In all honesty, I started this challenge with the thought in the back of my mind that it would become yet another loose end in my life. I feared it would end up like my Picture Fall endeavor, and much like my personal 365 project which made it mid-way through February with any real consistency. I had these thoughts, even as I encouraged my students to write and share.
Yet, this time, I didn’t quit. I didn’t fail. There are no loose ends.
Here are some of the observations and questions I have as I think back on this experience and ahead to next year.
- Share some of the student reflections about their experience with next year’s students.
- Incorporate the weekly SOLSC once students are comfortable on the blogs.
- Encourage students to try things with their writing. Have them talk about it.
- Have more discussion about commenting – for me, that’s a key ingredient that kept me motivated.
- Be able to connect them to other students, in other classrooms – in a safe and encouraging way.
- Have some expectation of participation – it was interesting too see how one hour really jumped in and one did not.
- Maybe have a SOLSC week before Christmas as preparation.
- I’d LOVE to require their entries on their blogs, but I don’t know how to do so without giving them daily access. I really read and connected to those who posted, but felt a little distant from those who wrote in their journals.
- Work to make it more intrinsic. The weekly prizes and grand prize were great, but cost me a pretty penny!
I love thinking and reflecting about the possibilities!!
Amanda —
It’s been great slicing with you this month. I, too, am pondering how to connect student slicers. One of the things I love about the challenge is the way it is a global experience. How remarkable to be able to give this to our students too.
Happy writing,
Ruth
I had a similar experience to you last year when I started to participate in the challenge for the first time – I thought I would get too busy at one point or another and not be able to stick with it. Then I did, just as you did, and it was a great feeling. I am glad that you were able to slice for yourself and with your students!
Look who I found! Congrats on your Slice of Month postings! You did it.