Multi-Modal Literacies- Final Reflection

At the beginning of this course, I was not sure why I would be blogging on pop culture. Although, since I keep up, I did not have a problem with it! I later learned that everything multi-modal is text—books, movies, music, games, etc. I came to this realization through our Multi-Genre Autobiographies. That was one assignment that had several purposes. Since I am preparing to student teach in the fall, I am highly considering using this assignment. This project will allow me to get to know my students and what they like. I can also show them that they are all involved in literacy and literacy applies to their lives everyday.

I loved the activities that we did at the beginning of each class earlier in the semester. There were several others found in Dr. Kist’s book, also! I loved fun activities that get students moving, conversing and engaged in literacy. I was always scribbling the activities down as fast as I could so that I can use them when I teach! While “Pass the Pen” was hilariously fun, I loved the simulation game, the five clips with women, and the postcard pass the most. These activities, in my opinion, were a lot like critical literary analysis, especially the five clips of women. I would love to use that as a way to teach the “gender lens” of literary analysis. The Film Study Guide assignment did the same thing and is a great way to get students to think critically.

When Michelle Cahoon spoke to the class about Autism, I was thrilled to know that multi-modal literacy is a great strategy for students with Autism. After this class and Michelle’s talk, I feel like I am more equipped to teach students with disabilities.

The Wiki was one of the most meaningful assignments I have had at Kent State. I love that I looked for important qualities in the lessons that I want to teach and that everyone else did the same. It is also great that we can use them! I have already gone searching for some good ideas!

At the beginning of the semester, I was horribly afraid of student teaching. Yes, I am still nervous. But I have made tremendous strides in finding my beliefs and my teaching philosophies. I feel that with all of the materials that have been given to me and with my preparation, I am not only ready to take on student teaching in the fall, but I am ecstatic for my first day at Erwine Middle School!