Web 2.0 and social networking tools have changed the landscape of writing. These tools enable students to write for an authentic audience and to receive feedback from a diverse array of readers. Because the number of websites, apps and tools that enable this kind of interactive writing are endless, it's important to keep your instructional goal in mind and then choose the technology from there (rather than vice versa).Some of my favorite tools to get students writing are:
Blogger: Hands down, blogging is my favorite writing platform because it is so versatile and can be tweaked in so many ways.
Google Docs/Drive: A great tool for collaborative writing that makes it easy to do peer review of writing.
Wallwisher/Padlet: For quick writes, this is as easy as it gets.
Wikis: Both Wikispaces or PBWorks enable you to create a wiki quickly and easily. Here are some examples: PES Staff Wiki, PES 5th Grade Wiki
TodaysMeet: For backchanneling in a classroom, this is a great tool for creating a script or summary of conversations. Try our Web Wednesday TodaysMeet!
Figment: Social networking and writing meet in this VERY COOL online community.
Fifteen Minutes of Fiction: Daily writing prompts and a supportive writing community.
One Word: Sixty seconds to respond to one word in writing - a surprisingly addictive and fun way to get the written word flowing.
Magnetic Poetry: There are lots of sites for creating poetry - I like this one because it's quick and easy.
Tell a Story in 5 Frames: Combining visual arts (photography) and writing, this is great for students who want to use both images and words.
Tagxedo and Wordle: These are word cloud generators, both of which are perfect for brainstorming and getting started with a writing project, or for editing a project that is already underway.
50+ Web 2.0 Ways to Tell a Story: Still looking for the perfect format? This wiki has tons of ideas and examples.
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