I'm happy to report that over a third of the team has decided to experiment with new genres: picture books and graphic stories. While I suspect that using the iPads is part of the appeal, I'm noticing a much more solid grasp of audience based on their chosen genre. On Friday, we had small group tutorials on how to use the iPads.
This week, students are continuing with their work plans, while adding to their repertoire of writing skills. Students are adding different types of endings (reflective, circular, or ambiguous); also, we're experimenting with different leads (starting in the middle, beginning at the end, character background leads, describing a scene to set the mood).
Several students are already at the point where they are able to create graphics for their picture books and graphic novels. We have some very talented artists in 8th grade this year!