Diane+V.

7/1/10 I enjoyed the discussions, but I am frustrated with using the wiki. I hope I feel more comfortable this afternoon as I explore this digital media. Laura, thanks for the extra help. I better understand how to design a Wiki. Love the prompts. I'll use them in my classroom in September. I love poems as prompts too. They generate discussion, help students identify literary devices, and provide models of good writing. I actually found this wiki, logged in and recorded my thoughts this evening. A major accomplishment from this afternoon. Perseverance pays off even though it also killed me! The most important thing I learned this week is to conference for one reason only. It makes the task more manageable and it teaches the child one valuable revision or editing skill at a time which he or she will hopefully incorporate into his or her writing in the next piece.

Where I'm From

I am from the city houses with tiny backyards Neighbors' voices drifting through my windows on warm summer days I'm from clothlines Glistening sheets sailing through cloudless skies snapping in the calm breeze

I'm from a large Italain family 26 cousins gathered around a picnic table Draped in a trellis of grapes I'm from Antoinette's spaghetti sauce, meatballs, and sauage I'm from Vincenzo's tomatoes fresh from the garden I'm from cristenings, communions, and multiple weddings.

I'm from fishing with Andrew at the Kensiko Dam in the early dawn No words between us forging a close bond I'm from Catholic school, siting in rows,writng in script I'm from walking to school Books wrapped with a thick elastic band

I'm from lightning bugs, summers in Cape Cod, swimming in public beaches, I'm from immigrants who were processed on Ellis Island Came here for a better life

I'm from grandparents, parents, husband and children I'm from fears, joys, hopes, and challenges I'm from all moments and memories I'm from this this short time on earth May I leave a positive legacy.