A running account of the process of the proposal, acquisition, development and integration of a virtual presence for education at Suffern Middle School, Suffern, New York, USA.
I must say…this Second Life experience is great! My 6th grade special ed students are learning this virtual world much quicker than me. Not only are they hands on, they are learning critical thinking skills, navigation, cooperation, attendance is almost perfect (big thing for us) among many other skills. The students are teaching me and the confidence that gives them is beyond great. I have one student with major speech issues. He has a very hard time communicating.. so he doesn’t. But on Second Life, this kid becomes alive, I’ve never seen him smile so much and get so excited about school. My whole class has asked for library passes during lunch, who gives up lunch? Kids that are having fun while learning in Second Life..all teachers should get their students on..make the time, it won’t be lost.
Proud Special Ed Teacher
One of my teachers has brought her 9 special ed students into Second Life this week. Understanding the special needs of these students- I was prepared to slow down the pace, deliver chunks of content in a model/execute model/execute method -and it was a good way to begin. But, true to the virtual landscape, it wasn’t long before the kids felt the confidence to extend their knowledge through self- discovery and peer mentorship! We have been working together for a week or so now- and the kids are truly remarkable. Every discovery in world is met with delight and the kids have been cooperative, focused and just plain fun to be around! They are now building simple objects and next week we will be starting a literature project. More to come but in the mean time I asked the teacher for a reflection…
“I must say…this Second Life experience is great! My special ed students are learning this virtual world much quicker than I. Not only are they hands on, they are learning critical thinking skills, navigation, cooperation, among many other skills, and attendance is almost perfect (a big thing for us). The students are teaching me and the confidence that gives them is beyond great. I have one student with major speech issues. He has a very hard time communicating… so he doesn’t. But in Second Life, this kid becomes alive! I’ve never seen him smile so much and get so excited about school. My whole class has asked for library passes during lunch. Who gives up lunch? Kids that are having fun while learning in Second Life!! All teachers should get their students in..make the time, it won’t be lost.”
First of all, I must say I feel a bit like a renegade, one of those radio pirates of days past, stealing the airwaves of an unknowing station. This is not Peg Sheehy, the beloved and revered Queen of Ramapo Islands, but one of her minions. Some of you know me as Medina SMSTeacher, but I’m mostly called Liza Medina in these parts.
I write to you today about a project that introduces a brand new group of students to the Second Life grid. I mentioned to Peg that I thought it would be good to have a practical, honest day to day look at our process. She readily gave me the blog address, log in information and told me to have at it, so here I am.
I am a middle school teacher in my eleventh year at Ramapo Central School District (and my third year on the Ramapo Islands), and I have to admit that when I’m away from the islands too long, I do get a bit itchy. Our district embraces many technologies, and my students have used Power Point, Webquests and Glogster to name a few this year, but nothing really even approaches the immersive experience they’re given through Second Life. Below is my day to day blog for the week, detailing what was (and wasn’t) accomplished as my kiddos went “In World” for the first time.
BRINGING LITERATURE TO (SECOND) LIFE PROJECT
DAY ZERO:
As I prepare for this unit, I reflect upon why I’m bothering with such an undertaking. The answer really is simple—I am a storyteller. I love stories; intricately woven threads that produce a tapestry that in many times criticizes, imitates or reveals something profound about life. I am fortunate enough to teach in a place that allows me to be a storyteller, and supports my journey to show children the power of their own stories. At the end of the year, I know my students may not remember all of the prepositions in the English language, but they will walk away secure in the notion that their ideas, thoughts and perspectives are unique and worthy of sharing.
In the hopes of preparing my students for their lives as story tellers, I have to empower them with the tools they will need. Their stories are wildly different than my own—my students will one day live in a world where books may be memories, and all stories will be shared through some sort of digital medium. To pretend that digital communication is an “extra” and not an integral part of what they need to be taught is short-sighted and foolish. My students need exposure to as much technology as possible, not for the sake of technology, but for the purpose of preparing them for an adulthood as a digitally literate and expressive individual.
The students I work with this year have one common bond—they do not like to read. At the start of the year, as I get to know students, the vast majority of them told me they either do not read unless assigned work, and cannot recall a book they truly enjoyed. In order to make reading more manageable, I’ve been trying to embed solid reading strategy in our instruction this year. A large part of my work has been towards inferential thought and building visualization skills. Second Life seems to be the perfect tool to push my students to meet their maximum potential in terms of both of these skills.
When I announced the project at the start of December, I reminded students that in order to accomplish something in Second Life, they would have to read a book first. I gave them the freedom to choose any book they would like, as long as the book had a main character as a focal point. We have done several pre-writing activities, including creating character webs and journaling from the perspective of this character. This was to prepare them for the job at hand—they will need to create and become characters from their novels in Second Life.
DAY ONE: “The best laid plans of mice and men are oft put astray”– Robert Burns
As we returned from break, I was horrified to find that our entire building’s internet was down. Second Life will have to wait until tomorrow, which indeed throws off my calendar, but luckily gives me the luxury of conferencing with students about their novels. While I conference with individual students, the class discusses their characters with partners to try to find similarities between the novels. When I make my way around the room, I am shocked to find that for the first time this school year, only three of my ninety-seven students have not finished reading and pre-writing. This number is usually substantially larger with my students this year. When I asked very honestly why they all read, the answer was unanimous– Second Life. They were so intrigued by the idea of Second Life that they did not want to risk missing out on the opportunity to log in (From past experience, my students know that if they don’t finish work, they are pulled from further activities until that work is done). I’m thrilled that I’ve finally got their interest with this project, and know that with this level of enthusiasm, there’s an opportunity for their best ideas to be brought forth.
DAY TWO: “Welcome to the jungle!” — W. Axl Rose
I am an admitted control freak, so prior to this day, I spent time over vacation logging into each student account to make sure that it worked. I compiled a list of those accounts that weren’t functional and sent it to Peg Sheehy, the Queen of the Ramapo Islands and resident Second Life svengali. Once those accounts were in order, I knew we were ready to go.
On our first day “In World” my students were extremely enthusiastic. However, I couldn’t let them near a computer until the ground rules were established. I made them aware that all school rules and policies still apply in Second Life, and that the virtual world is still our classroom. Everyone is expected to behave in a way that is respectful and productive. I think a part of my job here is to point out to students that all things digital live on forever. Simply put, if you commit it to writing on a computer– whether it’s a hand held device, a text message sent via cell phone, an email or a blog, it becomes part of your digital signature. I want my students to know that their behavior on the web defines their character and people’s perceptions of them just as much as their actions and words in person.
After enduring my monologue, the students were basically frothing at the mouth with anticipation, so I let them log in. With their pre-writing sheets and novels in hand, my students got their first glimpse of their digital alter egos. I allowed them a few minutes to log in and get acclimated. I encouraged them to practice walking, flying and moving with their avatars. For some of my economically disadvantaged students, this was a truly new experience. For others who have played in virtual worlds thanks to the people at Build A Bear Workshop and Webkins, this was a variation on a familiar theme. Regardless, all of my students adjusted rather quickly.
After five minutes, they were ready to be directed in how to communicate via local chat and instant message. Since this is still my classroom, it is critical to me that students know how to ask for and receive help whenever they need it. Today’s agenda had to be about how to communicate properly, or the entire project would not succeed. We practiced communicating using Instant Message, as well as Local Chat, then got into the business of creating “Friend Lists.”
This again was familiar to most students because of their time on instant messaging technologies and social networking sites. What amazed me, however, was their eagerness to “friend” everyone in the class. There was no social stigma based upon clothing or group or intellect. It seems none of the regular “cliques” in our building made the transfer into the virtual world. It was much like being with Kindergarten children—everyone was open to the idea that anyone could be a friend or a helping hand.
As has been my past observation, many of my special education, ESL and otherwise classified students took very readily to Second Life. One student in particular, who I will call “Pete,” is a learning disabled young man without a confident word to say in class. However, in Second Life on the very first day, he hit the ground running. He added friends and then bounced to other computers to help those who struggled with the task. He clicked around avidly and found amazing capabilities. “HEY! My avatar can laugh!” he announced. He was suddenly the center of attention, but in the most positive light. Envious peers lined up next to his computer to see how their avatars could also be made to laugh.
Overall, it was a wonderful first day. Sure, there were glitches– this one couldn’t log in (”What do you mean I have to capitalize my log in name?”), that one didn’t know where she was (”OH, those numbers are COORDINATES! HOW CUTE!”)– but they were far outweighed by the excitement and enthusiasm of my students. As we immerse deeper into the virtual world, I’m intrigued by what they will be able to do.
DAY THREE: “Vile fiend!”– William Shakespeare
Alas, technology. Thou art a fickle mistress. No Second Life today due to those ever possible technology issues. My kids are deflated as they enter the classroom and realize we’re working with pencils and paper today. It struck me so plainly in that moment how foreign these school tools really are to their real life selves.
When I was in middle school, I took comfort in writing in my journal (Hello Kitty with a little metal lock, to keep a nosy older brother from knowing my true thoughts) and reading Sweet Valley High books. Paper, books, pencils– I used them in every facet of my life. However, these kids go home and unload their innermost thoughts and feelings on a computer screen– livejournal, saywire, facebook, myspace. If they aren’t literally plugged in to technology, they don’t feel “plugged in” to life at all. So, sadly, today’s class was “Unplugged,” but the promise of technology is just around the corner…
I AM INCLUDING SOME OF THE NOTES FROM THE CHAT LOG DURING THE FASHION SHOW. I COULDN’T EDIT THEM IF I’D WANTED TO!
[9:28] Chaser Brody: this is where the person describing the outfit should stand
[9:28] Chaser Brody: behind this podium
[9:28] Chaser Brody: and the person who is “modeling”
[9:29] Chaser Brody: should reallly take their time and try not to finish before the person describing does
[9:29] Chaser Brody: after that change places
[9:29] Chaser Brody: are you getting this guys?
[9:29] Chaser Brody: cominciamo la sfilata tra poco (we are starting the fashion show soon!!)
[9:29] Chaser Brody: cominciamo la sfilata tra poco (we are starting the fashion show soon!!)
[9:30] Kalypso SMSVoyager: Ciao
[9:30] This SMSTeacher: buon giorno a tuttti!!
[9:30] Sitala SMSVoyager: Syl ha i capelli marroni e gli occhi verdi. I capelli e lunghi.
[9:30] Sitala SMSVoyager: capelli e lunghi. Porta una camicia blu che costa venti Euro, e pantaloncini corti viola che costa dieci Euro
[9:31] Brasil SMSVoyager: buona camicia
[9:31] Sitala SMSVoyager: Ha un paio di scarpe con tacchi alti.
[9:31] Hermione SMSVoyager: Mi piace camicia
[9:31] Nemo SMSVoyager: lol
[9:31] Palior SMSVoyager: mi piace camicia
[9:31] This SMSTeacher: grazie
[9:31] Thoral SMSVoyager: Mi piace la tua camicia! E` bella!
[9:31] Una SMSVoyager: mi piace il pantolonchini
[9:31] Bude SMSVoyager: chebella
[9:31] Tercid SMSVoyager: la tua camicia e bella
[9:31] Persephone SMSVoyager: mi piace
[9:32] Persephone SMSVoyager: mi piace
[9:32] Nemo SMSVoyager: mi piace grall
[9:32] Auson SMSVoyager: buona camiicia
[9:32] Zircon SMSVoyager: mi piace la tua vesitio
[9:32] Zircon SMSVoyager: vestito*
[9:32] Klotho SMSVoyager: la camicia e` bella
[9:33] Persephone SMSVoyager: mi piace scarpe
[9:33] Areth SMSVoyager: Melib pelto, e ha gli occhi castani. Ha un corazza grigo e gli stivali grigi
[9:34] Bude SMSVoyager: che bella
[9:34] Brasil SMSVoyager: molto bello
[9:34] Una SMSVoyager: l’automobile? perche!
[9:34] Sitala SMSVoyager is Offline
[9:34] Thoral SMSVoyager: Mi piace la tua camicia.
[9:34] Bude SMSVoyager: take a picture
[9:34] Hermione SMSVoyager: Molto Bello
[9:35] Klotho SMSVoyager: mi piace l`automobile
[9:35] Thoral SMSVoyager: L’automobile e` interessante!
[9:35] Syl SMSVoyager: mi picace la tua camicia
[9:35] This SMSTeacher: grazie ragazzi!
[9:35] Nemo SMSVoyager: eww
[9:35] Sitala SMSVoyager is Online
[9:36] Una SMSVoyager: il vestito e molto motlo differente
[9:36] Sitala SMSVoyager: einteressante
[9:36] Hebe SMSVoyager: differente
[9:36] Syl SMSVoyager: bello
[9:36] Hermione SMSVoyager: divertnete
[9:38] Kallion SMSVoyager: Bello !
[9:38] Josto SMSVoyager: ha un paio di scarpe rosa sono molto belle.
[9:39] Josto SMSVoyager: grazie
[9:39] Anahi SMSVoyager: Zircon ha i capelli lunghi e marroni e gli occhi marroni.
I vestiti costanp novanta euro.
[9:39] Sitala SMSVoyager: prego
[9:39] Felk SMSVoyager: mi piache
[9:39] Syl SMSVoyager: bella
[9:39] Nemo SMSVoyager: mi piace
[9:39] Hebe SMSVoyager: mi piace la capelli
[9:39] Anahi SMSVoyager: Porta una camicetta nera e una giaca di pella nera.
Ha un paio di scarpe con tacco alto e nero. E molto bella!
[9:39] Una SMSVoyager: mi piace il pantolonchini ci sono moloto bella
[9:39] Syl SMSVoyager: molte benne
[9:39] Persephone SMSVoyager: non mi piace
[9:39] Hermione SMSVoyager: Mi piace
[9:40] Prymno SMSVoyager: mi no piace
[9:40] Kallion SMSVoyager: Sappho ha i capellli lungo e gli occhi azzuro .
Porta/Ha un vestito rasso e i stravelli lungo e neri .
Lei ha guanti neri e il gonna rossa .
[9:40] Prymno SMSVoyager: Boo!
[9:40] Prymno SMSVoyager: woops
[9:40] Una SMSVoyager: io voglio un camicia!
[9:40] Zircon SMSVoyager: Anahi ha i capelli biondi e lunghi e gli occhi azurri e belli! Porta i pantaloni gialli di medio lunghezza. Ha una conottiera viola e stretti. Ha un paio di scarpe con tacco alto e nero. I vestiti costano cinquanta eur. E bella!
Students at Suffern Middle School are currently studying the Middle East, a region full of geographic and cultural challenges. The Middle East unit follows an opening unit called Becoming Social Scientists in which students examined their own community and those of others through the lenses of government, geography, history, economy, and culture.
As social scientists, the students now look to the Middle East, examining the themes of adaptation and cooperation. We analyze natural and human-made barriers, using photos, maps (of the entire region and of the Old City in Jerusalem), and anchor texts: The Butter Battle Book by Dr. Seuss and The Seed by Isobel Pin. Students are challenged to think about the following framing question throughout the unit: How is cooperation essential for survival?
We have placed our discussion pods in close proximity to the fence that divides ToMorrow Island from Ramapo in hopes to begin a discussion about barriers that are impacting the students’ lives in the virtual world. This is a barrier that they actually face each day. Next I will ask Old Indigo on ToMorrow Island if the students at The Elizabeth Morrow School may be interested in a lively discussion/debate about the topic. Baby steps….
TEACHER RESPONSE from Julia Jaffee:
Yes, your teacher has purple hair. Now, let’s get to work! Teaching in Second Life inspired and rewarded students and teacher alike. The ability to communicate with students in a virtual environment heightened the notion of the classroom. The students relished in creating new images of themselves, and also stepped up to the plate, so to speak, and participated in the activities connected to our curriculum.
The curriculum itself worked quite well in the Second Life format. We entered Second Life as part of the immersion portion of a middle school humanities unit on the Middle East. Immersion lessons, by nature, encourage students to explore, record, and share. Second Life worked perfectly for such lessons! Students were able to thoughtfully discuss questions in small groups about barriers, natural and human-made, in the discussion pods. The ability to view pictures and maps of the Middle East on a giant flat-screen TV in world also facilitated learning well. Students also learned how to build walls in Second Life, and then discussed the pros and cons of their creations. What an incredible opportunity!
Teacher, Laura Alessi, (This SMSTeacher on Ramapo Islands) started the school year off thinking of ways to engage her middle school and high school students in a collaborative project. Mrs. Alessi teaches Italian at both Suffern Middle and Suffern High School. We put our heads together (always a dangerous thing around here!) and decided to start them off in Second Life. Today we began by orienting the 8th graders in her class at the middle school. The students joined a group (Ramapo Italian) and Sra. Alessi sent out a notice to the group with instructions for the day. Part of her purpose was to keep things simple and the other was to conduct an informal assessment to determine the students entry level writing/conversation ability. Here is one example of a notecard she received back today:
[9:48] Palior SMSVoyager: ciao
[9:48] Una SMSVoyager: ciao
[9:48] Palior SMSVoyager: come ti chiami
[9:49] Una SMSVoyager: mi chiamo Farrah E tu?
[9:49] Palior SMSVoyager: mi chiamo anthony
[9:49] Palior SMSVoyager: come stai
[9:50] Una SMSVoyager: sta cosi cosa e tu?
[9:50] Palior SMSVoyager: sta bene
[9:50] Palior SMSVoyager: quanti anni hai
[9:50] Una SMSVoyager: Ha tredici anni e tu?
[9:50] Palior SMSVoyager: ho tredici anni
[9:51] Palior SMSVoyager: quanti fratelli
[9:52] Una SMSVoyager: ho un fratello e tu?
[9:52] Palior SMSVoyager: ho un frattello
[9:52] Palior SMSVoyager: dove abiti
[9:52] Una SMSVoyager: Io abito nella Montebello e tu?
[9:53] Palior SMSVoyager: io abito nello airmont
[9:53] Palior SMSVoyager: arivederchi
Many of the students are new to Second Life, some had forgotten login or basic skills- but enough of them were functioning as student mentors and we are off to a good start. Using Poinkey’s Pods was a plus — but also required some management as many were still unsure of how to sit properly and we ended up with a few “singles” in what is designed to be a two-person pod (yes– some had threee when students unknowingly sat on each others’ laps—at least I think it was unknowingly ) Pics tomorrow and more conversations–Next we plan on taking them into Decka’s Decks to try multiple person conversations – and from there we will use multiple classes betqween the high school and middle school . NOTE: Once again – it was a teacher – speaking to another teacher that now has three more of our Foreign Language Department on board to use Second Life.
Students who have recently completed a unit on planetary science were charged with the task of designing a project, to culminate their unit on planetary science. The required elements of the project design were collaboration, creativity, and teamwork in order that in some way the unique knowledge they had gained from their research was synthesized into a greater understanding– to see relationships and just how the pieces fit. Each child had focused their research on one planet, or the sun, or stars. They were advised to keep it simple since this was their first project in Second Life and they decided to build models of the solar system. As the four classes proceeded, they ran across problems with duplicate planets being assigned to the same sun- so they allowed for this by adding a last day discussion where they would justify both the dimensions and placement of their planet in relationship to the anchor sun, and decide which was most correct. I have spent a good deal of time “cleaning up” stray planets, moons and prims that didn’t quite make it into orbit but the kids have independently mastered many more skills than those that were originally designed into the unit. Next week we will finish texturizing, adding rotation and orbit scripts and remove the “target line” used for establishing basic placement. Not exact science- but the conversations going on (and we know it’s ALL about the conversation) have been fantastic. Moving beyond the, “Hey, Get your Mercury out of the way of my Venus,” the kids have been sharing facts, figures, and myths associated with their planets….they are teaching each other…they are sharing their expertise…they are the experts. Awesome job kids!
[11:10] Kythera SMSTrekker: most teens make da mistake of not keepin their credit info secure
[11:10] Shanka SMSTrekker: and credit cards dont have fixed amount
[11:10] Shanka SMSTrekker: tummy
[11:10] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Yeah, and most can’t get out of debt
[11:10] Zerlin SMSTrekker: for a loooong time
[11:10] Joella SMSTrekker: yea and without a fixed amount they can spend a ton and get into alot of trouble
[11:10] Centes SMSTrekker: teens should have a credit if they have a job that can pay the credit card bill
[11:10] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: what if their cars break down and they need a place to stay and food for theior tummioes
[11:11] Zerlin SMSTrekker: They have to watch what they spend on it though
[11:11] Kythera SMSTrekker: also most kids dont hav a job that could pay huge credit card bills
[11:11] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Most aren’t that bright
[11:11] Stateira SMSTrekker: and if you lose cash, thats it, its gone. but if you lose a credit card, you can call your carrier andcancel your account so you arent charged with purchases youdidnt make
[11:11] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: true
[11:11] Stateira SMSTrekker: mhmm(:
[11:11] Centes SMSTrekker: This convo is intense
[11:11] Kythera SMSTrekker: in sum ways thats ok but stil….
[11:11] Shanka SMSTrekker: double a is very irrespnsible and i cant
c him have the responisbility to have a credit card
[11:12] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: credit cards are a symbol of responibility and teens need to feel good bout themselves
[11:12] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: TOP IT
[11:12] Kythera SMSTrekker: but…would a kid feel good if they went
into debt?
[11:12] Zerlin SMSTrekker: It’s irresponsable to give them that “reponsibility” Harrison
[11:12] Joella SMSTrekker: teens may feel goood but they will relize they spent more money with a credit card then they could of with cash
[11:12] Stateira SMSTrekker: well never mind feeling good, what happens if theres an emergencey and you dont have any money on you?
[11:13] Centes SMSTrekker: Credit cards are something someone with trust can only handle
[11:13] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: but they will feel responsible and try not to get into debt
[11:13] Joella SMSTrekker: then how about debit cards in case of emergencies. that way its money they have
[11:13] Kythera SMSTrekker: yeah but wat if they make a huge mistake
[11:13] Shanka SMSTrekker: umm i like money
[11:14] Stateira SMSTrekker: well if they make a mistake, they’ll have tofix it. theyget a learning experianceout of it
[11:14] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: then they are in trouble but credit cards are important for teens
[11:14] Kythera SMSTrekker: yeah but do you like money y
ou have to bac w/ interest?
[11:14] Joella SMSTrekker: yea but th
eir credit score will be bad and then they will end up paying more because of the higher interest
[11:14] Centes SMSTrekker: Credit cards these days are the safe way to keep money
[11:14] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: thats great5 double a
[11:14] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Don’t forget those high interest rates….. o_O
[11:14] Kythera SMSTrekker: so r debit cards
[11:14] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Debit is b
etter.
[11:15] Zerlin SMSTrekker: It’s safer
[11:15] Kythera SMSTrekker: thank u!!
[11:15] Shanka SMSTrekker: credit cards get kids into debt b.e they charge such high interest rates and kids think they r cool b.e they have it and think they r rich when they arent
[11:15] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Exactly Shanka
[11:15] Joella SMSTrekker: safe and c
onvienent yes but more dangerous. and credit cards could cost you alot of money
[11:15] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: yes but the longer they have credit cards the more expierenced they become and then they will have a better credit score
[11:15] Kythera SMSTrekker: very tru…thx shanka
[11:15] Stateira SMSTrekker: actually
, teens w/ credit cards qualify for favorable interests on allll types of loans
[11:15] Centes SMSTrekker: teens have other options like having a low credit limit
[11:15] Shanka SMSTrekker: cash is
like a bank account r the safest and credit cards are like stocks very risky
[11:15] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: not if they use them right
[11:15] Stateira SMSTrekker: not necessarily
[11:16] Zerlin SMSTrekker: But teens often don’t
[11:16] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: well no
w they are educated
[11:16] Zerlin SMSTrekker: They don’t have the minds of adults yet
[11:16] Stateira SMSTrekker: if they have a fixed limit on the credit card, they cant get into debt
[11:16] Joella SMSTrekker: teens often go on a spending spree and then they are up to their ears with debt
[11:16] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: agree
d
[11:16] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: wit stat
[11:16] Centes SMSTrekker: Shanka do u feel teens shouldnt have crredit cards b/c most teens relay on parents for money
[11:16] Shanka SMSTrekker: yes s
o let the adults keep the credit cards and let kids borrow it when they need to
[11:17] Zerlin SMSTrekker: You can still overspend thou
gh, right?
[11:17] Zerlin SMSTrekker: With fixed credit
[11:17] Kythera SMSTrekker: if teens make mistakes with their credit card….the lower their credit score and reduce the ability 2 obtain credit
[11:17] Shanka SMSTrekker: no how
[11:17] Joella SMSTrekker: but credit c
ards don’t have limits. they are limitless amount of money and this would lead to you owing alot of money
[11:17] Kythera SMSTrekker: tru
[11:17] Zerlin SMSTrekker: veru tru
[11:17] Zerlin SMSTrekker: *very
[11:17] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: some jobs require credit cards in order to qualify
[11:17] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Jobs for teens?
[11:17] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: and same with loans
[11:17] Stateira SMSTrekker: if teens can
maintain a good credit history, you’ll obtain lower auto and homeowners insurance premiums
[11:17] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: yes
[11:17] Kythera SMSTrekker: yeah…4 teens?…i dont think so
[11:18] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Liike what?
[11:18] Stateira SMSTrekker: so you can actually save money with credit cards
[11:18] Joella SMSTrekker: yea but it
is harder to get loans if you have a bad credit history
[11:18] Shanka SMSTrekker: yes so kids should just be trusted with money (cash) and let kids use credit cards from their parents when they
REALLY need it like we said before kids dont have adult minds yet
[11:18] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: like if they want a college loan or a car loan
[11:18] Centes SMSTrekker: Zerlin do u believe that a parent should have trust in there child even if there irresponsible
[11:18] Kythera SMSTrekker: but we r tlakin bout kids our age….
[11:18] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: tell the
m
[11:18] Zerlin SMSTrekker: no not really
[11:19] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Why shou
ld they trust them?
[11:19] Kythera SMSTrekker: i wouldnt
[11:19] Shanka SMSTrekker: i disagree
[11:19] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: ok
[11:19] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Cassy will represent the disagree
[11:19] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Or Shanka
[11:19] Kythera SMSTrekker: yeah!!
!!
[11:19] Stateira SMSTrekker: well they should be given a spending limit in the beginning, but as they get older they get more respnsiblee
[11:20] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Doesn’t mean they won’t overspend
[11:20] Kythera SMSTrekker: tahts
tru…but kids our age want 2 spend
[11:20] Stateira SMSTrekker: yes it does
[11:20] Shanka SMSTrekker: actually cassy can take stand
[11:20] Stateira SMSTrekker: if theyre given aspending limit, they CANT go over it
[11:20] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: In conclusion, we feel that teens should have credit cards becuase if they get into an emergency like if their car breaks down, they need to buy food, a hotel room and maybe pay for the car to get fixed and they dont carr
y around cash like that
[11:20] Joella SMSTrekker: in conclusion we believe that kids should not have credit cards because they can get into a lot of debt, sometimes they are irresponisble, they might go on a spending spree and they will have bad credit history so they won’t be able to get loans in the future.
[11:20] Stateira SMSTrekker: cant**
[11:21] Shanka SMSTrekker: pyrhha plz spell right
[11:21] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: als
o it will give them expierence with credit cards and bills for the future
[11:21] Zerlin SMSTrekker: Are we done?
[11:21] Stateira SMSTrekker: y
epp
[11:21] Kythera SMSTrekker: no wait
[11:21] Shanka SMSTrekker: nice job everyone
[11:21] Zerlin SMSTrekker: ye
ah nice job
[11:21] Kythera SMSTrekker: stopp wait
[11:22] Joella SMSTrekker: and are we really that resbonsible?? sometimes moeny is indespensible to us because our parents could just pay for us. those aren’t the kind of peop,e who sdould have a credit card
[11:22] Pyrrha SMSTrekker: k
[11:22] Zerlin SMSTrekker: should we stop now?
[11:22] Shanka SMSTrekker: yes
s
[11:22] Zerlin SMSTrekker: ok
[11:22] Kythera SMSTrekker: sure
[11:26] Platform-Five whispers: Platform-Five now descending.
[11:26] Stateira SMSTrekker: well…that wasfun…
The topic for the 8th grade class debate was whether or not teens should be allowed to have credit cards.
POD 2
[10:03] Platform-Two whispers: Platform-Two now ascending.
[10:06] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: look outside the pod
[10:06] Titania SMSTrekker: ik
[10:06] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: someone start the debate
[10:07] Euphemia SMSTrekker: do u think peopl should have credit cards
[10:07] Titania SMSTrekker: yes i do
[10:07] Bondia SMSTrekker: not teens
[10:07] Titania SMSTrekker: yes they should
[10:07] Nora SMSTrekker: yes i do
[10:07] Bondia SMSTrekker: they would spend o much money nd not pay it back
[10:07] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: why do u think teens should have credit cards titania
[10:07] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: or anyone
[10:07] Titania SMSTrekker: responobility
[10:08] Bondia SMSTrekker: teens dont have much resposibleity…..
[10:08] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: what about responsibility
[10:08] Titania SMSTrekker: u dont know that
[10:08] Nora SMSTrekker: they can be responsible if you make them pay
[10:08] Bondia SMSTrekker: noooo cause they dont have a job so they cant pay it back
[10:08] Euphemia SMSTrekker: they shouldnt have credit cards
[10:08] Titania SMSTrekker: it will teach them resposoblitiy
[10:08] Bandusia SMSTrekker: i think that young adults such as teens should not have credit cards bc of the financhal slop . if adulst with a greater income can not pay off a bill how can a teen?
[10:09] Bandusia SMSTrekker: no bc they arent responsible
[10:09] Bondia SMSTrekker: but teens dont have money like parents do
[10:09] Nora SMSTrekker: it depends on the teen
[10:10] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: money is earned with responsibility. you wouldnt give a teen $3,000 in cash. whats the differencce
[10:10] Nora SMSTrekker: no difference it depends on the person
[10:10] Titania SMSTrekker: they could be not every teen is irrresponsible
[10:10] Bondia SMSTrekker: its more for credit cards
[10:10] Bandusia SMSTrekker: bc if the teen is given a credit card and spends so much they cant pay it off the bill is going to be increased or the parenst will be paying for it
[10:10] Euphemia SMSTrekker: yes
[10:10] Bondia SMSTrekker: no
[10:10] Euphemia SMSTrekker: ok
[10:10] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: Teens must learn that credit is expensive and that they will end up spending much more money on item that they would otherwise need because of interest.( Randy Scott helium.com)
[10:11] Xenia SMSTrekker: but sometimes if you make mistakes with your credit card your interest rate can increase and then you have to pay more money in the end
[10:11] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes
[10:11] Renate SMSTrekker: yes but some teens get into sucj bad debt that they wil be like 60 by the time its all paid off so over that time they rnt going to buy anthing else anyway so even if they learn the lessinb they wont use it
[10:11] Zwetana SMSTrekker: well if the parents know that the teen is responsible enuf 2 hav 1 then they can giv them 1
[10:11] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yea
[10:11] Alesana SMSTrekker: its to big of a responsibility for a teen
[10:12] Brangane SMSTrekker: no matter how responsible they are, they need to be an adult, mature. And if they get a credit card, and lets say they loose it. it takes a while to pay it off
[10:12] Bandusia SMSTrekker: u to
[10:13] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: no interst
[10:13] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: interest*
[10:13] Titania SMSTrekker: yes but its new to them so they will make mistakes
[10:13] Bondia SMSTrekker: no
[10:13] Euphemia SMSTrekker: yeah thats true
[10:13] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: $6,000 mistakes
[10:13] Nora SMSTrekker: thay will but as long as thay are not drastic
[10:13] Titania SMSTrekker: so
[10:13] Bandusia SMSTrekker: the avrige debt for the american is 20000 $ imagin the avrige if teens had that
[10:13] Titania SMSTrekker: omgz thats lots
[10:13] Nora SMSTrekker: so
[10:14] Metcalfia SMSTrekker: its the average debt of a college grad without tuition or car is $6,000
[10:14] Titania SMSTrekker: so so
[10:14] Nora SMSTrekker: how old r they
[10:14] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: well you have to b the one that makes the right choice we all no right from wrong
[10:14] Brangane SMSTrekker: yes but its yerresponsibility
[10:14] Zwetana SMSTrekker: well then those parents hav their own problems anyway
[10:14] Leonora SMSTrekker: because they think that you can handle the freedom
[10:14] Alesana SMSTrekker: it is the parents fault but its not completely
[10:14] Xenia SMSTrekker: well if you dont have a job you shouldnt have one because your nnot earning anything just spending
[10:14] Renate SMSTrekker: just b/c u KNOW right from wrong doesnt mean u will DO wats right
[10:15] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes
[10:15] Brangane SMSTrekker: but stillits YOUR responsibility, if you really think that you could handle it, thats your problem but if you loose it, dont blame anyone but yourself.
[10:15] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: you learn from your mistakes
[10:15] Cava SMSTrekker: exactley
[10:15] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah you will stillspend money no matter what. even if you are responsible
[10:15] Brangane SMSTrekker: but you wouldnt make mistakes if you choose the right desicion
[10:15] Zwetana SMSTrekker: ok but they are still alowed 2 hav one, its not like its against the law
[10:15] Alesana SMSTrekker: but u shoodnt want to make a huge mistake like that
[10:15] Renate SMSTrekker: ur rght b4 u spend anything u shud have an incmoe
[10:16] Alesana SMSTrekker: you shouldnt have to lean the hard way
[10:16] Brangane SMSTrekker: exactly
[10:16] Renate SMSTrekker: y shud they have 1 just b/c its not agantst the law doesnt mean they can handle it
[10:16] Zwetana SMSTrekker: ok well then parents shud giv RESPONSIBLE kids credit cards
[10:16] Cava SMSTrekker: why even have a cc anyway it just makes you take advantage
[10:16] Leonora SMSTrekker: thats the only way you learn though
[10:16] Alesana SMSTrekker: thats why when yyour a mature adult you should have a credt card
[10:16] Zwetana SMSTrekker: and MATURE kids
[10:16] Brangane SMSTrekker: yes i agrede
[10:16] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah and why would you want to spend so much money inthe end if you got things that you dont really even need
[10:16] Brangane SMSTrekker: but adults are much more mature then kids
[10:16] Brangane SMSTrekker: comeonm
[10:17] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: you should b mature but if your not mature mayb it can teach them a lesson to b mature
[10:17] Renate SMSTrekker: sometimes though people can make the same mistake over and over again and not learn the lesson wat about those people
[10:17] Renate SMSTrekker: they’ll never learn
[10:17] Alesana SMSTrekker: thats a very hard lesson
[10:17] Alesana SMSTrekker: you shouldnt have to leanr that way
[10:17] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: but if they are paying the amout they will learn
[10:17] Renate SMSTrekker: and even if u lear the lesson its eaiser sed then done
[10:17] Alesana SMSTrekker: theyre other ways of learning that dont cause u debt
[10:17] Zwetana SMSTrekker: well if they get in very bad debt, dont u think theyll be smart enuf not 2 do t again cuz they know the consequences
[10:18] Cava SMSTrekker: yes
[10:18] Cava SMSTrekker: yes
[10:18] Brangane SMSTrekker: listen, i think that no matter how mature u are, its for ADULTS not teens. teens are sure to loose the credit card. IT TAKES SOOOLONG TO PAY IT OFF
[10:18] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes!
[10:18] Brangane SMSTrekker: yeah(:
[10:18] Renate SMSTrekker: just b/c they know they made a mistake and not to do i again its eaiser sed then done
[10:18] Xenia SMSTrekker: you shouldnt have to make the mistake of spending too much mnoneyto learn how to use a credit card
[10:18] Zwetana SMSTrekker: CANCEL IT
[10:18] Leonora SMSTrekker: it is alo posible for an adu.lt to lose their credit card also
[10:18] Zwetana SMSTrekker: IF U LOSE IT CANCEL IT
[10:19] Brangane SMSTrekker: but if you cancel it,u still havhe to pay itoff
[10:19] Renate SMSTrekker: we r not supossed to be talking about if u lose it or not wat does that have 2 do with teens and CC
[10:19] Zwetana SMSTrekker: after that nuthin well happen
[10:19] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah and its not like you will only make the mistake once.
[10:19] Brangane SMSTrekker: theres no point
[10:19] Cava SMSTrekker: and u will be so far into debt yr partents cant help u out
[10:19] Alesana SMSTrekker: yeah
[10:19] Renate SMSTrekker: exactly ur ;ikley 2 ake the same mistake over and over
[10:19] Brangane SMSTrekker: ya
[10:19] Renate SMSTrekker: u may not learn
[10:19] Zwetana SMSTrekker: well then maybe they shudnt have givin it 2 u in the first place
[10:19] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yes they can they can look after you and see how much your spending
[10:19] Renate SMSTrekker: EXACTLY
[10:20] Renate SMSTrekker: thats wat i’m saying they shudnt have 1
[10:20] Alesana SMSTrekker: sometimes kids get the credit cards themselves
[10:20] Brangane SMSTrekker: exaclt zwetana
[10:20] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah and then you end up just wasting even more money
[10:20] Alesana SMSTrekker: not th parents
[10:20] Zwetana SMSTrekker: well im just sayin y wud a parent giv u a cc and not help u even a litle
[10:20] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: not exactly
[10:20] Brangane SMSTrekker: no matter who gives it to you, its still your responsibility
[10:20] Alesana SMSTrekker: its not there problem
[10:20] Brangane SMSTrekker: exactly
[10:20] Alesana SMSTrekker: if they dont give it to you
[10:20] Alesana SMSTrekker: they should
[10:21] Alesana SMSTrekker: but not all parents do
[10:21] Zwetana SMSTrekker: they shud giv it 2 u?
[10:21] Cava SMSTrekker: mmmhhh
[10:21] Alesana SMSTrekker: nd where does that leave you?
[10:21] Alesana SMSTrekker: in debt
[10:21] Alesana SMSTrekker: for years
[10:21] Cava SMSTrekker: yea
[10:21] Renate SMSTrekker: they will help u a little but that doesn t mean buy everythin nd if ur parent sayd they’ll help u magority of the people will take advatgae
[10:21] Brangane SMSTrekker: my parents no for sure they would not take a chance like that
[10:21] Zwetana SMSTrekker: not all the time tho
[10:21] Brangane SMSTrekker: exactly
[10:21] Renate SMSTrekker: xactly many parent wudnt
[10:21] Zwetana SMSTrekker: not evry1 in the world always goes in2 debt
[10:21] Jess SMSTrekker: credit cards are bad for kids
[10:21] Alesana SMSTrekker: they r
[10:21] Zwetana SMSTrekker: then they wudnt hav ccs 4 any1
[10:21] Renate SMSTrekker: it just doesnt make sence 4 them 2 have 1 its not nessacary
[10:21] Brangane SMSTrekker: they are bad
[10:21] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: we r not talking about kids we r talking about teens
[10:22] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeahh its really a waste of money to give an irresponsible teen a credit card
[10:22] Zwetana SMSTrekker: i think we all know that
[10:22] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes
[10:22] Zwetana SMSTrekker: its bout teens
[10:22] Renate SMSTrekker: same thine teens kids we’re not talkiing abut 6 year olds
[10:22] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: no its not a waste of time if you learn a lesson\
[10:22] Leonora SMSTrekker: they should have ccs because if thye dont go into debt as a teen you probably will as an adult’
[10:22] Cava SMSTrekker: and adults
[10:22] Renate SMSTrekker: if thats wat u mean
[10:22] Brangane SMSTrekker: okay but it rlly is a waste of money, if your going to want a credit card, why would you pay MORE money on yourself when your parent has one?
[10:22] Alesana SMSTrekker: most teens will only spend it on luxury items
[10:22] Cava SMSTrekker: yea why not use cash
[10:23] Platform-Four: You have been paged by Bondia SMSTrekker on Platform-Four
[10:23] Brangane SMSTrekker: obviouslythey have the money for you. so no need for a credit card, just use cash
[10:23] Zwetana SMSTrekker: even adults go in2 debt so its the same 4 adults so do u think adults shudnt hav ccs either??
[10:23] Jess SMSTrekker: not all ppl are going to be in debt
[10:23] Renate SMSTrekker: eacly teens dont need CC it just is an unnessacry risk
[10:23] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yea you havea point
[10:23] Brangane SMSTrekker: exactly
[10:23] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yea they do
[10:23] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah and then youend up buying what you want and you buy to much
[10:23] Alesana SMSTrekker: most TEENS will be
[10:23] Jess SMSTrekker: not really
[10:23] Zwetana SMSTrekker: and wat about adults 2??
[10:23] Brangane SMSTrekker: teens will take advantage and buy NEEDLESS things on a cc
[10:23] Renate SMSTrekker: yea adults go into debt but it will be even worse wuth teens
[10:23] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah teens should use cash not credit cards
[10:23] Zwetana SMSTrekker: did u learn about sumthin called the great depression
[10:23] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: adults can b as bad as teens
[10:24] Jess SMSTrekker: true
[10:24] Brangane SMSTrekker: they dont always go ibnto debt
[10:24] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes they can
[10:24] Cava SMSTrekker: very
[10:24] Zwetana SMSTrekker: that was caused partly by adults going in2 debt
[10:24] Alesana SMSTrekker: but
[10:24] Renate SMSTrekker: yes the great depessiion 1 of the main causes was CC
[10:24] Alesana SMSTrekker: teens dont have the maturity adults have
[10:24] Brangane SMSTrekker: but not ALL ADULTS GO INTO DEBT
[10:24] Jess SMSTrekker: CC are fine & thats final!
[10:24] Brangane SMSTrekker: NO!
[10:24] Leonora SMSTrekker: yeha but teens didnt have ccs it was the adullts
[10:24] Jess SMSTrekker: rar
[10:24] Zwetana SMSTrekker: and not all teens go in2 debt]
[10:24] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: the great depression was a long time ago and that cant happen again because of they new deals
[10:25] Alesana SMSTrekker: not true
[10:25] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yea
[10:25] Brangane SMSTrekker: not at all
[10:25] Alesana SMSTrekker: our economy rite now is terrible
[10:25] Alesana SMSTrekker: were one step away from a depression
[10:25] Alesana SMSTrekker: were in a recession
[10:25] Brangane SMSTrekker: exactly
[10:25] Zwetana SMSTrekker: no were not
[10:25] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: but there isnt going to b a great depression
[10:25] Xenia SMSTrekker: so i guess nomatter who you are you should watch what you buywith a credit card and be carefulv with whatyou spend
[10:25] Renate SMSTrekker: but thats not the piont the piont is it is bad enough wuth adults going into debt we donot need to ad teens into the mix also
[10:25] Alesana SMSTrekker: we r
[10:25] Zwetana SMSTrekker: were far waway from that
[10:25] Brangane SMSTrekker: why spend more money on needless things? even a credit card for teens is NEEDLESS!
[10:25] Jess SMSTrekker: credit cards are fine for teens
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: yeah!
[10:26] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: they r
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: they arent
[10:26] Leonora SMSTrekker: yeah
[10:26] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yes they r
[10:26] Brangane SMSTrekker: this isnt just responsibility we r talkinq about we are talkinq about age
[10:26] Renate SMSTrekker: Y, Y R they fine 4 teens???????
[10:26] Jess SMSTrekker: if you think credit cards are fine say yes
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: i meant yeah bout something else not bout teend having ccs
[10:26] Leonora SMSTrekker: the young people need responcibility
[10:26] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: and some adults act lik they are 10
[10:26] Jess SMSTrekker: ys
[10:26] Jess SMSTrekker: yes
[10:26] Xenia SMSTrekker: yeah but not all teens are responsible
[10:26] Renate SMSTrekker: hats not a debate u have to say Y!
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: they will have debt!
[10:26] Zwetana SMSTrekker: but not all ppl of the same age have the same responsiblity sum r more mature
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: tons of it
[10:26] Alesana SMSTrekker: they shoodnt learn the hardway
[10:26] Brangane SMSTrekker: im not chanqinq my oppinion
[10:27] Jess SMSTrekker: adults have the same risks as kids
[10:27] Alesana SMSTrekker: noooo
[10:27] Zwetana SMSTrekker: ok then ud hav 2
[10:27] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yes they do
[10:27] Zwetana SMSTrekker: ya hey do
[10:27] Zwetana SMSTrekker: they*
[10:27] Renate SMSTrekker: i still think teens shudnt have CC…….thanks guys 4 a good debate!
[10:27] Brangane SMSTrekker: nobecause what u dont understand is that they aere MUCHH MORE MATURE THEN US.THEY HAVE MUCH MORE EXPERIENCE
[10:27] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: not relly
[10:27] Alesana SMSTrekker: YES!!!!!!!!!
[10:27] Alesana SMSTrekker: yes they do
[10:28] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: no
[10:28] Alesana SMSTrekker: they lived longer then us
[10:28] Brangane SMSTrekker: same thanks. (:
[10:28] Alesana SMSTrekker: they experieced more
[10:28] Brangane SMSTrekker: …
[10:28] Alesana SMSTrekker: experienced*
[10:28] Xenia SMSTrekker: i dnot think they should have them.theyd waste too much money on wants
[10:28] Brangane SMSTrekker: yes.
[10:28] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: that doesnt matter
[10:28] Brangane SMSTrekker: yes it does!
[10:28] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: no
[10:28] Leonora SMSTrekker: i agree that teens should have credit cards because it gives them freedom, responcibility and experience and if they go into debt thye learn from their mistakes
[10:28] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: yes it doews
[10:28] Renate SMSTrekker: thanks guys
[10:28] Zwetana SMSTrekker: yes good
[10:28] Alesana SMSTrekker: thank you
[10:28] Jess SMSTrekker: credit casrds aref ne
[10:28] Alesana SMSTrekker: for a good debate(:
[10:28] Xenia SMSTrekker: thanks.
[10:28] Proxy Hillburn is Online
[10:29] Jess SMSTrekker: no
[10:29] Brangane SMSTrekker: cc are not for teens but alright.
[10:29] Renate SMSTrekker: i’ll do the desagree
[10:29] Brangane SMSTrekker: thanks guys. (:
[10:29] Xenia SMSTrekker: okay
[10:29] Lindemannia SMSTrekker: they are
[10:29] Jess SMSTrekker: okay!!!
[10:30] Bandusia SMSTrekker: in conclusion of teens having credit cards i think they should not be given the responsibilty of such money. the debt is verry destructing iit could change your live for ever. responsibilty is tackin advantige from aduts but we need to give our children a good futrue.. thank u for your respect every one
[10:31] Titania SMSTrekker is Offline
[10:33] Bondia SMSTrekker is Offline
[10:33] Platform-Four whispers: Platform-Four now descending.
Family and Consumer Science teacher, Gail Yodowitz, had her students debate the issue of the media’s impact on kids’ food choices – and as always, the kids had some pretty interesting things to say!
POD 2 [8:03] Platform-Two whispers: Platform-Two now ascending.
[8:04] Lei Hillburn: Hello will
[8:04] Lei Hillburn: We are here today to discuss tv food advertising.
[8:04] Quachita Hillburn: hi
[8:04] Arkansas Hillburn: i agree that tv influences a child’s diet
[8:04] Lei Hillburn: i disagre
[8:05] Quachita Hillburn: i agree
[8:05] Banalore Hillburn: I also agree that tv influences a childs food choices
[8:05] Lei Hillburn: what about you banalore
[8:05] Lei Hillburn: The adds don’t buy the products for the kids
[8:05] Arkansas Hillburn: Children see about 4,000 to 6,000 tv ads a year, and 4,000 of them are about junk food
[8:05] Lei Hillburn: no matter how hard they try : )
[8:06] Banalore Hillburn: some kids get addicted to tv and cannot stop
[8:06] Quachita Hillburn: true also obisiti comes in
[8:06] Lei Hillburn: Parents are the ones with the final decision
[8:07] Banalore Hillburn: yah, an tv makes kids think that the food is cool with enjoying music and funny characters
[8:07] Lei Hillburn: so its there decision on what they buy for thier children
[8:07] Quachita Hillburn: it comes in because kid just sit and wach tv and body fat stores
[8:07] Arkansas Hillburn: well sometimes parents don’t let them buy products but there are patterns in purchasing
[8:07] Lei Hillburn: yes that’s where i’m coming from!
[8:07] Quachita Hillburn: yes and its not right
[8:07] Arkansas Hillburn: Most ads do not promote healthy foods
[8:07] Lei Hillburn: no
[8:08] Lei Hillburn: and the parents buy this stuff
[8:08] Banalore Hillburn: some parents are not being as serious as they should be when it coms to food choices
[8:08] Arkansas Hillburn: i never said that all ads do
[8:08] Quachita Hillburn: parents should buy healthy food 4 them and not select non healthy
[8:08] Lei Hillburn: and their not the ones who watch the advertising
[8:08] Banalore Hillburn: yah they shood
[8:08] Arkansas Hillburn: so it is kind of the parents fault
[8:08] Lei Hillburn: exactly
[8:09] Banalore Hillburn: yes, it’s the way they treat their children
[8:09] Quachita Hillburn: true but u want 2 live long and by eating healthy it helps
[8:09] Lei Hillburn: the parents buy it but don’t watch the adds so the adds don’t persuade them
[8:09] Banalore Hillburn: yes it does
[8:09] Banalore Hillburn: by doing that you will b strong and have more energy
[8:10] Quachita Hillburn: yes you can play sports and have fun
[8:10] Lei Hillburn: Although i agree that healthy foods should be more advertised
[8:10] Banalore Hillburn: yes they shood more than junk food
[8:10] Arkansas Hillburn: I think once a child sees a food ad on tv they crave that product
[8:10] Quachita Hillburn: ya then kid will eat better
[8:11] Landro Hillburn: hi im new im agree
[8:11] Lei Hillburn: landro what position are you
[8:11] Landro Hillburn: agree
[8:11] Quachita Hillburn: so do u have any thind 2 say
[8:11] Lei Hillburn: im really outnumbered here now
[8:11] Landro Hillburn: yes
[8:11] Lei Hillburn: go back and grab someone who’s disagree
[8:11] Quachita Hillburn: then say ur mind
[8:12] Lei Hillburn: but i can type faster than all of you in second life
[8:12] Arkansas Hillburn: 90% of United States TV ads are about food. That there has to say something for itself
[8:12] Lei Hillburn: lol this will be a tough battle
[8:12] Landro Hillburn: ahh yea rite
[8:12] Landro Hillburn: w,e,
[8:13] Lei Hillburn: but maybe the best diplomat
[8:13] Banalore Hillburn: tv people try to convinice children so they cood get money
[8:13] Lei Hillburn: win
[8:13] Arkansas Hillburn: ya money is the big thing in ads
[8:13] Lei Hillburn: but the parents buy the products without even watching the adds
[8:13] Lei Hillburn: !!!
[8:13] Banalore Hillburn: yep
[8:13] Landro Hillburn: food safty and intervention postivly in fulenes colage kids
[8:14] Quachita Hillburn: yes that is why people shold advertise healthy foods
[8:14] Lei Hillburn: hmm
[8:14] Lei Hillburn: sorry about that
[8:14] Banalore Hillburn: well it influences more children becuz they watch tv a lot!!!!!
[8:14] Landro Hillburn: food choices during teen years may influens canser risk later in lif
[8:15] Landro Hillburn: ew
[8:15] Arkansas Hillburn: parents should cut down on their child tv time
[8:15] Landro Hillburn: i know rite
[8:15] Banalore Hillburn: yes and make them go outside to get some energy
[8:15] Lei Hillburn shouts: but the parents buy the products without watching the adds!!!
[8:15] Arkansas Hillburn: that way there will not be a lot of unhealthy food products in there house
[8:15] Quachita Hillburn: 4 en example the fruts they put when they say real fruit juice its true
[8:16] Banalore Hillburn: yah and also they shood lower the amolunt of food they show on tv
[8:16] Landro Hillburn: yes they should
[8:17] Quachita Hillburn: yi think they shold lower the pice on healthy food and raise the price on non
[8:18] Lei Hillburn: kids should know what food choices through shool and FACS
[8:18] Banalore Hillburn: yes and reduce the amount of junk foods needed
[8:18] Landro Hillburn: i donbt have anymore facts abotu this i only had 2
[8:18] Quachita Hillburn: yes the shold also give more choices of healthy foods a schools
[8:18] Banalore Hillburn: but their parents also need to try to tell them
