October 1, 2009

Teachers have a very heavy load of responsibility. As I was reading, I became overwhelmed by what I have decided and known I have to do. I am going to help children learn how to be fulfilled and productive members of society by providing, equipping, and guiding. I know that I can do this!
Chapter 5 outlined some great ways to be the teacher that teaches the students how to become. By using a focused curriculum as a guide to determine what is important, we help our students master and retain specific knowledge that is needed to progess not only in academics, but in all other aspects of adult life. Providing instruction that is engaging, demanding, and carefully scaffolded will help our students know that no matter who they are, they have a teacher that wants them to succeed and grow.
The strategies in chapter 6 helped my overwhelming feeling of responsibility ease a bit. I just wish I had a photographic memory so that I could remember them all right on the spot in a classroom. I love the idea of helping students understand why what we are learning is important in the real world. I always wondered that about math. I never minded math, but it sure wasn't my favorite subjet. I think knowing real-life applications would have aided my desire to come to like math. I also like the idea of looking for fresh ways to present and explore. I, have been in school for more years than I would like to count, grow tired of the same old lecture and homework styles of teaching. I understand what it is like to be a student and enjoy a change! Finally, I agree that sharing my experiences and using affective activities (we are learning about these in ESL) will help me grow closer to my students. When I can become s teacher that truly cares for the success of my students, the sense of overload will decrease. I will be able to do what I need to do naturally.