Using Edmodo

One of the larger concepts we've been discussing this year is informal versus formal voice in writing or speaking. Informal voice sounds more relaxed, conversational, and even friendly. Formal is more professional sounding, using standard English grammar, and sounding more objective and logical, than biased and emotional. Check out the blog post below. Do I, the author, have an informal voice or a formal voice throughout?

Hello students! I'm excited to announce that we will be using Edmodo, an interactive, social-media like website that will allow us to take our discussions BEYOND the classroom.

Okay, okay. I know what you're thinking: "Great. More homework."  or "Awesome. Just another way school can take time away from activities we actually enjoy doing." But hear me out!

First, don't think of this as more work. Instead, think of this as the same amount work, but done differently or, actually, shared differently. I often resent the fact that I can't hear all of your ideas from HW journal entries. It's just not practical in a 40 minute class period to hear what EVERYBODY has to say. 

Secondly, being conversational and even playful in your writing goes a LONG way in becoming a stronger communicator (and therefore thinker, listener, reader, speaker, and of course, WRITER). Being conversational, however, implies an audience. Private journal entries kind of take away the element of audience, at least temporarily (think about it: journal entries are awesome for developing ideas and thoughts without fear of judgment, and by polishing some of the rough edges in your thinking, it becomes easier for you to share your thoughts with others). So, obviously, we'll still journal in class, but why do more of the same at home?! Publicly posting your ideas and interpretations in a light, conversational way, will help you see the positive implications that informal writing has for communication, the basis of any ELA class.

Lastly, I cannot promise that you'll love Edmodo or even come to realize its benefits. And I’m okay with that. I’ve come to terms with the notion that not all forms of expression are loved or even appreciated by students.  But I do hope, like any work you do, you put a full, earnest effort into your posts on Edmodo. If you do, I can promise that I will be able to recognize and value your ideas in a way that was not previously possible.

The main thing I want you to come away with is that using this technology is not just a classroom gimmick or a way for me to appear connected or in touch with the young crowd. When it’s all said and done, this is about you. This is about helping you form a relationship to thinking creatively, critically, seriously, and even humorously. Most importantly, I want you to form this relationship to your mind in a way that is on your own terms. I feel like a public forum that is designed especially for your thoughts and opinions is a big step in that direction.