Blog #3

Betty Ray's Design - Thinking Piece
Before I read this article, I never really thought about the thinking process.  I didn't realize that there was a thinking process.  When I first started reading this article, I asked myself, "What exactly is included in the thinking process and who would ever think of this?"  I stopped reading and my mind was pondering with many thoughts as I tried tot hunk of the thinking process.  I decided to continue reading and just analyse is each step.  The first step, identify the opportunity, made me realize that before we began thinking we have to think about "what exactly are thinking about".  I know that really sounds weird but that is what came to mind.  Step 2, which is the design process, makes me think of analyzing a situation that you were previously involved with.  Sometimes in order to make the right decision, you must consider all the options and consequences.  In step 3,  you must weigh one of options and decide what could possibly be the solution.  Step 4, is the step that we all as individuals should receive which is feedback.  Advice and feedback is always good whether its positive or negative. Once you have received feedback, move to step 5 and analyse it to improve your decision.  Step 6, is the final step and if you have processed each step correctly, then you will be able to present with no problem.  As I read this article, I tried to place myself in the author's shoes and decide how would I would i teach the thinking process.  My overall question is not just how would I teach the process but how will I teach young students how to think.

Content Area Literacy in the Elementary Grades
Literacy is very important among students in elementary.  While students are in elementary, they should learn and know a lot about literacy.  Literacy is a subject that students will need throughout life.  The world is changing so and students must be literate enough to handle all situations.  How do you expect a student to apply for a job one day when he/she is illiterate.  Students should not only be able to read short stories but also be able to read informational text to help them think critically.  The article stated that if students are taught literacy then they should be able to "read the world".  Literacy is very critical because the world is constantly changing.