Double Entry Journal #13

1. Give an example of a "community of practice" in which you are currently participating in.

An example of a community of practice that I participate in is Fairmont State Reads. In this after school community service practice I help students understand the importance of reading in a fun and engaging way. One week we read a story about community service and then created bird feeders out of recycled water bottles to hang up within the community.

2.Why is the term "community" better defined in relation to spaces rather than groups of people?

"Community" is better defined in relation to spaces rather than groups of people because people are unique and different from one another therefore they can not always be grouped; but a sense of community can be present among the people.

3. What is a "generator"? What is it's counterpart in school?

A "generator" is what the space is about and its counterpart in school is the content.

4. What is a "content organizer"? What is it's counterpart in school?

A "content organizer" is how things are designed and or organized.

5. What is a "portal"? What is it's counterpart in school?

A "portal" gives access to the content in the space. This may relate to textbooks, the Internet, or other resources.

6. What do people have an "affinity" for in an "affinity space"? How does this inform your understanding of good teaching?

People have an affinity for what they are interested in.This informs my understanding of good teaching because when teachers are able to relate content to students' interests they are able to grasp and understand the content to a fuller extent. Utilizing the interests will make the experience more desirable and engaging.

7. How do "affinity spaces" support inclusive classrooms? Choose two characteristics below to make connections between "affinity spaces" and inclusive classrooms.

Affinity spaces support inclusive classrooms because they do not go against the people that are in it; it is a positive environment. It also supports inclusive classrooms because the sense of community and sharing a common vision allows people to connect and work together.

8. How are traditional classrooms different from Affinity Spaces?

Traditional classrooms are different from affinity spaces because traditional classrooms separate the students by academic level while in affinity spaces a larger branch is present that allows students to learn in an "nontraditional way."