Teens and Social Media

     There are a large number of teens writing content online.  Sixty-four percent of the teenagers are MOTIVATED to write either on blogs, emails, ims, text messages, etc.  As educators, we are constantly looking for ways to motivate students.  In this case, the motivation is already here! Using the new technology to teach writing skills is another tool teachers can and should use.  

     There are statistical differences between boys and girls about the type and amount of content being posted, so we still need to be aware of individual differences.  Even though these differences exist, online communication gives all teenagers an active audience.  Teenagers would be highly motivated to write to this active audience and would receive immediate feedback on the content of their post.   An online assignment for teenagers would have face validity and it's just plain fun!