Rules for Submitting Writing or Comments

1. Please, no last names, addresses, IM screen names etc.

2. When posting a weekly Speak Out Essay or reading reflection, carefully type and save your work in Word or some other program so as to edit it for spelling and grammar errors; simply copy and paste the final text in the comment field with a creative title.

3. If you want to write your opinion on a topic, make sure you’re not going to be offensive as you write it.

4. Always make sure you check over your post one final time for spelling errors, grammar errors, and your use of words.

5. Never disrespect someone else, whether it’s a person, an organization, or just a general idea. You don’t want someone making a stab at what you are passionate about; don’t do it to someone else.

6. Don’t write about other people without permission. if you can’t get their permission, use first names only. Never share someone else’s last name.

7. Watch your language! Our classroom web site is part of our school community. Language that is inappropriate in school is also inappropriate here.

8. Make sure things you write about are factual and well-supported. Keep yourself from posting about things that aren’t true. Link to your sources.

9. Keep it education-oriented. That means that you probably shouldn’t discuss your plans for the weekend, the last dance etc.

10. Respond honestly and thoughtfully. Feel free to respond to specific quotes from other students’ submissions.

Adapted from http://patterson.edublogs.org/all-about-blogs/