Google Reader Update (thing # 5)

I read lots of interesting tidbits but only clicked to read the full story a few times. An interesting story about the origin of Veteran’s Day caught my eye. One man from Kansas started the push for Armistice Day (end of WWI) to become Veteran’s Day. Cool.

I also read a rather disturbing, bleak comparison of education to the penitentiary system on the Education Innovation blog.  While much of this is true, I dislike focusing on the problem. It makes it hard to continue teaching with any enthusiasm. What to do?

Online Tools Exploration (Thing # 14)

I thoroughly enjoyed this assignment. I thought of many creative ideas having nothing to do with school! But hey, I’ve got Christmas presents and cards in the works. I even scored some points with the in-laws by forwarding on LetterPop which will make their Christmas newsletter look much fancier!

I found an interactive timeline which I’ll assign my students to use for the causes of the Civil War this week. I also liked Toondoo which allows you to create your own comic strips. This activity would be great for students to show a particular point of view in history or government.

I’m going to keep looking!