class on 11/17

I like using fables/tall tales in my teaching. I have had students of all ages (3rd grade-high school) rewrite those types of stories to express point-of-view. I have also had students analyze these types stories from different cultures to express different/similar values. I believe it was the story of Cinderella that variations from several cultures exist. I've never had students analyze the story structure and rewrite their own, but I think that is a good idea--fictionalizing their own personal (life) story, and maybe exagerating some of the details.

Although we got a little carried away when brainstorming ideas for what to do with the short story Dr. Smidt had us read, I think the point was made that there can be an almost endless list of activities to do with a short story. I did want to add that teachers really need to be aware of what students say in their writing. During my student teaching I had a student write about a "friend" she met online who comes over to her house when her parents are gone. She wasn't the brightest bulb on the tree, and when I mentioned it to the school counselor (about the friend not the bulb) the counselor said that piece of writing I showed her tied some loose strings together about other issues the girl had. Not good.

Can I say "aaaargh" right now about our portfolio. I think I may have to create some material specifically to meet the criteria. Maybe I'm just not thinking outside the box enough. I also think some questions to guide our reflections may be helpful. I think I will have a hard time coming up with a full page for all six pieces.