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
Old Indigo, AKA Knowclue Kidd on Main Grid, and Marianne Malmstrom, is the Technology Teacher at The Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood, New Jersey. Here is Old Indigo as she sets first foot on ToMorrow Island, the first neighboring educational sim to Ramapo Islands and our gateway to future collaboration.
Although our islands are physically adjacent – we are still not able to truly interact…Baby steps…You’ll note Struveana made his feelings very clear about this by raising a fence and wearing a militaristic avatar…
Here it is — a true labor of love! When I was asked to Keynote this event, I simply asked Vicki Davis if it mightn’t be a better idea to have the kids create the keynote? (note to self – be careful what you pray for!) My Tech Club took up the challenge. I outlined the project and showed them Wikinomics and Grown Up Digital by Don Tapscott. Then we watched his video, The Dumbest Generation, and that really got them talking! I started writing everything they said on the Promethean board–and prompted them with things like “You sound angry – are you? What would you change? How would it look? As the kids brainstormed the script – and that is a post unto itself… I kept taking them out to resources like the Net Generation Education Project Website, at Don Tapscott’s video about education and then we went out to You Tube to look at some others. We looked at other videos about education in Canada- and about 21st century learning. They had already seen videos from Mike Wesch and offshoots- and they were already pretty well versed in discussions of this nature – After all, they are my pilot audience whenever I have to create a presentation – and they always tell me straight when something is off.
I might also add that I spent a great deal of time with Bernajean Porter and after watching her coach my kids last year and attending her storytelling camp last summer, I had learned quite a few skills to really coach kids to get to the heart of the story – or the message in this case. Echoing back to them what I heard them say – would get them to revise it – fine tune it and make it clear and hopefully powerful. It was really easy for them to generate a list of “complaints” and to talk about what they didn’t like but I kept reminding them that we needed to be part of the solution. So when they contributed something I would ask what the solution might look like – and we’d do some word play with it – That prompting seemed to get them on track with some of the positive comments. At one point I remember saying, “this reads like you think that your teachers wake up in the morning and start thinking of ways to make your life miserable!” What’s the flip side? — What are the teachers dealing with?
Then we started the arduous task of filming. The script was in a “rough cut” sequence and every student recorded every line. Hours were spent in the TV studio where we all learned quite a bit about filming, lighting, sound, etc.. and if you knew what landed on the “cutting room floor” (or, in this case, the trash bin in iMovie!) it would amaze you. The whole “future simile” section got wiped – (*the future is like a ball rolling down a hill- if you don’t grab it right away you might never catch up” – ” “the classroom shows us yesterday but the computer shows us the future” “the future is a bright white light shining outside” and many many more just didn’t make it into the script we ended up with because we just couldn’t fit it all in. We were aiming at 3 minutes and were already way past that. The creativity of my students amazed me! The kids started to ad lib- and I let them. “School should be more like a game…” was an ad lib— But, as always, we were under an enormous time crunch (and I take full responsibility for that as I had NO idea how time-consuming the process would be-duh!) so we had to keep it as simple and as “uncluttered” as possible. This was probably a blessing in disguise as I feel we would have ended up with a full length epic had we not had a deadline.
Then it was time to start the editing and we solicited the remarkable talent of Marianne Malmstrom- you may know her as the rainbow-winged samaritan in Second Life, “Knowclue Kidd”. We started chopping up the raw footage until we had every line grouped and listed in an excel sheet. We starting pulling them in and moving them around – trying to make sure that reach student was represented and that the stronger lines were used repeatedly. The kids wanted their Second Life footage used as well and always up for a challenge, Knowclue started inserting the machinima that her students at The Elisabeth Morrow School had filmed in Quest Atlantis and coached my kids in Second Life to film theirs. Putting it all together came down to (and slightly past) the wire. A snow day came to our rescue and we were able to devote some uninterrupted hours editing, and filming last minute footage with my kids logged into Ramapo Islands on their “day off”. Finally, we added original music, “Harpsicord” created by a former Suffern Middle School student, Larry Bordowitz. Seeing the power of their film, and their message, the kids are already asking to start a new video-this time about Second Life and video games!
Most importantly, the kids reported feeling empowered, and that they had stayed true to their original message: The future belongs to them – and we are charged with the grave responsibility of getting them prepared for it.
Thanks to all of those who take up the torch each day—you know who you are! Keep the fire burning!
I sat in on a pod-discussion of 8th graders who are reading, “Of Beetles and Angels” by Mawi Asgedom.
[7:43] Ballesty SMSTeacher: thanks for sitting in, I told them you complimented their discussion and the other groups were saying, ” Why didn’t she sit in on our discussion?!” I love when they compete for praise & positive reinforcement! Here is the chat log (unedited):
Jess SMSTrekker: GO TO YOUR DESIGNATED DISCUSSION PODS AND KEEP THIS NOTE CARD OPEN SO YOU CAN DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING:
1. Define the world “culture.” What is it? What does this word
mean to you?
2. How are your family’s culture and traditions affected by where
you live?
3. What effect does your culture have on you as a person, your identity, or your self esteem?
4. How is your main character’s environment affecting how they
feel about themselves and/or their family’s culture
[7:05] Agnia SMSTrekker: culture is the way someone lives
[7:05] Jess SMSTrekker: yea and maxi was not forgetting their culture in sudan
[7:06] Agnia SMSTrekker: what do u guys think
[7:06] Agnia SMSTrekker: culture is like how you do things
[7:06] Amsen SMSTrekker: ya but he has made some changes when he came to the us like how he acts
[7:06] Agnia SMSTrekker: what foods u eat
[7:06] Agnia SMSTrekker: stuff like that
[7:06] Jess SMSTrekker: yea it’s wat u belive also
[7:06] Amsen SMSTrekker: like mawi has learned that he doesnt hve to fight like he does in sudan
[7:07] Agnia SMSTrekker: how you do things around thehouse
[7:07] Agnia SMSTrekker: what sports you play
[7:08] Agnia SMSTrekker: thats what culture is
[7:08] Chaser Brody: can you be more specific about what culture is? And how does Mawi experience “new” culture?
[7:08] Jess SMSTrekker: culture effects the way u act
[7:08] Chaser Brody: How?
[7:08] Chaser Brody: examples plz
[7:08] Agnia SMSTrekker: he eats injera bread
[7:08] Jess SMSTrekker: ur religion wat u belive!
[7:08] Amsen SMSTrekker: and the soup hnsha
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: we are relating it to mawi now
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: guys
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: he relates halloween to his holiday
[7:09] Jess SMSTrekker: they could fight in sudan but now in america they can’t1
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: whats it called again
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: yae
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: yea?
[7:09] Amsen SMSTrekker: his traditions have changed since he moved to the us before he went around saying hoyo, hoyo and now it is trick or treat
[7:09] Agnia SMSTrekker: yea*
[7:10] Agnia SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:10] Jess SMSTrekker: yup
[7:10] Agnia SMSTrekker: he remembered his holiday where they say hoyo hoyo and he pretends that halloween is that holiday
[7:10] Jess SMSTrekker: Talk about Q #4
[7:11] Agnia SMSTrekker: our families
[7:11] Agnia SMSTrekker: culture
[7:11] Amsen SMSTrekker: he tries to fit in but some kids bully him thats when he fight bak
[7:11] Amsen SMSTrekker: like when sam cornerd him in the school yard
[7:11] Agnia SMSTrekker: we live in American so we eat a lot of fast food and play a lot of baseball and other american sports
[7:11] Jess SMSTrekker: we follow our ancestors belives
[7:12] Amsen SMSTrekker: we live the american dream
[7:12] Jess SMSTrekker: yea do american stuff
[7:12] Chaser Brody: Hmmmm DO we? Do we live it or do we aim for it?
[7:12] Amsen SMSTrekker: the american way of life
[7:12] Agnia SMSTrekker: aim for it
[7:12] Chaser Brody: AHhh I see
[7:12] Amsen SMSTrekker: aim for it bc not everyone is perfect
[7:12] Agnia SMSTrekker: we try and follow it as best we can
[7:12] Jess SMSTrekker: well we want to achive different things in america b/c we have more stuff
[7:13] Amsen SMSTrekker: it is like unwritten rules that we all just do
[7:13] Agnia SMSTrekker: more opportunities
[7:13] Jess SMSTrekker: yea
[7:13] Amsen SMSTrekker: like if u dont play sports ppl think ur wierd or somethin
[7:13] Agnia SMSTrekker: we live bc we are scared about what other people thik
[7:13] Jess SMSTrekker: we aim higher than other countries
[7:13] Amsen SMSTrekker: good point jason i agree
[7:13] Agnia SMSTrekker: to many people are under peer pressure
[7:14] Amsen SMSTrekker: bc we have higher standards for ourselves
[7:14] Jess SMSTrekker: yea, wat question is this/
[7:14] Chaser Brody: So you are saying we aim higher than, CHina? India? England? Australia?
[7:14] Agnia SMSTrekker: i dont know
[7:14] Ballesty SMSTeacher: REMEMBER IF THERE IS SOMETHING YOU WANT TO DISCUSS THAT COMES UP FROM THE ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD DISCUSS IT EVEN IF YOU DON’T GET TO ALL THE QUESTIONS TODAY. YOU WILL HAVE MORE TIME NEXT WEEK TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS, SO USE YOUR TIME TO HAVE GOOD DISCUSSIONS EVEN IF THEY DRIFT AWAY FROM THE QUESTION. FEEL FREE TO REFERENCE THE BOOK WHEN ANSWERING QUESTIONS. USING THE TEXT FOR QUOTES IS SOMETHING YOU SHOULD BE DOING!
[7:14] Chaser Brody: *smiles* intresting thing to research at another time, eh?
[7:14] Jess SMSTrekker: ok
[7:14] Amsen SMSTrekker: i think that we try to put ourselves at the top
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: lets do #3
[7:15] Amsen SMSTrekker: but countries like china out work us
[7:15] Amsen SMSTrekker is Online
[7:15] Jess SMSTrekker: yea america is #1
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: they work harder i guess
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: in money
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: not hardworking
[7:15] Jess SMSTrekker: and millitary
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:15] Agnia SMSTrekker: lets do #3
[7:15] Jess SMSTrekker: ok #3
[7:15] Amsen SMSTrekker: i think that we think that we’re #1 but we aren’t making inventions as much as we use to
[7:16] Jess SMSTrekker: yea but do #3
[7:16] Amsen SMSTrekker: china is starting to creep up on us
[7:16] Agnia SMSTrekker: we almost think that we have to do things like everyone else or we wont be liked or talked to
[7:16] Jess SMSTrekker: culture on you as a person
[7:16] Jess SMSTrekker: people might judge u b/c of ur culture
[7:16] Amsen SMSTrekker: this is #3 we r talking about how we live our life and how living in aMERICA EFFECTS US
[7:17] Chaser Brody: China has more honor students than the US has students Did you know that?
[7:17] Jess SMSTrekker: ur culture effects wat people think of u
[7:17] Agnia SMSTrekker: i personally dont buy abercrombie, but generally everyone else does bc they wanna be “cool”
[7:17] Agnia SMSTrekker: people think they have to be like everyone else
[7:17] Chaser Brody: do you mean what people here in America think or what the world thinks of Americans?
[7:17] Agnia SMSTrekker: both
[7:18] Agnia SMSTrekker: and what we think of ourselves
[7:18] Amsen SMSTrekker: it is the american image that everyone is rich just like what mawi’s family thought
[7:18] Jess SMSTrekker: yea people juge you on ur clothes, hobbies and stuff
[7:18] Agnia SMSTrekker: we have a stereotype to follow almost and if u dont u are considered weird
[7:18] Chaser Brody: so – are you saying that ther is a problem inside America with how accepting or not we are of each others different cultural heritage?
[7:18] Agnia SMSTrekker: yea
[7:18] Jess SMSTrekker: yup
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: we should follow our own things and dont worry about what everyone else thinjs
[7:19] Chaser Brody: religion, ethnicity, wealth, job, race, etc?
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: thinks*
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:19] Jess SMSTrekker: but we are a nation of immigrants
[7:19] Amsen SMSTrekker: ya
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: exactly
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: so we should all have different beliefs for plenty of thing
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: s
[7:19] Jess SMSTrekker: so every 1 is differerent in the Us
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: like sports, clothes
[7:19] Chaser Brody: that brings us back to the American Dream – the melting pot was supposed to give everyone a chance to be successful? Is it happening?
[7:19] Agnia SMSTrekker: and other stuff
[7:20] Jess SMSTrekker: religion,
[7:20] Agnia SMSTrekker: sort of
[7:20] Amsen SMSTrekker: but we do we all have differnt religions and hobbies thats wat makes everyone unique
[7:20] Agnia SMSTrekker: for some people
[7:20] Jess SMSTrekker: yea
[7:20] Agnia SMSTrekker: and for others it hurts more than helps
[7:20] Agnia SMSTrekker: but everyones hobbies are pretty much the same because u wanna be “cool” or popular
[7:20] Jess SMSTrekker: in the book they are adapting to the american life, b/c they don’t fit in
[7:21] Amsen SMSTrekker: everyone has a chance in america if u get good schooling
[7:21] Agnia SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:21] Agnia SMSTrekker: they wanna fit in so they dont get beaten up
[7:21] Chaser Brody: does everyone have a chance to get good schooling?
[7:21] Jess SMSTrekker: exactly
[7:21] Agnia SMSTrekker: and so they can focus on school as much as they can
[7:21] Jess SMSTrekker: not in all parts of the US
[7:21] Agnia SMSTrekker: most people but not everyone
[7:22] Amsen SMSTrekker: ya this book is a perfect example an african kid in a refugee camp goes to america and lives on welfare then get a full scholorship to harvard
[7:22] Amsen SMSTrekker: everyone has a chance in this world
[7:22] Agnia SMSTrekker: what do u mean a perfect example of the american dream?
[7:23] Amsen SMSTrekker: it is just a matter if u take the chance and use it
[7:23] Agnia SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:23] Jess SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:23] Agnia SMSTrekker: and u focus on important things, not what people think of u because ur hobbies or sports u play
[7:23] Agnia SMSTrekker: okay lets do #4
[7:24] Chaser Brody: welll so what are the important things?
[7:24] Amsen SMSTrekker: lets do #4
[7:24] Agnia SMSTrekker: school or if you are going to get to college playing a sport
[7:24] Agnia SMSTrekker: whatever gets u to the best college
[7:24] Agnia SMSTrekker: bc better education means a better job
[7:25] Agnia SMSTrekker: which means more $ and u can live a better life
[7:25] Amsen SMSTrekker: he is taking advantage of his good schooling
[7:25] Agnia SMSTrekker: yea
[7:25] Agnia SMSTrekker: lets do #4
[7:26] Agnia SMSTrekker: mawi isnt fighting anymore like he used to because he wants to fit in and so he doenst get in trouble from his family or school
[7:27] or
yeah b/che will get in trouble more and not get a scholarship
[7:27] Amsen SMSTrekker: wat do u think his dad means when he says I WILL MAKE YOU LOST???
[7:27] Agnia SMSTrekker: mawi is trying to keep his culture for ex.injera bread
[7:27] Agnia SMSTrekker: ruin his life
[7:27] Amsen SMSTrekker: wat do u think his dad means when he says I WILL MAKE YOU LOST???
[7:27] Jess SMSTrekker: he will get in trouble more in the US
[7:27] Agnia SMSTrekker: but mawi is changing his culture more and more to fit in and get the best education that he can get
[7:27] Agnia SMSTrekker: answering amesen ruin his life
[7:27] Jess SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:28] Chaser Brody: that is called assimilation – is it good ? or not?
[7:28] Jess SMSTrekker: he says that alot
[7:28] Agnia SMSTrekker: its good for his education but bad for keeping his culture
[7:28] Amsen SMSTrekker: yeah
[7:28] Agnia SMSTrekker: its a matter of perspective
[7:28] Jess SMSTrekker: yup
[7:28] Agnia SMSTrekker: its good in one way, but bad in another
[7:29] Amsen SMSTrekker: i think it gives mawi discipline
[7:29] Chaser Brody: so as a society – what can we do to make it easier to maintain ones heritage and still live the American Dream?
[7:29] Jess SMSTrekker: true b/c he wants to fit in, but shouldn’t forget his lifwe in sudan
[7:29] Agnia SMSTrekker: do what u can to get the best education and job, but at home follow ur culture
[7:29] Chaser Brody: Amsen – can you give an example of the discipline comment?
[7:30] Agnia SMSTrekker: amsen?
[7:30] Amsen SMSTrekker: i think that if it wasnt for his dads discipline he will think he can do watever he wants
[7:30] Chaser Brody: THank you for letting me be a part of your discussion. I will post this on the Ramapo Islands blog today! Very good thinking!
[7:31] Agnia SMSTrekker: okay i have to give the notecard so this is the end
[7:31] Agnia SMSTrekker: thanks
[7:31] Platform-One whispers: Platform-One now descending.
[7:32] Ballesty SMSTeacher: THANKS, THE KIDS ARE REALLY RESPONSIBLE I LOVE HOW QUIET AND THOUGHTFUL THEY ARE!
The meeting was last Friday- the answer was yes! Once again the vision of my Superintendent, Dr. Robert MacNaughton and and the prudent support of my mentor, James Yap paid off in another leap into 21st century learning for Ramapo Central Schools. We are now ready to open our islands to collaborative teamwork with other schools on the Teen Grid. This is huge!
As with all of our prior advancements, we will be taking “baby steps” and plan to begin with the concept of a “virtual draw bridge” that will open and close to other schools. Now comes the technical inquiry to determine the best method to pull this off. I will be contacting Linden and Skoolaborate for starters, Eloise Pasteur is always helpful for coming up with creative solutions!! Anyone with any suggestions or ideas as to the best method for this transformation please do advise!
