Reflective Blogs in Algebra

I gave my students their first writing/blogging assignment in Algebra last week, here was the prompt (scroll down a bit):

Looking back at your first week plus in Algebra (and, for some of you, your first week plus at AHS), how are you feeling? What's going well or you're excited about? What's challenging or are you concerned about?

Then I want you to set three goals for yourself for this semester. One goal specifically related to Algebra, one goal related to AHS in general (can be related to classwork, sports, activities, or something else at AHS), and one goal outside of AHS. Make these goals fairly specific, not just "I want to get a good grade." I'll be asking you to revisit these goals toward the end of the semester and evaluate how well you're doing on them, so make them be worthwhile and achievable.

While not all of them have completed their post yet, it would be great if some of you could take a look and perhaps leave an encouraging comment or question for them.

Iowa, Did You Know?

Scott McLeod and XPLANE just released an Iowa-specific version of Did You Know?, premiering at the School Administrators of Iowa Conference yesterday. Even though it's somewhat Iowa-centric, I still think it is very useful as a conversation starter in your district, wherever that might be.

Nice job Scott, XPLANE and Iowa. Join the conversation at iowafuture.org (and, of course, at the Shift Happens wiki).