Currently, three of my classes are finishing up a short unit on persuasive writing. We looked at various types of arguments (argument from authority, reason, emotion, etc.) and, after practicing with a fairly harmless topic (our school’s dress code — everyone, not surprisingly, wrote that the dress code should be abolished), we’re working on something weightier: capital punishment. It’s a cross-curricular assignment: it will also count as a social studies grade.

But the nagging problem with school writing is audience. “Who am I doing this for?” some kids ask, and “Your teacher and yourself,” while a true answer, is not a satisfying one.

How about, “For the world”?

I’ve tried several times to get class-related blogs started. I haven’t always been successful. I’m trying again, though: students.ourenglishclass.net.

The aims are simple:

1. provide students with a medium to publish their writing; and
2. teach students how to use use basic content management software.

So if you don’t mind, take a look, give it a mention if you have a blog, visit often, and leave a comment or two.