Well, I'm really enjoying Making the Journey, but chapter four left me a bit disheartened. Throughout the chapter, I'm thinking, "Why can't she tell us stories with happier endings?" These students with which she's been 'successful' are still barely passing or even going to jail. Where's the breakthrough successes, the Hollywood moments where one amazing teacher turns a student's whole life around?
And then I realize...right. That's the point - these are the most challenging students, and this isn't a movie. As a teacher, you're going to fail, and you're going to have to rejoice over even the smallest victories - and sometimes a D is a victory. I like to think I can inspire everyone, but I know it isn't true. Still, I wouldn't want to be a teacher if I wasn't an optimist.
As for Deeper Reading, well, I suppose I'll have to get further along before I make any judgments. I did love Ned Guymon's "Conversation Piece" though - I'm definitely using that in my class!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
I second that!
She did have the "breakthrough success" of the African-American girl who went on to become a doctor. For a student who is on the verge to become a doctor is a pretty big accomplishment in my book. Even with my great GPA, I do not have the determination (or stomach) to endure the trials of medical school. I'm still thinking if I have what it takes to get my Master's!
I agree with you Katie, that using Guymon's "Converstation Piece", would be a great addition to a classroom. I plan on using it as well.
Get down w/ your bad self!
Post a Comment