Tuesday's Class Discussion

Well, what an interesting day! ! I actually feel like I learned quite a bit today. I really enjoyed the article I was assigned to read (Helping Young Students). Much better than yesterday's (Redefining Literacy)!! I would love to be able to have a classroom in which the students had more freedom/choice in their learning, but I don't feel comfortable or really know how to go about setting that up to work successfully.

I still have issues with trying to fit in all that we are required to teach according to the state standards. Also, since we are required to teach grammar and spelling and it goes along with writing, when and how is the best way to do this without really doing it in isolation since the students don't retain it like they would when used in context? I have students who learn math facts in isolation and seem to know all of them, but when we start 2 digit multiplication and such, all of the sudden, they don't seem to know them anymore. I know they didn't lose that knowledge. The same goes for spelling words and parts of speech. What would be a good way to get in what we are required to teach, still be able to take grades on, and still have time to let the students write and get in all the other stuff that goes along with writing?

I did enjoy the revision activity we did early this morning. I feel that would be a good way to learn a little more about our students also by what they put in when they are to add things. I think that activity could tell us more about their personalities and interests.

I am feeling a little more comfortable about the paper we need to write. I have a few ideas floating around in my head and just need to pinpoint which one I can get the most out of. I have found a few good articles to consider, just need to choose which ones will work better.