In today's class we basically just revised our papers and helped other students try to get a good idea what to talk about in our papers. There were no readings for this week, and we didn't get to headlines but I think that by letting our peers help revise, we each got a better idea of what to discuss.
This semester has been great. I learned many important issues and strategies to run my future classroom. My experience in Newark was great and I consider myself lucky to have had the oppurtunity to spend briefly 30 hours in a new, high tech elementary school.
This school has changed some of my ideas about becoming a teacher. I was so set on teaching high school but elementary school [the higher grades] seems like it would be a good idea as well.
The host teacher I worked with gave me a lot of great ideas and advice for my future and I really enjoyed working with her and her students. I really felt at home when I was in Newark. It is a wonderful experience to start your initial field work with someone who is very knowlegable, caring, and dedicated to his or her career.
This class inspired me to want to still apply to the Teacher Educaiton program, and I look forward to keeping up the good work during the initiation process.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Monday, December 3, 2007
December already!
Wow, it is unbelievable how fast this semester passed by! Before we know it, we will be in front of classrooms lecturing and being TEACHERS! It is simply amazing how this course helped me establish that I DEFINITELY want to be a teacher. I had doubts but, I think I am pretty sure on my choice.
As for today's class, once again, there were three great headlines. First, No Child Left Behind.. an important issue that gets teachers and parents are both upset about, but is it good or bad? The ranking process of standardized testing can brutally damage a school's image. What is important.. Math? English? Should this test be taken in English?
The second article includes a VERY controversial issue on Japan's new idea of taking a college course via cell phone. In my opinion, this is a joke because there is no interaction nor learning process that is going on when taking a course over the phone or even the Internet.. in this case. I think that the whole purpose of higher education is to interact with the teacher and get a good learning experience - not to teach yourself via cell phone.
The last article deals with a major issue that I am probably going to encounter a few times within my career. Since I want to become an English teacher - especially for high school, the "Frightening Fiction," article really hit home for me. It is a scary thought to have to double check each individual student's work for emotional content as well. How do you know what is not acceptable for school or what is simply a fictional story?
As for the readings - I was especially interested in the steps to be a teacher. I think as far as we go, for now, we need to focus on the preparation and the sequence stages in school. It is important to know that this is what we really want to do with the rest of our lives. It is also important to take care of the first few years of teaching [by being totally focused, organized, and interested in the content]. Once tenured, the interest factor will probably not be an issue but there will be days we will want to quit. The frustrations and negativity of teaching shouldn’t stick with us as a problem. I think that before we are preparing to retired, we should all tell everyone that we truly LOVE teaching.
As for today's class, once again, there were three great headlines. First, No Child Left Behind.. an important issue that gets teachers and parents are both upset about, but is it good or bad? The ranking process of standardized testing can brutally damage a school's image. What is important.. Math? English? Should this test be taken in English?
The second article includes a VERY controversial issue on Japan's new idea of taking a college course via cell phone. In my opinion, this is a joke because there is no interaction nor learning process that is going on when taking a course over the phone or even the Internet.. in this case. I think that the whole purpose of higher education is to interact with the teacher and get a good learning experience - not to teach yourself via cell phone.
The last article deals with a major issue that I am probably going to encounter a few times within my career. Since I want to become an English teacher - especially for high school, the "Frightening Fiction," article really hit home for me. It is a scary thought to have to double check each individual student's work for emotional content as well. How do you know what is not acceptable for school or what is simply a fictional story?
As for the readings - I was especially interested in the steps to be a teacher. I think as far as we go, for now, we need to focus on the preparation and the sequence stages in school. It is important to know that this is what we really want to do with the rest of our lives. It is also important to take care of the first few years of teaching [by being totally focused, organized, and interested in the content]. Once tenured, the interest factor will probably not be an issue but there will be days we will want to quit. The frustrations and negativity of teaching shouldn’t stick with us as a problem. I think that before we are preparing to retired, we should all tell everyone that we truly LOVE teaching.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
My Last Day of Community Service
After going to the school to help out three other times, I was a bit sad when I went my last time, Friday. It was a very busy day in class because the 5th grade, along with the the other grades as well because there was a Hispanic assembly celebrating important Hispanic people in the U.S.
I got to the classroom around 12:30 p.m., and was greeted by the host teacher. She asked me if I can do her a great favor and organize VERY LARGE piles of tests and papers for her. She was absent a few days last week, so EVERYTHING was out of order and she needed a hand getting organized again. She had me organize each paper into which assignment it was, the class, and the student's number. [Every student from each section had a number that coinsides with their name alphabetically to help make recording grades easier.]
It took me about an hour just to organize each paper from worksheets, homework, and test packets. Then, after I was finished organizing, I had to put everything in order by class. I didn't complete what she had for me because the time simply flew away! I finished three homework assignments, two stacks of tests, and one stack of worksheets that was done in class.
It was sad when I had to leave around 3:00, but the teacher wants to keep in contact and I would love helping her out whenever I can.
I got to the classroom around 12:30 p.m., and was greeted by the host teacher. She asked me if I can do her a great favor and organize VERY LARGE piles of tests and papers for her. She was absent a few days last week, so EVERYTHING was out of order and she needed a hand getting organized again. She had me organize each paper into which assignment it was, the class, and the student's number. [Every student from each section had a number that coinsides with their name alphabetically to help make recording grades easier.]
It took me about an hour just to organize each paper from worksheets, homework, and test packets. Then, after I was finished organizing, I had to put everything in order by class. I didn't complete what she had for me because the time simply flew away! I finished three homework assignments, two stacks of tests, and one stack of worksheets that was done in class.
It was sad when I had to leave around 3:00, but the teacher wants to keep in contact and I would love helping her out whenever I can.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Issues from 11/26's Class
Today's class was filled with very interesting information. First and foremost, I want to touch on the headlines that were presented. The first headline that Kenny presented, regarding the reading comprehension exam that was thrown away carries along with it, many controversies. Was it the US's specific scores that didn't want to be publicized? Or.. was there really a "problem" in the exam. Like mentioned in class, Kenny tried to find the problem in the text and didn't even notice it. I think that this exam was somewhat corrupt because I think the US doesn't want to "look" bad, and by using this exam... they could easily get away with it.
As for the Myspace/Facebook issues, I could write a book on my opinions. It is almost sick how people can use these social websites to ruin other people's lives. I have both a Myspace and a Facebook and I will definitely delete them before applying for jobs, but it is a scary thing to think someone can "Google" your name and find BAD pictures of you. Having these social websites aren't as bad as they are made out to be but still shouldn't be trusted!
Lastly, the issue of "losing love" for reading. I think that parents should play an active role in their child's reading activity level. My parents read to me and I loved to read when I was younger. When I got to high school, my love for reading grew and I one day want to teach reading comprehension. It is a great thing to have when you have the love for reading.
As for the rest of the class, I was interested in the amount of technology that is needed to be known to be a teacher nowadays. Even if you are going to teach Pre-K, I think that it is important to be Internet-savvy and help children understand the importance of technology. The younger children learn how to use a computer, the more they will know for their futures. The Internet is there for us, we should take advantage of it!
As for the Myspace/Facebook issues, I could write a book on my opinions. It is almost sick how people can use these social websites to ruin other people's lives. I have both a Myspace and a Facebook and I will definitely delete them before applying for jobs, but it is a scary thing to think someone can "Google" your name and find BAD pictures of you. Having these social websites aren't as bad as they are made out to be but still shouldn't be trusted!
Lastly, the issue of "losing love" for reading. I think that parents should play an active role in their child's reading activity level. My parents read to me and I loved to read when I was younger. When I got to high school, my love for reading grew and I one day want to teach reading comprehension. It is a great thing to have when you have the love for reading.
As for the rest of the class, I was interested in the amount of technology that is needed to be known to be a teacher nowadays. Even if you are going to teach Pre-K, I think that it is important to be Internet-savvy and help children understand the importance of technology. The younger children learn how to use a computer, the more they will know for their futures. The Internet is there for us, we should take advantage of it!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The Jane Vincent Case Study [Reading for 11/26]
I enjoyed reading this Case Study. This was a pretty realistic issue that many of us will most likely have to face over the course of our careers.
I think that Jane should just stick to the strict guidelines [which were designed to better challenge "gifted" students] and keep the grade an 89.3. If the student achieved an 89.3, regardless of his or her own personality or learning ability, the grade should stick to an 89. If it was 89.5, it would be more "fair" to round the grade up.
In reality, Jane is only following what she is told to do, even if the principal in other words tells her to "cut the kid a break." What is fair is fair, and I think Jane should keep the grade an 89. If I were in her shoes, I would because I know in my heart that the student achieved this. To better challenge the students, this grading system was established, and Jane was told to follow these rules.
I don't believe that by giving Willie an 89, this will kill his motivation. I actually think that it will better prepare him for college, the real world, and to be challenged even further.
I think that Jane should just stick to the strict guidelines [which were designed to better challenge "gifted" students] and keep the grade an 89.3. If the student achieved an 89.3, regardless of his or her own personality or learning ability, the grade should stick to an 89. If it was 89.5, it would be more "fair" to round the grade up.
In reality, Jane is only following what she is told to do, even if the principal in other words tells her to "cut the kid a break." What is fair is fair, and I think Jane should keep the grade an 89. If I were in her shoes, I would because I know in my heart that the student achieved this. To better challenge the students, this grading system was established, and Jane was told to follow these rules.
I don't believe that by giving Willie an 89, this will kill his motivation. I actually think that it will better prepare him for college, the real world, and to be challenged even further.
Second Meeting Attended
On Tuesday, November 20th, I attended my second meeting [in my hometown] - a Board of Education meeting. I found it very interesting, reguardless how many people were saying how "boring" these types of meetings are. It is more interesting when the teachers are teachers who I have had in the past, rahter than pure strangers who I am not too interested in in the first place.
To start off the blog, I just want to say that in my town, there is a new school that was built and opened in April of 2007. Last year, the superintendent retired and as of right now, [until April 1, 2008] there is an interim superintendent. One of the main points of this Board of Ed meeting was the election of the new superintendent. The principal of the school was nominated as Superintendent/Principal until the end of the school year when the town elects a new principal.
Of all the members of the Board, one person did not agree with the election of the new superintendent. I found it a bit humiliating on his behalf to sit there and ridicule the future superintendent right in front of his face.
Other points of the meeting was exterior construction of the school. There was an argument about the sidewalks, and how there are problems with them. One member of the board didn't want to pay the company $2,000 for their work; but only pay for supplies when the other board memeber said it is NOT the company's fault.
Many numbers were thrown around. Specifically about a park/playground that still needs to be built for the students and for little repairs. The board members left the room for an "executive meeting" for about 25 minutes and that puzzled me a little bit. What is the purpose of holding a meeting if they were going to leave the audience? Towards the end of the meeting, the members left again for another "executive meeting." I was happy that at the end of the meeting, everyone congratulated the new superintendent and I know him as well.
*****I was scheduled to go back to Newark on Wednesday, but my host teacher was not there. More posted on my last 2 1/2 hours will be on Friday, November 30th.
To start off the blog, I just want to say that in my town, there is a new school that was built and opened in April of 2007. Last year, the superintendent retired and as of right now, [until April 1, 2008] there is an interim superintendent. One of the main points of this Board of Ed meeting was the election of the new superintendent. The principal of the school was nominated as Superintendent/Principal until the end of the school year when the town elects a new principal.
Of all the members of the Board, one person did not agree with the election of the new superintendent. I found it a bit humiliating on his behalf to sit there and ridicule the future superintendent right in front of his face.
Other points of the meeting was exterior construction of the school. There was an argument about the sidewalks, and how there are problems with them. One member of the board didn't want to pay the company $2,000 for their work; but only pay for supplies when the other board memeber said it is NOT the company's fault.
Many numbers were thrown around. Specifically about a park/playground that still needs to be built for the students and for little repairs. The board members left the room for an "executive meeting" for about 25 minutes and that puzzled me a little bit. What is the purpose of holding a meeting if they were going to leave the audience? Towards the end of the meeting, the members left again for another "executive meeting." I was happy that at the end of the meeting, everyone congratulated the new superintendent and I know him as well.
*****I was scheduled to go back to Newark on Wednesday, but my host teacher was not there. More posted on my last 2 1/2 hours will be on Friday, November 30th.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Monday's Class Discussion and Issues
Many interesting headlines were brought up in class again. The issue of whether or not cursive handwriting is "lost" in a sense throughout public school systems is an interesting issue. I think that cursive should definitely be taught, but on the other hand, should be optional whether or not a student is comfortable using it. Standardized testing, computers, etc., take away what writing was originally "all about."
As for the second headline, many people are frightened by it. The thought of school shootings and whether or not a teacher should be armed in the classroom is a scary thought. When I was growing up, we never had to discuss these topics. It is a shame how public schools' safety issues has changed.
Lastly, another Art issue. I cannot comment as much as I wish I could on the Art controversy because I was one of the students who always felt that Art was the class that we got a "break" in. Coloring, painting, drawing, and "having fun," is what my friends and I always thought Art class was all about. For Art majors out there, it is important to have a heart for the subject. You need to love what you do, and that is ALL that really matters.
Today's discussion about issues in schools, especially the Newark Public Schools caught my attention. Getting back to the meeting that I atteneded last week, the "Highly Qualified" status is important for the schools. It makes not only the schools look better but also can provide more funding for it as well. I think that tenured, seasoned teachers are at a disadvantage by having to pay for the PRAXIS, but in the end, it is beneficial.
As for the topic of Social Studies in Newark, this seemed important as well. I think that Social Studies is in a way, "cut off" from the rest of the day. It is not fair to teach these students about important, social and current events taking place in the world today in a total of 15 minutes. No one is paying attention, no one is lsitening, and everyone wants to leave. It is a shame! Something has to be done about this!
As for the second headline, many people are frightened by it. The thought of school shootings and whether or not a teacher should be armed in the classroom is a scary thought. When I was growing up, we never had to discuss these topics. It is a shame how public schools' safety issues has changed.
Lastly, another Art issue. I cannot comment as much as I wish I could on the Art controversy because I was one of the students who always felt that Art was the class that we got a "break" in. Coloring, painting, drawing, and "having fun," is what my friends and I always thought Art class was all about. For Art majors out there, it is important to have a heart for the subject. You need to love what you do, and that is ALL that really matters.
Today's discussion about issues in schools, especially the Newark Public Schools caught my attention. Getting back to the meeting that I atteneded last week, the "Highly Qualified" status is important for the schools. It makes not only the schools look better but also can provide more funding for it as well. I think that tenured, seasoned teachers are at a disadvantage by having to pay for the PRAXIS, but in the end, it is beneficial.
As for the topic of Social Studies in Newark, this seemed important as well. I think that Social Studies is in a way, "cut off" from the rest of the day. It is not fair to teach these students about important, social and current events taking place in the world today in a total of 15 minutes. No one is paying attention, no one is lsitening, and everyone wants to leave. It is a shame! Something has to be done about this!
Third Day of Community Service - 2 1/2 Hours
Sorry I didn't post earlier... I had no internet connection all weekend!
On Friday, I went to the school for my third day of community service... Now I have a total of 7 1/2 hours completed. It started off a little hectic, afterall it was Friday. The teacher gave me a stack of Social Studies workbooks that needed to be graded. Each student was assigned three pages of Social Studies workbook pages because their previous test grades were not too great. It was crazy the range of students who did excellent, who did poorly, or who didn't even bother to do it at all!
After going through the workbooks and recording all the grades, I had to grade another Social Studies test the students had previously. Once again, grades varied. As I was doing the grading, students were doing a picture prompt activity, preparing for the NJ ASK tests. Before I knew it, I had already been in the classroom an hour.
The teacher had me help with the spelling test. She gave the word, I repeated it for those who did not catch it or who weren't paying attention. During the test, there was a lot going on. Teachers were walking in and out of the room and the host teacher I was working with was trying to get her computer to work to add the grades. It was pure choas. Another teacher asked to have more copies of the Language Arts test that was supposed to be given next week. Printers didn't work and copy machines were jammed and of course, we were short the Language Arts tests. I had to count two large piles of tests and help organize them.
The last task for me to complete for the day. I had to take down the old "star papers" off of the bulletin boards and replace them with the student's more recent papers. This exercise showed me and the teacher who did and who did not hand in work. Those of the students who did not hand in the paper, obviously had no paper hanging up next to their picture on the bulletin board.
Before we knew it, it was 2:50 and I was watching the students at their lockers while the teacher finished up the Social Studies lesson. By 2:55 everyone was dismissed and looked forward to their weekend.
This Wednesday will complete my approximate 10 hours of community service. I'll be back later on this week to fill everyone in on my final experience. Tonight, I plan to attend a Board of Educaiton meeting in my town as well. Further posts are expected.
On Friday, I went to the school for my third day of community service... Now I have a total of 7 1/2 hours completed. It started off a little hectic, afterall it was Friday. The teacher gave me a stack of Social Studies workbooks that needed to be graded. Each student was assigned three pages of Social Studies workbook pages because their previous test grades were not too great. It was crazy the range of students who did excellent, who did poorly, or who didn't even bother to do it at all!
After going through the workbooks and recording all the grades, I had to grade another Social Studies test the students had previously. Once again, grades varied. As I was doing the grading, students were doing a picture prompt activity, preparing for the NJ ASK tests. Before I knew it, I had already been in the classroom an hour.
The teacher had me help with the spelling test. She gave the word, I repeated it for those who did not catch it or who weren't paying attention. During the test, there was a lot going on. Teachers were walking in and out of the room and the host teacher I was working with was trying to get her computer to work to add the grades. It was pure choas. Another teacher asked to have more copies of the Language Arts test that was supposed to be given next week. Printers didn't work and copy machines were jammed and of course, we were short the Language Arts tests. I had to count two large piles of tests and help organize them.
The last task for me to complete for the day. I had to take down the old "star papers" off of the bulletin boards and replace them with the student's more recent papers. This exercise showed me and the teacher who did and who did not hand in work. Those of the students who did not hand in the paper, obviously had no paper hanging up next to their picture on the bulletin board.
Before we knew it, it was 2:50 and I was watching the students at their lockers while the teacher finished up the Social Studies lesson. By 2:55 everyone was dismissed and looked forward to their weekend.
This Wednesday will complete my approximate 10 hours of community service. I'll be back later on this week to fill everyone in on my final experience. Tonight, I plan to attend a Board of Educaiton meeting in my town as well. Further posts are expected.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Another 2 1/2 Hours at School
Today I went back to Newark to do some more community service in the classroom. I got to the school around 12:20-12:30, and started the afternoon off by making a poster. The Newark Public School System is supporting the Dominican Republic that was just struck by a hurricane. Each student is requested to bring in an everyday thing such as: shampoo, soap, mirrors, aluminum foil, and things of the sort. Since most of the Dominican Republic was devastated, the school system is trying to get the students to donate things to help rebuild the country.
First I wrote down everything that the students were requested to bring in. Then I cut them up into squares and threw them into a hat. [At the end of the day, students were asked to randomly pick a piece of paper.] Then, I made a large, colorful poster with each product listed on it and a check box next to it. The objective is to get everyone to bring in something for the Relief fund.
I finished the cutting and poster around 1:45, and class ends at 2:55, so I still had a little over an hour. The teacher gave me a notebook and requested that I go to the back of the classroom and take each student individually and have them read one paragraph to me. She had me check if the student read fluent or if he or she had a "word attack," which is if they stumbled on a certain word or if they had to sound-and-blend a few words. I liked this activity because it gave me the opportunity to finally get to know some of the students. There are about thirty children in the class, and it is very hard to remember all their names but to know their faces is a pleasure.
Around 2:45 I handed out the bag with the names in it and made sure everyone knew what they were requested to bring in for the Relief fund. The teacher was helping a group of students towards the end of the day, so she asked me to get the students ready to go to their lockers. Each group of five was dismissed to their lockers around 2:50 and I had to watch them pack and make sure they all reported back to their seats to put their chairs up.
Tomorrow, there is a Social Studies test, so the teacher asked me to help her grade them because it is the last day of the cycle and all grades are due. Report cards will be distributed next week, and she says that she really needs help grading.
Until tomorrow!!!!
First I wrote down everything that the students were requested to bring in. Then I cut them up into squares and threw them into a hat. [At the end of the day, students were asked to randomly pick a piece of paper.] Then, I made a large, colorful poster with each product listed on it and a check box next to it. The objective is to get everyone to bring in something for the Relief fund.
I finished the cutting and poster around 1:45, and class ends at 2:55, so I still had a little over an hour. The teacher gave me a notebook and requested that I go to the back of the classroom and take each student individually and have them read one paragraph to me. She had me check if the student read fluent or if he or she had a "word attack," which is if they stumbled on a certain word or if they had to sound-and-blend a few words. I liked this activity because it gave me the opportunity to finally get to know some of the students. There are about thirty children in the class, and it is very hard to remember all their names but to know their faces is a pleasure.
Around 2:45 I handed out the bag with the names in it and made sure everyone knew what they were requested to bring in for the Relief fund. The teacher was helping a group of students towards the end of the day, so she asked me to get the students ready to go to their lockers. Each group of five was dismissed to their lockers around 2:50 and I had to watch them pack and make sure they all reported back to their seats to put their chairs up.
Tomorrow, there is a Social Studies test, so the teacher asked me to help her grade them because it is the last day of the cycle and all grades are due. Report cards will be distributed next week, and she says that she really needs help grading.
Until tomorrow!!!!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
My First Meeting Attended
Today, besides the community service portion, I also attended a faculty meeting in the Newark District. There were various topics discussed at the meeting, that both intrigued and bored faculty members.
The principal was in a lovely mood and his charismatic personality helped set the mood for the meeting. Teachers forewarned the students that go to MSU that we may be "bored." The principal introduced many different members of clubs and discussed many topics about events that were going to occur - especially on November 30th.
Some topics included: Rutgers University having courses dedicated to professional development, parent conferences, adjunct applications for MSU, Hispanic Appreciation month, social dances for the 6,7, and 8th grades, the food bank, programs for the Gifted and Talented students, and problems about "Highly Qualified" teachers. If the teacher is not highly qualified, they may need to take a PRAXIS exam in order to teach their subject. On a lighter note, staff dinners and holiday dinners were also brought up at the meeting.
Overall, the meeting went by quickly and I do plan on attending a Board of Education meeting in my town of Carlstadt, next Tuesday, November 20th.
As for the teachers, they joked and said we would be bored, but maybe [as an outsider], I was pretty interested in hearing and learning what the teachers need to think about on an ordinary basis.
The principal was in a lovely mood and his charismatic personality helped set the mood for the meeting. Teachers forewarned the students that go to MSU that we may be "bored." The principal introduced many different members of clubs and discussed many topics about events that were going to occur - especially on November 30th.
Some topics included: Rutgers University having courses dedicated to professional development, parent conferences, adjunct applications for MSU, Hispanic Appreciation month, social dances for the 6,7, and 8th grades, the food bank, programs for the Gifted and Talented students, and problems about "Highly Qualified" teachers. If the teacher is not highly qualified, they may need to take a PRAXIS exam in order to teach their subject. On a lighter note, staff dinners and holiday dinners were also brought up at the meeting.
Overall, the meeting went by quickly and I do plan on attending a Board of Education meeting in my town of Carlstadt, next Tuesday, November 20th.
As for the teachers, they joked and said we would be bored, but maybe [as an outsider], I was pretty interested in hearing and learning what the teachers need to think about on an ordinary basis.
Field Experience # 3 / First 2 1/2 Hours...
Well, today I started my third portion of my initial field experience. I stayed at the school for two and a half hours [12:30-3:00]. As like last time, the classroom was very hectic, but the students remembered who I was and seemed to be happy to see me. They greeted me when I walked in the door after their lunch period. My site liasion, as usual was in a very pleasant mood, and welcomed me.
Since I stayed for only about two and a half hours, I agreed to help grade a stack of papers that seemed to be piled to the ceiling. There are about 30-35 students in each of the teacher's two sections, so I had between 60-75 reading comprehension tests to grade.
After I marked the tests, [it took me over an hour...] the teacher needed me to record the grades into her plan book and then on to the computer for submission. I felt honored that the teacher, who is a seasoned teacher, trusted me enough to record her grades. Time was ticking away and the teacher needed me to help her hand in the grades because the main office needed to know who made the honor roll.
I noticed that many students got 100's on the test, while others got 10's, 20's, and 30's. It was a shame. I noticed the students with the lower grades persistently had lower grades throuhghout the cycle. [The same applies to the students who acheived a 90 or better.]
Before I knew it, it was 2:45 and everything that the teacher requested was completed. For the last fifteen minutes of class, I helped dismiss children to thier lockers and helped the teacher get the students out of the class because there was a faculty meeting.
I will be going back to the classroom tomorrow again from 12:30-3:00 pm for another 2 1/2 hours of community service. The teacher advised me that the student teacher will be in the classroom tomorrow, so I'm sure I can work with her and help her get some things accomplished.
Check back tomorrow!
Since I stayed for only about two and a half hours, I agreed to help grade a stack of papers that seemed to be piled to the ceiling. There are about 30-35 students in each of the teacher's two sections, so I had between 60-75 reading comprehension tests to grade.
After I marked the tests, [it took me over an hour...] the teacher needed me to record the grades into her plan book and then on to the computer for submission. I felt honored that the teacher, who is a seasoned teacher, trusted me enough to record her grades. Time was ticking away and the teacher needed me to help her hand in the grades because the main office needed to know who made the honor roll.
I noticed that many students got 100's on the test, while others got 10's, 20's, and 30's. It was a shame. I noticed the students with the lower grades persistently had lower grades throuhghout the cycle. [The same applies to the students who acheived a 90 or better.]
Before I knew it, it was 2:45 and everything that the teacher requested was completed. For the last fifteen minutes of class, I helped dismiss children to thier lockers and helped the teacher get the students out of the class because there was a faculty meeting.
I will be going back to the classroom tomorrow again from 12:30-3:00 pm for another 2 1/2 hours of community service. The teacher advised me that the student teacher will be in the classroom tomorrow, so I'm sure I can work with her and help her get some things accomplished.
Check back tomorrow!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Reading and Class Discussion for November 12th
Today's class seemed to drag a bit today because I wasn't feeling well. I had a severe migraine, but no worries, some parts of me were still in class!
To start off my blog for today.. I want talk about the headlines. For the first headline, it discussed a teacher refusing to give the test to students. As a new teacher, or even as a seasoned teacher, I do not think that I would have the nerve to go against the system and just refuse to give the test. I think that today's standards are so set so high for students that teachers actually feel bad for them. It still is part of the state's requirements; therefore, it is a teacher's job to do what he or she is forced to do.
For the second headline, it brings up the topic of whether or not it is indeed helpful or not to keep a child back a grade. I think it all depends on the age level and social and behavioral skills the student has. Like we mentioned in class, parents never really want to face the fact that their child isn't adapting well in the classroom and often do not want their child "labeled," but in some cases, it is better because they will get the help that is needed. I think if the child is going to be left back, it is better to do it while they are younger so they will grow and mature with the right group of people at the right time. Skipping a grade is another big question. Sometimes a child who is in the 3rd grade is reading at a 6Th grade level, but is it a wise decision to skip the grade? Sometimes it is better off keeping children where they belong in age-wise classrooms.
Getting to the point of inclusion: I think that inclusion can be a good thing. I have many friends who have ADD or ADHD and were never technically "picked on" because of their learning disability. I think that it is in the child's BEST interest to get the extra help that he or she needs. As for the Gifted and Talented children as well, I think that schools should at least try to provide programs to help them get along as well.
Lastly, I wanted to make a brief comment on the last video clip we watched. There were two teachers with two children [with different ages], who were acting up in class. I think that both scenarios depended on race, the ages of the students, the teachers [because they were both first-year teachers], the families of the students, and lastly, whether or not the children were academically gifted or not. The black boy had a black teacher. I think that it may have been a different situation if he had a white teacher. On the other hand, the white boy had a white teacher, I think that he would have had a different scenario as well. Also, both students were males with female teachers. Maybe if the boys had male teachers, they would respect them more? The younger boy's parents came in to school when he was acting up... GREAT idea. The boy disappointed his father and I think that by bringing the parents into school.. the teacher really got her point across to the boy. The other boy though probably will not have as important lasting effect because his family wasn't notified, and he can easily forge his parent's signature.
To start off my blog for today.. I want talk about the headlines. For the first headline, it discussed a teacher refusing to give the test to students. As a new teacher, or even as a seasoned teacher, I do not think that I would have the nerve to go against the system and just refuse to give the test. I think that today's standards are so set so high for students that teachers actually feel bad for them. It still is part of the state's requirements; therefore, it is a teacher's job to do what he or she is forced to do.
For the second headline, it brings up the topic of whether or not it is indeed helpful or not to keep a child back a grade. I think it all depends on the age level and social and behavioral skills the student has. Like we mentioned in class, parents never really want to face the fact that their child isn't adapting well in the classroom and often do not want their child "labeled," but in some cases, it is better because they will get the help that is needed. I think if the child is going to be left back, it is better to do it while they are younger so they will grow and mature with the right group of people at the right time. Skipping a grade is another big question. Sometimes a child who is in the 3rd grade is reading at a 6Th grade level, but is it a wise decision to skip the grade? Sometimes it is better off keeping children where they belong in age-wise classrooms.
Getting to the point of inclusion: I think that inclusion can be a good thing. I have many friends who have ADD or ADHD and were never technically "picked on" because of their learning disability. I think that it is in the child's BEST interest to get the extra help that he or she needs. As for the Gifted and Talented children as well, I think that schools should at least try to provide programs to help them get along as well.
Lastly, I wanted to make a brief comment on the last video clip we watched. There were two teachers with two children [with different ages], who were acting up in class. I think that both scenarios depended on race, the ages of the students, the teachers [because they were both first-year teachers], the families of the students, and lastly, whether or not the children were academically gifted or not. The black boy had a black teacher. I think that it may have been a different situation if he had a white teacher. On the other hand, the white boy had a white teacher, I think that he would have had a different scenario as well. Also, both students were males with female teachers. Maybe if the boys had male teachers, they would respect them more? The younger boy's parents came in to school when he was acting up... GREAT idea. The boy disappointed his father and I think that by bringing the parents into school.. the teacher really got her point across to the boy. The other boy though probably will not have as important lasting effect because his family wasn't notified, and he can easily forge his parent's signature.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Class Discussion & Readings for November 5th
Today for some reason, class went by very quickly. I presented my headline today about the severe rise in autism. I couldn't stress enough in class how autism has changed in the past years. From the boy I grew up with, to the new boy that lives across the street from me.. the many stages and types of autism are simply, unremarkable. I would love to learn more about it. Becoming teachers, I think we all need to be aware that these children who may even have a touch of autism... have special needs.
The two other headlines were interesting too. The first one with the project with the money. It is a gray-cloud area exactly what the teacher was trying to get out with this project, but whatever he was trying to prove, he was trying to prove. Most kids probably would keep the money anyway. College readiness is another important issue in education. I think that high schools today should focus more on preparing students to be more college-prepared. I feel like tenured teachers should focus more on their students' futures than wasting their times.
As for the readings that were due for today, there are many controversial topics regarding the No Child Left Behind Act. There are pros and cons. Many teachers teach to the test.. but nowadays you have to. I especially liked the clip we watched today in class with the parent that came in to talk to the teacher. I liked the way the teacher was patient, and even when she felt as if she didn't know and much as she could... she tried to explain herself as much as she could. I think that being a good, intelligent, teacher.. you have to keep your guard up and be patient with the parents. The most important thing to do is keep in mind, you are doing what you are required to do and that is all that matters.
The two other headlines were interesting too. The first one with the project with the money. It is a gray-cloud area exactly what the teacher was trying to get out with this project, but whatever he was trying to prove, he was trying to prove. Most kids probably would keep the money anyway. College readiness is another important issue in education. I think that high schools today should focus more on preparing students to be more college-prepared. I feel like tenured teachers should focus more on their students' futures than wasting their times.
As for the readings that were due for today, there are many controversial topics regarding the No Child Left Behind Act. There are pros and cons. Many teachers teach to the test.. but nowadays you have to. I especially liked the clip we watched today in class with the parent that came in to talk to the teacher. I liked the way the teacher was patient, and even when she felt as if she didn't know and much as she could... she tried to explain herself as much as she could. I think that being a good, intelligent, teacher.. you have to keep your guard up and be patient with the parents. The most important thing to do is keep in mind, you are doing what you are required to do and that is all that matters.
Monday, October 29, 2007
A Brief Review of Today's Class - 10/29
Today's class was another 2 1/2 hours of pure, useful, controversial, information. The headlines in class always seem to get every one's interest and fill the classroom with many points and arguments. In my opinion, throughout the semester I think that by starting class with headlines, it is a good idea to break the ice and get everyone talking.
The most interesting headline, in my opinion, was the obesity/overweight headline. Like I mentioned in class, many schools have gym everyday but children are not "forced" to do certain things. It feels like gym time is just an hour to relax with other kids and not to "exercise." Quite blunt, it is almost ridiculous. A better way to get children to be healthier is to cut the sweets out completely and lower the prices in the cafeteria. Gym class should be a little more strict and teachers should stick to the curriculum.
Getting the the charter school information.. like I mentioned in my last post.. charter schools have teachers who work longer, harder hours.. and the topic of tenure was mentioned. Do they get it? Is there a union that helps teachers out? For all the hard work and heart that these teachers put in the job, I think they should have some more protection.
Lastly, some of the copyright rules that were presented in class today made me very confused. I feel like the teachers that I had through the years almost abandoned these important rules, and could have got in a lot of trouble for that! Many teachers should be very careful what material they present to the class and what to copy and not to copy.
The most interesting headline, in my opinion, was the obesity/overweight headline. Like I mentioned in class, many schools have gym everyday but children are not "forced" to do certain things. It feels like gym time is just an hour to relax with other kids and not to "exercise." Quite blunt, it is almost ridiculous. A better way to get children to be healthier is to cut the sweets out completely and lower the prices in the cafeteria. Gym class should be a little more strict and teachers should stick to the curriculum.
Getting the the charter school information.. like I mentioned in my last post.. charter schools have teachers who work longer, harder hours.. and the topic of tenure was mentioned. Do they get it? Is there a union that helps teachers out? For all the hard work and heart that these teachers put in the job, I think they should have some more protection.
Lastly, some of the copyright rules that were presented in class today made me very confused. I feel like the teachers that I had through the years almost abandoned these important rules, and could have got in a lot of trouble for that! Many teachers should be very careful what material they present to the class and what to copy and not to copy.
Charter Schools... The Reading for October 29th
Although this week's reading requirement was not as hectic as usual, but the topic that was brought up was very interesting. Just to keep everyone up-to-date... I am still in the process of my field experience. I did my shadowing, I am planning on attending a meeting on November 17Th, and I have been trying very hard to get in contact with my site liaison to help her in the classroom as one part of the community service...
...As stressful as that sounds, back to the reading. I was a little confused about the whole "charter school" concept. I heard the term before but never truly understood what it meant. Charter schools are institutions that can be formulated by communities or people that have a specific purpose -- a subject area. Everything in the charter school is not "taught to the test" as you hear in almost every public school setting. Charter schools have teachers that work long, hard hours, with potentially less pay and work with students with certain abilities that they enjoy because they are good at them.
I think that charter schools are a great idea because if teachers are working hard and presenting a result, and at the same time students are learning, having fun, and enjoying themselves while comprehending the material... is all that should matter.
...As stressful as that sounds, back to the reading. I was a little confused about the whole "charter school" concept. I heard the term before but never truly understood what it meant. Charter schools are institutions that can be formulated by communities or people that have a specific purpose -- a subject area. Everything in the charter school is not "taught to the test" as you hear in almost every public school setting. Charter schools have teachers that work long, hard hours, with potentially less pay and work with students with certain abilities that they enjoy because they are good at them.
I think that charter schools are a great idea because if teachers are working hard and presenting a result, and at the same time students are learning, having fun, and enjoying themselves while comprehending the material... is all that should matter.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Monday's Discussion
Once again, Monday's discussion led to some controversial issues. One of the first issues was giving the pill to middle school students. Honestly, if urban schools are having high pregnancy rates, I think that the pill should be distributed. I also believe that the parent's consent is needed. I do not think that it is a good idea to have these small children taking the pill without their parent's knowing about it. Like mentioned in class, the pill can have harmful effects sometimes and if no one konws about the girl taking the pill... it may interact with other medications. The school should have high authority, but a child's parents always come first.
Getting to the issue on upper vs. lower class, it is a big problem in American schools today. Children are automatically branded by other students and teachers by where and who they grow up with. It is a shame because students who may come from a family with domestic violence or who suffers through poverty may have the same potential as students from a great family and a clean suburban area.
Lastly, another topic that came to my interest was what a teacher can and cannot get fired for. I can't believe a teacher cannot get arrested for smoking marijuana but could get fired for making homosexual moves on another teacher. What is this world coming to? I also think the whole issue of having a sex change can lead to termination is ridiculous. I know great people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender. It doesn't affect how they do their jobs. If a teacher is any of the above, PUBLICLY, I think that it is his or her choice and I think that it shouldn't affect what goes on in the classroom.
Getting to the issue on upper vs. lower class, it is a big problem in American schools today. Children are automatically branded by other students and teachers by where and who they grow up with. It is a shame because students who may come from a family with domestic violence or who suffers through poverty may have the same potential as students from a great family and a clean suburban area.
Lastly, another topic that came to my interest was what a teacher can and cannot get fired for. I can't believe a teacher cannot get arrested for smoking marijuana but could get fired for making homosexual moves on another teacher. What is this world coming to? I also think the whole issue of having a sex change can lead to termination is ridiculous. I know great people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender. It doesn't affect how they do their jobs. If a teacher is any of the above, PUBLICLY, I think that it is his or her choice and I think that it shouldn't affect what goes on in the classroom.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Case Study # 2 // Online Quiz
When I read this Case Study, I was pretty shocked. I also took the brief on-line quiz about what teachers can get fired for. I only got one answer wrong. I wasn't sure they could neccessarily get FIRED for cursing in class.
I linked the reading to the quiz because even though Julie Amero was only a substitute teacher, her whole career is now in jeopardy. I think that the school totally misunderstood Julie's plea. Honestly, what I got out of the Case Study is that she tried desperately to try to get help turning the computer off and there wasn't a response because she was "only a substute." I think that schools need to pay more attention to substitute teachers bceause nine times out of ten, they are our future teachers.
This Case Study disturbed me greatly because I think that the school did not give Julie a chance. She claimed she tried to find different people throughout the whole day and she even consulted with the assistant principal after school and toook the time to call the next day to talk to the principal.
I think that it is the school's responsiblity to make sure each electronic device is turned off if the teacher is not in the classroom. I remember when I was both in elementary and high school the computers were not allowed on unless our teacher was in school. To be on the safe side, the school in which Julie was subbing at, should have been more strict with thier policies.
I linked the reading to the quiz because even though Julie Amero was only a substitute teacher, her whole career is now in jeopardy. I think that the school totally misunderstood Julie's plea. Honestly, what I got out of the Case Study is that she tried desperately to try to get help turning the computer off and there wasn't a response because she was "only a substute." I think that schools need to pay more attention to substitute teachers bceause nine times out of ten, they are our future teachers.
This Case Study disturbed me greatly because I think that the school did not give Julie a chance. She claimed she tried to find different people throughout the whole day and she even consulted with the assistant principal after school and toook the time to call the next day to talk to the principal.
I think that it is the school's responsiblity to make sure each electronic device is turned off if the teacher is not in the classroom. I remember when I was both in elementary and high school the computers were not allowed on unless our teacher was in school. To be on the safe side, the school in which Julie was subbing at, should have been more strict with thier policies.
My Shadowing Day - October 17, 2007
Wow, Wednesday was a LONG day. You really do not know how much work it is to be a teacher. You have to be prepared, organized, and READY for changes that come throughout the day. My experience went great, and the day went very fast as well.
To begin, school starts at 8:25 am. The teachers are usually there by 7:30-8:00. The classroom is clean, neat, and ready for the children to learn in beforehand. Class objectives are written on the board with the date to help children get organized. Class starts with a journal entry for the day and within a few minutes of being in class... the school announcements and the Pledge of Allegiance comes on the loudspeaker. One of the announcements was that the faculty meeting that I was planning to attend was canceled due to the teacher-conventions in the following week.
I was in a Language Arts class throughout the whole day, and at this particular school... 5Th graders do not necessarily "switch classes," like in Middle School settings, but they do not keep the same teacher for the full day of school. My morning class was my site liaison's homeroom class. Students were separated into 5 groups of 6 kids. Each group had a specific task to do. For example, reading, writing, revising, or speaking with the teacher. Discipline rules were set out by the teacher and were enforced greatly. Any student who opened his/her mouth during the assignment got the proper punishment of moving to another side of the room and being forced to the the work independently. The teacher had a site of strict rules that the children needed to follow. I think it was a great idea to get students to focus more on their work than leaving the room every two minutes.
From about 9:45-11:45 the class did this activity with only one break [for library class]. The librarian was not in school that day so there was a substitute. When the students had library class, the teacher had a prep period when she walked around and talked to the student teacher and I about her experiences over the years.
At 11:45-12:15[12:30] it was lunchtime. Lunch goes SO fast when you are constantly on the go. By the time you finish your last bite it was OFF TO CLASS once again!
From 12:30-2:55 there was a second group of students who seemed to be better behaved than the first group of students. They did the same activities as the morning class and around 2:20-2:30, had a Social Studies lesson that was prepared by the student teacher.
Before I knew it, the time was 2:55 and it was time to go. I would definitely like to go back to the school system where I was on Wednesday for another learning experience. I wish I could have more experience teaching the class, rather than just observing! Well, my time will come.
As for both the site liaison and the student teacher, they both were very nice and polite to me. They gave me their email addresses and told me to keep in contact with them. They both reassured me that I will love what I do if I put my heart into it.
For me, shadowing was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back into a classroom setting and be the teacher rather than the student.
To begin, school starts at 8:25 am. The teachers are usually there by 7:30-8:00. The classroom is clean, neat, and ready for the children to learn in beforehand. Class objectives are written on the board with the date to help children get organized. Class starts with a journal entry for the day and within a few minutes of being in class... the school announcements and the Pledge of Allegiance comes on the loudspeaker. One of the announcements was that the faculty meeting that I was planning to attend was canceled due to the teacher-conventions in the following week.
I was in a Language Arts class throughout the whole day, and at this particular school... 5Th graders do not necessarily "switch classes," like in Middle School settings, but they do not keep the same teacher for the full day of school. My morning class was my site liaison's homeroom class. Students were separated into 5 groups of 6 kids. Each group had a specific task to do. For example, reading, writing, revising, or speaking with the teacher. Discipline rules were set out by the teacher and were enforced greatly. Any student who opened his/her mouth during the assignment got the proper punishment of moving to another side of the room and being forced to the the work independently. The teacher had a site of strict rules that the children needed to follow. I think it was a great idea to get students to focus more on their work than leaving the room every two minutes.
From about 9:45-11:45 the class did this activity with only one break [for library class]. The librarian was not in school that day so there was a substitute. When the students had library class, the teacher had a prep period when she walked around and talked to the student teacher and I about her experiences over the years.
At 11:45-12:15[12:30] it was lunchtime. Lunch goes SO fast when you are constantly on the go. By the time you finish your last bite it was OFF TO CLASS once again!
From 12:30-2:55 there was a second group of students who seemed to be better behaved than the first group of students. They did the same activities as the morning class and around 2:20-2:30, had a Social Studies lesson that was prepared by the student teacher.
Before I knew it, the time was 2:55 and it was time to go. I would definitely like to go back to the school system where I was on Wednesday for another learning experience. I wish I could have more experience teaching the class, rather than just observing! Well, my time will come.
As for both the site liaison and the student teacher, they both were very nice and polite to me. They gave me their email addresses and told me to keep in contact with them. They both reassured me that I will love what I do if I put my heart into it.
For me, shadowing was a great experience and I cannot wait to go back into a classroom setting and be the teacher rather than the student.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Today's Orientation
Today was the first day that our class visited the school we are going to be observing. First, I have to say that I was simply amazed by how nice the school was and how nice the particular part of Newark was! People always criticize how the city is, and like I mentioned in my previous blog... you never know until you are there for yourself. Overall, I really enjoyed my experience today and I look forward to working with my site liazon.
I particuluary enjoyed getting to associate with certain members of the facolty. Every person was very polite and encouraging and really helped me understand key points [within the brief 5 minute period]. I got a lot of information out of the first year teacher, the union representive, and the student teachers. Anything I agree more with is the fact that people were HONEST with you. I think that the student teachers blunty told you what to expect in the next couple of years and I also liked how the first year teacher told us her experience and how she had first day jitters, but that will all go away with time. The union representative also helped our group with several key factors that we should know and how teaching as a career has many benefits. I am pretty thankful that my mother works in the school system and already advised me as much as she could on the teacher's union. More more aspect of today's meeting was the Parent Association. I think it is a GREAT idea for parents to volunteer in their children's schools to help not only their children get more involved, but also give back to the community at the same time.
Lastly, the tour, though brief was very nice. All the classrooms seem to be pretty technology-advanced, as in my town's new school and will be very helpful to students. Our tour guides were so proud to show us around! My site liazon was very polite to me and she seems like she will be a very nice woman to work with. I booked my full-day shadowing for this coming Wednesday, October 17th. Like menitoned before, I am looking forward to working with her and will definitely keep the class updated on what happens during the day! I also chose to attend a meeting on Wednesday as well. We'll see how everything goes!
Until then!
I particuluary enjoyed getting to associate with certain members of the facolty. Every person was very polite and encouraging and really helped me understand key points [within the brief 5 minute period]. I got a lot of information out of the first year teacher, the union representive, and the student teachers. Anything I agree more with is the fact that people were HONEST with you. I think that the student teachers blunty told you what to expect in the next couple of years and I also liked how the first year teacher told us her experience and how she had first day jitters, but that will all go away with time. The union representative also helped our group with several key factors that we should know and how teaching as a career has many benefits. I am pretty thankful that my mother works in the school system and already advised me as much as she could on the teacher's union. More more aspect of today's meeting was the Parent Association. I think it is a GREAT idea for parents to volunteer in their children's schools to help not only their children get more involved, but also give back to the community at the same time.
Lastly, the tour, though brief was very nice. All the classrooms seem to be pretty technology-advanced, as in my town's new school and will be very helpful to students. Our tour guides were so proud to show us around! My site liazon was very polite to me and she seems like she will be a very nice woman to work with. I booked my full-day shadowing for this coming Wednesday, October 17th. Like menitoned before, I am looking forward to working with her and will definitely keep the class updated on what happens during the day! I also chose to attend a meeting on Wednesday as well. We'll see how everything goes!
Until then!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Monday, October 8, 2007
I am not going to lie. A 2 1/2 hour class on long readings can seem a bit overwhelming at times, but some parts of the discussion really hit home for me. I personally liked today's readings because I feel closely linked to them. All of us encounter the college tuition problems. I come from a good family with two working parents and I have a 3.94 GPA.. yet I still PAY for college. My SAT's weren't to Montclair's liking - so I'm not helped out...
Besides that issue.. the foster care article got to me. My parents took in a 15-year old boy back in 2000. He was a special education student who came from a broken family with no money and his father dropped dead unexpectedly. His family came from a drug-invested background and there was a lot of domestic violence. When his family got evicted, my parents took control. He was on the honor roll, attending school everyday, and working part-time. Once his mother needed him to go back home to help pay rent for the family's new apartment... he quit school, got hooked on drugs, got arrested periodically, and wound up overdosing on drugs. My parents helped this kid out. In my opinion, if he would have stayed with us.. he would still be here. Foster families aren't as bad as you think.
As for the statitistics... I was quite shocked how society viewed the importance of education. It is almost a shame that the parents, students, teachers, and pricipals come so low on the education scale also because they are the people that you think of when you say the world "school." It is ridiculous how
Besides that issue.. the foster care article got to me. My parents took in a 15-year old boy back in 2000. He was a special education student who came from a broken family with no money and his father dropped dead unexpectedly. His family came from a drug-invested background and there was a lot of domestic violence. When his family got evicted, my parents took control. He was on the honor roll, attending school everyday, and working part-time. Once his mother needed him to go back home to help pay rent for the family's new apartment... he quit school, got hooked on drugs, got arrested periodically, and wound up overdosing on drugs. My parents helped this kid out. In my opinion, if he would have stayed with us.. he would still be here. Foster families aren't as bad as you think.
As for the statitistics... I was quite shocked how society viewed the importance of education. It is almost a shame that the parents, students, teachers, and pricipals come so low on the education scale also because they are the people that you think of when you say the world "school." It is ridiculous how
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Readings for this week... [October 8, 2007]
Starting with the brief reading about Newark... I think that areas are looked down upon because of stereotypic things that go on in this world. For example, when I found out we were going to be shadowing in Newark, I'm not going to lie.. I was nervous. That weekend I saw a shirt saying, "Newark, We're not in Kansas Anymore," with Dorothy and two shot guns in her hand. It is not all about the "killings." Newark is a very prosperious area with a lot of rich history behind it. Rutgers University, the new Devil's stadium, and Newark International Airport are just a few of Newark's fascinating features. Until we go to the school, until we observe the children, and until we see for ourselves how the area is.. there is no room for comments.
As for the article about the Education Bank, I think that this is a great idea! Having an education bank will, if anything, only improve society's schools. Teachers are in this thing called a "union" that I was raised to know, will fight for your job. I think that it would be a great idea if the teachers union got together and saved some money in an American Education Bank simply bceause if something ever does happen, like Hurrican Katrina, the bank will have extra money in it to spare rebuiling. Another positive side of the Education Bank is to help urban schools get more advanced to help even under privedlged children earn a good education like suburban-area students.
The longest article, [which my printer ran out of ink], made me think as well. I think that somewhere in the government's long agenda.. there should be more money funded for urban schools. They should be able to have the same ability to produce education as suburban areas. Teachers in both suburburan and urban areas should also be compensated for their duties. Especially for urban-area schools, teahcers should be paid more money because of issues that go on in cities. For example, poverty, domestic problems, and little things like hygiene issues should be look at as well. Teachers of urban schools not only have to perform the duty as a teacher but also at least try to ensure that their students are coming to school trying to have the best enviornment to learn in. Its a very tricky situation to be in, but government has to have some kind of money to help ensure the education of all students.. that's another reason to go back to the previous article and keep a bank for educational purposes only.
As for the article about the Education Bank, I think that this is a great idea! Having an education bank will, if anything, only improve society's schools. Teachers are in this thing called a "union" that I was raised to know, will fight for your job. I think that it would be a great idea if the teachers union got together and saved some money in an American Education Bank simply bceause if something ever does happen, like Hurrican Katrina, the bank will have extra money in it to spare rebuiling. Another positive side of the Education Bank is to help urban schools get more advanced to help even under privedlged children earn a good education like suburban-area students.
The longest article, [which my printer ran out of ink], made me think as well. I think that somewhere in the government's long agenda.. there should be more money funded for urban schools. They should be able to have the same ability to produce education as suburban areas. Teachers in both suburburan and urban areas should also be compensated for their duties. Especially for urban-area schools, teahcers should be paid more money because of issues that go on in cities. For example, poverty, domestic problems, and little things like hygiene issues should be look at as well. Teachers of urban schools not only have to perform the duty as a teacher but also at least try to ensure that their students are coming to school trying to have the best enviornment to learn in. Its a very tricky situation to be in, but government has to have some kind of money to help ensure the education of all students.. that's another reason to go back to the previous article and keep a bank for educational purposes only.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Class Discussion - 10/1/07
Today's class was quite interesting. I enjoyed our discussion on the various articles.. especially the history as part of a standardized testing practice. Maybe I am old-fashioned, but I am not even into the idea that students should be judged based on a test... especially something like the SAT's. Anyway, if children are going to be tested, the best way to go about it is testing based on EVERYTHING things - like math, reading, and writing. Science and history in my opinion, aren't neccessarily as important to be tested about on standardized tests. Not that I think they are not important, but if society is going to test these students, at least test on something that is used everyday.. not cells and plants.
As for bilingual classes, it's a 50/50 kind of attitude. Some parts of me say.. teaching a language is a great idea while some other parts of me say that today's teachers have not teaching language classes as they should. I think that a more varied list of languages should be offered in public schools including, polish, italian, german, and chinese. It is important - if we want to keep a salad bowl kind of society, that we welcome all languages and cultures instead of just spanish. [I use the language of spanish because that is offered in many schools today.]
As for bilingual classes, it's a 50/50 kind of attitude. Some parts of me say.. teaching a language is a great idea while some other parts of me say that today's teachers have not teaching language classes as they should. I think that a more varied list of languages should be offered in public schools including, polish, italian, german, and chinese. It is important - if we want to keep a salad bowl kind of society, that we welcome all languages and cultures instead of just spanish. [I use the language of spanish because that is offered in many schools today.]
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Readings for October 1st
First, I would like to begin my blog about the PDF file. [Personally, I enjoying reading the PDF files more because they seem more interesting than the arguments in the textbook.] Anyway, starting with the PDF... I found the six strands of education to be pretty interesting and agreeable to a certain extent because number one, constructive learning - I agree with it. In my EDFD200 class last semester we discussed Piaget's constructivism. I believe that you do need to have prior knowledge, whether it is obtained from home or another classroom in regards to the new material being presented in class. Another strand I agreed with is getting to know your students. It is very important, especially in an urban setting to try to get to know your students - from their interests to part of their home lives, just in case there is ever a problem - the student can come to YOU as a mentor. As for the cultural differences strand, I believe that future teachers should be better prepared to teach students of different ethnicity's, backgrounds, languages, and home lives. With the future years, everything is changing and it is VERY important to base your classroom as a place where everyone from everywhere can come together as one. The white generation is still dominant, but it is important to combine other backgrounds and colors into the "salad bowl." As I learned in my EDFD220 class, it is important for all the cultures to come together but not over step each other's boundaries.
Second, I would like to briefly comment on the arguments in the book. For Issue #5, I feel that Stephen Macedo is correct by saying that it is in the public school's best interest to teach students to become good citizens. It is all what you are taught to do in school - how you are going to end up in your future. Teachers are those special people who help you along the way. Issue # 16 - regarding the bilingual education changes in the public school systems-- I would have to agree with Richard Rothstein and argue that these classes are needed in the school systems especially because of rising miniotires. It is very important to keep bilingual programs around only to benefit future students. There is absolutely no reason to abandon them at all.
Second, I would like to briefly comment on the arguments in the book. For Issue #5, I feel that Stephen Macedo is correct by saying that it is in the public school's best interest to teach students to become good citizens. It is all what you are taught to do in school - how you are going to end up in your future. Teachers are those special people who help you along the way. Issue # 16 - regarding the bilingual education changes in the public school systems-- I would have to agree with Richard Rothstein and argue that these classes are needed in the school systems especially because of rising miniotires. It is very important to keep bilingual programs around only to benefit future students. There is absolutely no reason to abandon them at all.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Today's Discusssion
Today's discussion was somewhat based on the first Case Study. I found this Case Study to be pretty interesting just because it is so hard to balance both educational fun and standardized testing. The question arises all the time whether or not testing in classrooms should be standard, period. Honestly, I think that each classroom teacher should try to attempt to find a happy medium. For example, I feel that it is important to introduce the chapter towards the beginning of the week, take notes/quizzes on the material, maybe introduce a quick/fun project or paper, and then be tested on the material learned in class. It seems like a lot to absorb, but I think that once a teacher is skilled at what he/she does, it will almost come second nature. But then again... I'm not a teacher. Testing and standardized scores are important to not only the school, but to the teacher's career as well. Together as future teachers, it is our job to find that happy medium somewhere down the road.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Readings for September 24
I would definitely have to agree with Alan C. Jones' opinion about the standards in schools across the U.S. Teachers that enjoy teaching and find passion in it everyday have many more important things to worry about within a seven hour day than increasing the standards in their classrooms. I also read in the standard's write-up that textbooks are part of the standards. I remember when I was in grade school many teachers would complain how the book's way of doing things is a lot more intense, etc. For example, I remember word problems or math problems that were demonstrated in the textbook, the teacher would have an easier way of approaching it. Back to my opinion, I think that the standards should be a little less harsh and the curriculum should be more focused towards students and their capabilities to learn.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Our Class Discussion
Well, after a rough morning [tons of traffic, no parking, and an Italian quiz] it was a pleasure to come to class to learn about things that I am actually interested in. Although I seemed a bit tired in class, I was listening and enjoying our class discussion about the articles and the video clips.
As for the articles, my favorite was the cell phone issue. I am a firm believer that cell phones should be allowed in school, on silent but on the desk. God forbid something happens in class and cell phones are banned, it may be that one kid's phone that will save a life or prevent dange in the classroom.
The video clips were interesting to me as well. I liked the first cliup better even though I am interested in teaching English on the high school level. I remember when I was in elementary school and the teacher would conduct games like the one in the clip. We had fun and learned while still striving for a goal. As for "everyone being a winner," that may not be true in all circumstances, but it gives students the confidence to stay focused. Critics will criticize both sides of the issue no matter what the issue is anyway.... The high school scanerio bored me and to be quite honest with you, I thought it was a horrible activity.. no wonder the kids in the background were falling asleep!
As for the articles, my favorite was the cell phone issue. I am a firm believer that cell phones should be allowed in school, on silent but on the desk. God forbid something happens in class and cell phones are banned, it may be that one kid's phone that will save a life or prevent dange in the classroom.
The video clips were interesting to me as well. I liked the first cliup better even though I am interested in teaching English on the high school level. I remember when I was in elementary school and the teacher would conduct games like the one in the clip. We had fun and learned while still striving for a goal. As for "everyone being a winner," that may not be true in all circumstances, but it gives students the confidence to stay focused. Critics will criticize both sides of the issue no matter what the issue is anyway.... The high school scanerio bored me and to be quite honest with you, I thought it was a horrible activity.. no wonder the kids in the background were falling asleep!
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Readings for September 17
As I read the two readings due for tomorrow's class, at times I was a bit confused on some of the content. I feel that Eisner's chapter reflected more on what I believe a teacher/school's job is all about. I strongly agree on certain points of the chapter that stuck out at me. Especially the point that just because children are the same age, doesn't mean that they perform at the same level. Some may be at a grade or two above/below the rest of the class. I also strongly agree that it is more efficiant if a teacher has a cetain group of students for more than a few months to ensure a better teacher-student relationship.
Getting to the Noll debates... To be quite honest, I was a little uneasy about this reading but I think [and I hope] that I am on the right track... I have to side with Hutchins rather than Dewey on this issue of social experience. He says that it is true that students should learn based on their social experience. Students come into a classroom to become more educated men as Noll says. Without previous society experience without the word, "educated," students will have a harder time excelling in the classroom.
Getting to the Noll debates... To be quite honest, I was a little uneasy about this reading but I think [and I hope] that I am on the right track... I have to side with Hutchins rather than Dewey on this issue of social experience. He says that it is true that students should learn based on their social experience. Students come into a classroom to become more educated men as Noll says. Without previous society experience without the word, "educated," students will have a harder time excelling in the classroom.
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