Baby Names Going Wild

So if you haven't already heard the news, baby Hashtag Jameson was born just a few days ago. This child's name has became one of the  trendiest baby name of all time.  What were the parents thinking? Have they not already ruined their child's life? This just proves that the 21th century is nuts about social media.

This is my question for you; do you think the name "Hashtag" is going to ruin the child's life? Is Hashtag a proper name for a human being? We all know social media has became a big part in our lives but do you think it is taking a toll on how we live our lives now? Hashtag; will the child spell its name "Hashtag" or # ?

A gigantic thank you to today's guest blogger Jasmine Womble

Gangnam Style

Are you  as surprised as I am by the popularity of the smash hit "Gangnam Style?"  Released in July by South Korean artist PSY, this techno dance hit has become the number two YouTube hit video, just behind Justin Beiber's hit "Baby."  With its catchy beat and funky dance moves, the video and song have been parodied by many including the Oregon Duck and midshipmen from the United States Naval Academy. 

PSY has performed his song on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Today Show and at various venues including Madison Square Garden.  I have noticed many of you listening to it during class. 

Tell us what you think of Gangnam Style.  Do you like it, or has it become annoying because it is played so much?  Would you want to listen to more music by PSY?  Would you recommend it to your friends?

Cyber Monday

Last Friday was dubbed Black Friday.  Some of you may have seen some of the disasters as shown on the video. 

Today has been dubbed Cyber Monday and we are encouraged to shop online.  The benefits to online shopping include avoiding disasters like  the video shows.  Also the ease of shopping from the privacy of your home is an added benefit.  Of course, there might be drawbacks.  You can not try on clothing or physically touch the package.  And you need a credit or debit card, which presents a problem to many teenagers.  However, many retailers will have online specials to get you to shop online.

Now we move on to today's assignment.  Would you rather shop online or in a store?  Which way is easier for you?  IS there an advantage to either method of shopping?  Finally, why do you think online or in store shopping is the better choice for you? 

Happy Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  The history of Thanksgiving goes back to the days of the Pilgrims, so in many ways it is truly an American holiday.  With a four day weekend coming up, I am sure that you will have many opportunities to do many of the things that make you happy, in addition to visiting friends, family and of course hopefully enjoying some good food. 

Now for your assignment, share with your classmates two items.  In your post, list some things that you are thankful for.  What plans do you have for Thanksgiving and the rest of the weekend?

Enjoy the video.  Finally, be safe and enjoy your time off.  See you on Monday.

Under, not Over

While I am not a big follower of the NBA, this video caught my attention and may bring a smile to your face.  The Chicago Bulls are suffering through a tough season with injuries and players performing below expectations.  However, Nate Robinson has been a sensation for them.  In this video what he does is not only awesome but quite smart.  Let your opponent jump over you.  Sound simple? 

Watch the video a couple of times to get a good idea of this move.  Think you might want to try it the next time you are playing hoops? 
Tell us what you think of this move and remember to give us a paragraph (3-5 sentences) and proofread it. 

The Mom Song

Have you heard "The Mom Song" by comedienne Anita Renfroe? This YouTube sensation has been seen many times, both on television and the Internet. Here is the premise: in just about three minutes she sings all the things a mom might say in a typical day. Very funny and also entertaining!

Of course, as with many discussions between parents and teens, there are probably going to be some discussion. Watch Ms. Renfore's version. And of course there is the teen's perspective. Is that a normal thing to follow the first video? Does Ms. Renfroe sound like your mom; or do you agree with the teenager?  After you have viewed the videos, post your comments (remember 3-5 sentences).

iPads

iPads are here.  By now, most, if not all of you should have your iPad. What do you think of them?  Are you excited to be getting one?  Have you been using it at home and in other classes?

 Here is your first iPad assignment.  Download two apps to use for this class.  The first is any dictionary app.  I like the Merriam Webster dictionary, and it is free.  You will also need to download a "This Day in History" app. 

In this class, when your iPad is not being used for class activities, you will need to have it out, not turned on and placed down on your desk.  Remember that IWCS expects you to have your iPad every day and to bring it school fully charged.      I imagine that over the next few months, you will have a lot of opportunities to use your iPad in school.  Take advantage of them.   

Now for your posting assignment.  What do you think of the iPads?  Will they benefit you in class?  Do you see any potential problems with using them?  Let us know your thoughts on them.  I expect everybody to post and that your post will be proofread.  Remember that participating in this blog is not optional. 

Veterans Day

Sunday November 11 is Veterans Day.  Do you know why there is a  Veterans Day?  This site will give you the history of this holiday.  Please keep in mind that Veterans Day is much more than a day off from school/work; but is a day to honor those who have served our great nation with their military service.

Watch the video, it is very interesting.  Check out the web site!   Now post your comments on Veterans Day.  Please share at least one fact that you know about Veterans Day or  you learned from the website.  Proofread your work, and give us at least three sentences. 

After our  discussion, it is time to begin blogging as a class.


Thank you for checking out this blog. This is intended to be a teaching tool for my classes. Just a few quick rules. First, be respectful, tolerant and positive in your comments. Remember that this is an open blog and anyone (including your classmates) can see what you write. Do a good job! Second: You must post to my blog to earn your full class participation grade for that day. We blog on many, but not all days. Thirdly, your comments must be grammatically correct and spelled properly. Fourth: have fun!


Tell us what you think of this. For this and all comments, remember to respond using a full paragraph (3-5 sentences).