What are you learning this summer? One thing we all know is that we learn everyday, no matter what the circumstances. Summer offers students (and staff) the opportunity to learn with the freedom that only comes from this time of year. To keep up your academic progress over the summer, here are a few ideas you can implement to help your learning progress and come into next school year ahead of where you left in May!
- READ: This is the most important thing you can do to keep learning going. Pick up a book, magazine, or read online...it really doesn't matter the source--JUST READ (and try to read everyday)!
- Google Reader--ever heard of it? Check out this video on what Google Reader is (or any RSS Reader) and how you can set one up for yourself. It is a great way to filter the internet and create a personal learning environment for yourself.
- Set up a Skype or Google Video Chat and teach one of your friends or relatives (preferably someone outside of the Great Lakes Area) to do the same! It's a fun way to converse and you can learn a new technology at the same time. Not sure how, click on Skype or Google Video Chat above and watch the videos on the page.
- Get out and enjoy a little local Iowa History! When was the last time you went to the Abbie Gardner Cabin or the Maritime Museum. They offer some phenomenal local history which you can learn about for free, and they are within minutes of each other in Arnold's Park.
- Find someone to mentor! All of you have someone you know who looks up to you and would love to have a bit of your undivided attention this summer. Think of someone you could mentor and devote a little time with them this summer. You don't have to do anything profound, just give them a bit of your time and let him or her know that you care about them. For some of you, a little brother or sister may be the ticket (even if you can't stand them:). Mentoring is a great way to serve and really make a difference in another person's life.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the learning opportunities you will have this summer, but I hope it sparks a few ideas in your mind and keeps your summer learning on the right track. I hope all of you had a safe and fun-filled 4th of July. Take care and keep learning!
