The Silver Lining in MySpace?

Has cryptic online 'computer speak' caused kids to forget how to write?

Joe Bellacero explains why he thinks popular social networks might just be a boon for students -- and how teachers can tap their hidden value.

A veteran New York City English teacher, Joe is now the associate director of The New York City Writing Project, a professional development organization that stresses teachers teaching teachers. As you can imagine, he knows a thing or two about the language arts.

Well, you could take that view. On the other hand, they are writing. And they're reinventing writing. If you take a broad view, it's similar to when English was coming into existence back in the days when German and French were being amalgamated, and people were unselfconsciously creating a language. I don't look at what's happening on the Internet with language as if kids are losing something. I think they're developing something. They're developing something new -- and don't forget, they'll be taking over after you and me.

Read Joe's thoughts and suggestions about to use My Space productively:
The Silver Lining in MySpace? - Visual Thesaurus Online Edition: