purpose and the role that it plays in a child’s development. One purpose is to evaluate achievement in comparison to that of a sample group of children. Another purpose is to measure a child’s achievement on specific test objectives. These particular assessments can help with instructional planning for a teacher. These assessments come with a plethora of advantages as well as disadvantages streaming from the lack of development as well as coming directly from the curriculum objectives. One disadvantage in which I have become very familiar with is improper development due to teachers not being made aware of how to implement them and use them in an effective manner. The improper use of these assessments can cause problems in the academic success of the student. In my opinion I also believe that this discredits the teacher regarding the lack of effectiveness. Here is a site in which you can read more about classroom assessments. www.mylearningplan.com/

Me and my Gorgeous Grandmother!!!!! Gloria Benjamin my heart!!!!

The Holiday season is finally here!!! I love Thanksgiving it’s all about spending time with family and enjoying life. This Thanksgiving I am grateful that God has blessed me with abounding grace; I am doing great in school, I have a place to lay my head, food on the table, clothes on my back and  I am in good health I have a lot to be thankful for. It’s sad to me that the things I mentioned some people take for granted when its people who are struggling to make ends meet, or are homeless with no place to go. I make it my responsibility each week to bless somebody who cannot return the favor. We often find ourselves only wanting to give a hand if we are getting two back. So I would like to challenge my colleagues to bless someone else just as they have been blessed, don’t expect anything in return or praises from your peers. However, expect the smile that the individual in which you seek to help will give you. You never know what someone is going through you never know how much a hug and a smile can make their day. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF MY PROFESSORS, ALL TEACHER CANDIDATES, AND ALL MY FELLOW PANTHERS BE BLESSED!!!!

America has spoken by exercising their right to vote in the most recent Presidential Election. It was an absolute honor to take part in this election. On November 6, 2012 President Barack Obama was re-elected for a second term as President of The United States. I am proud to say that my vote counted my voice was heard. I must admit I was a bit concerned watching the numbers come in. It was intense knowing that my future was in the hands of the American people. I mean one vote can determine the well being of millions all over the Country. Now that President Barack Obama has been re-elected I have been granted the opportunity to complete my College career. Pell grants are safe for College students who need financial aid to further their education. History has been made and I am elated that I was able to take part in such a historical moment. Education is the way to go I am grateful that while I was trying to figure things out God had already worked it out for our good.Check out the Election projections www.electionprojection.com/

As everyone is aware Election Day is tomorrow November 6, 2012.  We have all been made aware of how important this election is regarding our well being. I encourage each and every one of you to exercise your right to vote. As the countdown is on our destiny is in the hands of the American people. I often hear people complain about circumstances in which they face, but have yet to even register to vote. How can you complain if you are not doing what’s necessary for change? As we all know complain does not make a change but a vote will!! I am so proud of myself for voting for the first time in the years to come I will able to express to my children that I voted and vowed to move “Forward” in progress with the first African American President of The United States President Barack Obama. I advise you all to visit his website for information as needed at www.barackobama.com/Get informed and Get out and VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!

With Election Day right around the corner it is important for everyone to get out and vote. No matter who you feel is worthy of building this economy and helping those who are the least of these. With no vote you have no voice I pose the question what are you doing as a citizen to help educate those who are uneducated? I’m not one to get deeply involved in politics but as a College student I am aware that my vote will not only count for me rather the millions of College students who cannot afford the high price of tuition. Our education means so much to us if we allow someone to take our opportunity away from us then what will we stand for? Education is the key!! Check out this link which will give you both candidates’ views regarding education, the economy, and taxes just to mention a few. Hope you gain insight so that you will make a great decision on Election Day. 2012election.procon.org/