Spelling and Writing

I was unaware that there were so many stages of spelling. I obviously don't remember going through the first few stages because I was so young. I have had experience with children who are in the emergent stage. I think it is very interesting how a child can know exactly what they mean with a scribble and they go on and on "reading" it to you. The creativity they show is great and I think it is one of the reasons I love working with children so much.

I have always enjoyed writing. As a little girl, I used to try to write novels. I would get a few pages in and decide that it wasn't interesting enough. I kept a journal for a while. I got it as a present for Christmas when I was in fourth grade. I remember writing really short entries and just listing what I did during the day. Then my Dad told my sister and I that journals were for us to write down how we feel. I remember writing in my journal that day, I listed everything I did, and then at the bottom wrote "I felt happy today." haha! I eventually learned to put my feelings down in the journal and I liked having somewhere secret to share my stories.

My opinion toward writing has not changed much over the semester. As I said, I have always liked writing and thought it was important. I have learned that writing can provide an avenue for people who have no way to talk or otherwise express their feelings. Writing is a tool that everyone needs and will use through their entire life. It is one of the most important skills we learn.

I'll have to admit, I wasn't too excited about having a blog. However, it has been a lot easier and more enjoyable than I thought it was going to be. I like the idea of incorporating class material into my personal experiences because I think it will help me remember and grasp the concepts.

I am excited about the Published Book project we are completing. Like I said earlier, when I was younger I always wanted to write a novel. This will be a good opportunity for me to complete my dream. My story will be partly true and some fictional. I want to follow my journey through college and address my fear that I will not be a successful teacher. The story will end with my future. I will write about my journey into the teaching profession and all that comes with it. I think the book will be a great way for me to get out my feelings and fears about being a teacher.