Digital Portfolio-Alicia S

http://team9a.weebly.com/

The above link is to the Weebly I created for my myself and my team classes. Originally, when investigating which Web 2.0 portfolio that I could use that would support and encourage 21st century learners, I had investigated Threering. However, Threering app evaluations said that it would inconveniently crash, so I went with Weebly and got that app for my iPhone. It was difficult to create the portfolio at school because of the blocks on the school computers. Students, therefore, would not be able to view the YouTube videos if they were in the school's computer lab, so their viewing would take place at home. I designed the Weebly with that inconvenience in mind.  I have used the portfolio to keep students updated on the topics discussed in class. They would be able to view the material on the site and be able to keep up with the class discussions. They would be able to see the entire portfolio in my classroom because certain blocks, like YouTube, have been lifted for teachers in their class rooms. I have included the YouTube videos the class watched as well as additional links to digital citizenship websites. Students have begun to respond to the current blog topic, and more communication will occur as the classes delve into what the American dream means to them. They need to use critical thinking when responding because they are incorporating not only their projected ideas for their future, but also ideas presented by peers, characters from the play we are reading, and ideas from the portfolio-linked video I Believe in the American Dream. There are several reflective pieces that are included on the portfolio that give students food for thought and segway into class discussions such as what paths they may choose, which is often a theme for the freshmen. The characterization stick figure is one we use in class and a reminder that we all have dreams (visions/hopes) for the future, strengths, weaknesses, and a past.  Personal development is important in preparing the ninth grade for the rigors of tenth. I have also included a link to Tagxedo.com because part of their final product for the American dream theme is creating a word cloud. Students will need to collaborate with a peer or family member to create their symbol and word choice. 21st Century skills are incorporated with the assignments and links. The following standards correlate to the portfolio's creation and usage by students and teacher: