2.12.08- Jon

Chapter 3 taught me that there are learning moments all around if you pay attention. It is important for any educator to tap into what is interesting the students and turn "lemons into lemonade." Know your standards and make the adaptations that work for your students; seize those educational momements. I also liked the part about teaching students empathy. You would think that a student would be able to read a persons facial features or be able to put themselves into the shoes of another person, but I truly think this, just like everything else, must be taught and modeled. It might even be developmental, not sure?

Chapter 4 was full of great ideas. I can't wait to get into the rest of this book. I flipped to the back of the book, and there is an outline of some really good lessons or units back there. Pen pals with college students possibly in a college of education who are learning about developmental writing, brilliant. Creating a community of ELL students of all ages, great idea. Seeking the passion out in your school and community and tapping into the resources of experience and knowledge all around you, genius. I does take a villiage to teach 1st grade, but it also takes a villiage to mentor new teachers, create a positive environment in your school, and create high standards and expectations for students. Whatever you are trying to accomplish in a school; it takes a villiage to make it work. I will always take that lesson with me.

P.S.- Had a great time at the race. You and Jim did a wonderful job. You already know it takes a villiage.

Thanks for coming!!

Jen--2/17/08

Chapter 3:  I thought this chapter was more about management and structure of a classroom.  I actually really enjoyed this layout because it gave me many ideas for me too!  I am already looking into certain books she mentioned including the Responsive Classroom.  Has anyone heard of this?  On the other hand as I am reading this chapter I am thinking, "Where is she teaching???" I want to teach here.  She calls it the Peace Class and it does seem so peaceful.  I am not hearing any stress about testing and expectations in her writing of this chapter.  She discusses how her class has a weekly Spanish lesson, art and cooking activities, 3 visitors or field trips a month, field trips are by bus or on foot, they go to the nearby marsh five times a year to observe seasonal changes, and go out in the schoolyard often to explore and observe.  Guess what grade? SECOND GRADE!!  This sounds incredible and exactly what I would want for my own children.  I am not sure if this type of classroom is out there but I know it isn't in the school I teach in.  I just really loved this chapter and I will be saving her daily schedule and outline for my future reference! This chapter really tied in with my book I am reading for Play class as well about Nature Deficit Disorder--she seems very active in getting her children to explore and love nature.

Response to Jon-- I too never really thought about the emotions and facial expressions needed to be taught.  Sometimes we just assume our kids know this. 

Chapter 4 : ok I LOVE this book! I can see why you keep reading Jon... I will definitely advocate to have this book be a part of a book club in our school! I want to be this teacher, I want to teach with this teacher :)  This book makes you think how we spend our time with our students.  Like I said earlier I feel I am surrounded by teach-to-the-test pressures in my school and even county.  Her ideas in this chapter are amazing and she is right-it never hurts to ask.  We could have so many guest visitors (even 3 a month) if we ask our community to be involved with our students.  I agree Jon, it takes a village to have a successful school.  After reading this chapter and all of the thoughts and ideas she has, I feel her administration trusts her as a teacher and she is probably able to teach and utilize whatever she needs to make her kids successful.  There doesn't seem to be any questioning about her teaching? I think that makes a difference as well.

Another thing I liked in this chapter is when she gives book titles she has read to students to help make connections with the students and topics and have them think critically about the topics in the books.  some great book titles and ideas...