Thursday, January 27, 2011

Quick Tips for Netiquette

  • Think before you write! Ask yourself: "Would I say that to their face?" or "Would I say that in front of my mother?"
  • If something upsets you, wait at least 24 hours before responding.
  • Use of emoticons to show expressions, but don't get too carried away. They will help others interpret your meaning.
  • Take the time to proofread, spell check, and send the right impression of yourself.

Netiquette for Teens

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Cyberbullying

What is Cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is exactly what it sounds like. Cyberbullying occurs when a student(s) torment, threaten, harass, humiliate, embarrass, or target another student on the Internet, through interactive and digital technology, or through the use of cell phones. It can be directly through words/ messages on social networking sites like Facebook, it can be done through pictures, blogs, online interactive games, etc. Cyberbullying can also be done by using others to bully without the accomplice's knowledge. For example, a bully can send a message to someone impersonating a friend or an authoritative figure. It is extremely important to help stop cyberbullying if it is occurring. At the top of this blog, I have posted links on cyberbullying. Please take a couple of minutes to look at the resources. If you have any questions, make sure you stop by the library to see me.

Netiquette for Teens

Netiquette for Teens

What is Netiquette? Netiquette is a term to describe proper etiquette on the Internet. Etiquette is a system of rules and conventions for social and professional behavior. When you look at a system of rules for appropriate behavior on the Inter"net", you have Netiquette. These rules are basically the do's and don't's of online communication.

Why is Netiquette Important? It's necessary to understand the differences between online and face-to-face communication in order to fully appreciate the importance of Netiquette. When sending someone a message online, it's easy to forget that the words you are seeing actually come from a person like you and me. It's easy to misinterpret what is said because you don't hear the other person speaking the words. It's easy to lash out and say the first thing that comes to mind since you are looking at a computer screen and not the person. The problem with all of this is that you are judged by your words. Once you post your words, they are out there in cyberspace for the world to see. Sure you can try to edit the post, but the words are there and they can come back to haunt you. It's important for you to understand Netiquette so you do not fall victim to these mistakes.

Netiquette for Teens

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Google eBooks

Google eBooks allows you to download books on just about any device to read any book, anywhere. Google eBooks is compatible with many webbrowsers, eReaders, iPod Touch, iPad, iPhone, and Android phones.

Click here to learn more about the Digital Cloud

One of the greatest features of Google eBooks is that it provides a plethora of free books including many classics! Another great feature is Google eBooks provides many comprehensive lists such as the New Arrivals list, a Top Rated list, New York Times Best Sellers list and a Best of the Free list.

Click here to browse the Google eBooksstore collection

I received a Nook Color for Christmas and I had been looking online for eBooks to download when I came across Google eBooks. The OCPL and NYPL are other resources that provide eBooks. I have been very happy with my NYPL card and I highly recommend applying for the NYPL card if you haven't already done so. Again, our district offers eBooks off of the Library Links page. If you need help locating any of these resources, it will be my pleasure to assist you.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

I just finished reading Mockingjay, the third book in the Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins, and I absolutely loved it. I was on the edge of my seat to find out what happened next until the last page. The theme is poignant and I really loved the ending. I had a lot of questions but, I was very satisfied. The characters- Katniss, Peeta, and Gale- were all very likable. Katniss had some really tough choices to make; especially when she wanted to believe in something only to be disenchanted. Peeta reminded me of someone I went to grade school with at IC. Gale was stood up against time.

I loved the symbol of the dandelion and how the author used it full circle in the beginning of the series and again at the end. The dandelion reference made me think of my Great Grandmother's diaries that she wrote when she was 14 years old while living out west. My Great Grandmother used to eat dandelion soup with dinner. (Who knew they used to eat that back in the day)? I bet you didn't know how healthy dandelions are for you and how many vitamins they pack. Katniss's mom would have included dandelions in her book of remedies as dandelions have many medicinal qualities. The irony is that many people today do not care for dandelions. For one, they reproduce like mad. Dandelions grow faster than the grass in most lawns. People spend a lot of money adding chemicals to their lawns to prevent them from growing. In this trilogy, the dandelion was a symbol of hope after all the destruction due to war and natural causes. So, if you want to see a dandelion, I will probably have a couple in my lawn this spring I can bring in for you. Just ask.

Click here for more information on dandelions

Suzanne Collins

Discussion guide for all three books in The Hunger Games Trilogy

Friday, January 7, 2011


Come join our Library Book Club! We meet after school on Monday's until 4:15 and during lunch! We have created a Book Club Facebook page to share your thoughts. In addition, students have created Shelfari accounts to share their personal book reviews on books that they have read independently. We can give you 13 Reasons Why to join us. All are welcome! Mrs. Page
Can you read this code? People in the book club can!!!!! You need to join us!!!! We have all the resources you need!!!