The Weekend...She Is Here (Finally!)

Stemming from our text messaging readings, discussions and activities I guided the classes through a study of--what I consider to be--the very first examples of text messaging in the history of modern society: vanity license plates.

We first defined what it means to "text" someone and then determined the basic elements of this form of communication, which are:

1. The use of text (letters, numbers)

2. The need for it to be short (abbreviated)

3. A quick method to send/receive information

4. Ability to communicate over some distance.

Do vanity plates do this? They sure do!!

Through the dozens (and dozens and even more dozens!) of examples of vanity plates that I "gathered" over the last several months during my daily commute (with a few side trips to parking lots at malls and work complexes), the students had a great time guessing the messages from my presentation (made using Keynote). Once I figure out how to add it to this blog, I will post the piece.

This week coming up, we'll continue our exploration of ancient media--more on text, a new topic on writing implements and our workshops this week will focus on drawing and collage creation.

There ya go! Have a great weekend!!

--Mr. Hoban