Chapter 9 Reflection: Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person?
Mr Koziol was my 11th grade Language Arts teacher. He was just out of college,therefore very young. One of his tasks was to teach us the elements of poetry, but he knew that most of us were not into the subject. Mr. Koziol had an idea. Along with the general poems we had to cover,he also exposed us to the popular songs of our time. So he taught us the elements of poetry using the songs of the Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel among others. We were all facinated by this because we were all avid music listeners. In my case, I played in a rock band, so this approach tapped into my interest in music. Mr Koziol's instruction made these songs come alive in a brand new dimension.
I always loved the English language. By middle school I was opretty advanced, and by high school I could engage in a communicative conversation. I remember my teachers acknowledging my language skills and giving me some extr wiork and challenging me to go a step further. They would give me some classroom priviledges, and the roll to tutor or assist those who were strugging. Those little actions empowered me, and the challenges they presented to me made me get better and learn more and i truly appreciated, and appreciate what they did for believing in me and knowing all my potential and where I could get.
The teacher that saw me for me was my 10th grade Literature Teacher; she told me I was different. I didn’t understand what she meant by that. She would always tell me I was going to help & educate people and I knew she was right because I always wanted to be a doctor. She told me to always look at the world as a square because looking at it this way; I will always keep an open mind. Here that I was going places was a big help to me, because in the past, I was always told that people like me did not go places and I would not attend college. I always kept what she said in the back of my mind and I am helping people. I am a psychology major and I love working with the ESE & ESOL population. I not only work with my students, but I also work with their parents & their families. I learned to keep an open mind and look at people for you they are. I do not look at the world the same, because we are all different.
During middle school, I was in the 7th grade. I was enrolled in Algebra I. My teacher was Mr. Adams; he was a very distinguished looking guy. His mustache was very unique and noticeable. However, he was a phenomenal Math teacher. Of course, we all were young and energetic. My class was made up of advanced learners. So therefore, we were very talkative. Everyone would talk, yet every time I talked, Mr. Adams would call my name each time I engaged in conversations. One day, I was fed up when him calling my name. I expressed my dissatisfaction in front of the entire class. He became so upset with me that he moved me to the back of the room, away from everyone. I was so upset that every day I would come to class and slouch in my seat and stare off in space. I wanted him to think I was ignoring his instruction. He noticed, so he called on me to answer more questions than ever. Each time I would be correct with my responses. Although, I was isolated I was still absorbing all of the information. On the last day of class, he called me up to his desk and he explained to me why he changed my seat. He told me, I was his top student and I was being distracted by talking to the other students. I was so shocked and elated that I started crying. The entire time, I thought he disliked me. As of today, Math is still my favorite subject. Thanks to Mr. Adams, all my mathematical skills enable me to assist my own children and my students. Patreece Perry-Pelt
It was primary school, fifth and sixth grade, and being placed in centers, as an advanced learner was the best thing that could have happen for me. The teacher, mrs. phillips never ceased to challenge myself as well as all of her students. She was well organized, prepared and demanded excellence in all subjects including writing. In my adult life i have had a few adults that tap me on the shoulders and encourage me to become an educator. The journey was sometimes lonely and crowded. Sometimes i had little help and other times i had too much help, but never the less I completed the task to become an educator; however, i am still on the journey as an educator because being educated is perpetual. Karen Smith
When I was a little girl, I was fascinated by other cultures. My dream was to see the world. I wanted to explore all these wonderful places I saw on television. When my teacher began teaching me how to read, she found out about my passion. One day, she brought a travel magazine to class. I loved the pictures and I wanted to be there, but I couldn’t read what the print said. I was obsessed with this magazine, so my wonderful teacher gave it to me. I went home and asked my grandmother to teach me how to read the words. Pretty soon, I was recognizing the same patterns in other words. My mother got me more travel magazines. I would practice with my abuelita for hours. It was worth it! I learned how to read fluently very quickly. As a learner, I learned how to read which was the main purpose of the class. As a person, it gave me extensive knowledge about different cultures, and it inspired me to travel. Claudia Ocampo
The magic year of first grade made such an impression that I decided to become a teacher. I was determined to pass along my love of teaching reading and the joy I found each time I picked up a new book and discovered new people and places. This didn't happen over night. My first grade teacher, Mrs. Jefferson made it happen. I attended school in Elizabeth, New Jersey. My parents made the ultimate sacrifice leaving behind all that was too familiar in order to build a better life for my brother and I, far away from the communist country, known as CUBA. My parents both only spoke spanish. So Mrs. Jefferson had her hands full.
I can honestly say I learned to read both through whole langugae and through phonics. All I can remember was that I did struggle at first, but once I read fluently my first full sentence nothing stopped me from wanting to read. I read cereal boxes, comic strips, road signs and store advertisements. I sounded out unfamiliar words using the rules I learned in class and wrote new words laboriously on yellow lined paper. I made my own dictionary and included words I heard at dinner, on the television each night , and words my brother used. Little did I realize I was using the whole language method or the phonics method.
If it wasn't for Mrs. Jefferson's endless patience and belief that I can read, I probably wouldn't have enjoyed the reading process. I had the pleasure of rolling over with her onto second grade! Teachers shape your future, God Bless you Mrs. Jefferson!!
Four years ago, while living in Atlanta, I met a teacher at the school where I taught. She was very modest, but very progressive. We became friends. She would always tell me “You are so intelligent, do you know that?””You need to be more confident about yourself!”During our conversation one day, she asked me why am I not finishing my Specialist Degree? I really had no answer. I’d become a bit complacent; I had started it at Nova, but did not finish. She kept nagging me about completing it. A year prior she had obtained her ES at Lincoln Memorial in Tennessee in leadership, and she was now beginning her doctoral program. So, one day she brought me the application, she even gave me her books. She continued to encourage me and that pushed me to go back, and joined a cohort the next semester. A year later, I graduated with a specialist degree in curriculum and instruction. I would have completed it anyway, but her endearing way of telling me not to waste time gave me an edge. My salary increased as a result, and I am more comfortable about research projects. I am looking into completing my doctoral degree in the near future. I’m very indebted to her for taking time to care. As adults, we also need encouragements from others, and we have to bestow the same upon them.
I was an ESOL student during those years when it was the "Sink or Swim" days...you were thrown into a regular classes and it was up to you. I remember this witch of a teacher..Ms.O'Connor, she was a #%&*%@@, but thanks to her I am an ESOL teacher and am the complete opposite of how horrible she treated me. Those years where help but she the the engine that sparked me to do better to show her what I was really made of! Thanks GOD that I won. On a positive note I also had great teachers in High School that made me see the world in a better light. In College one of the teachers that built me up was Dr. Deluca, my sales and advertising, Professor...he was great and this passion he had I too care and give to my students and people I encounter in this school named Earth. I have been truly blessed and I am who I am because of life's trials and great/ and not so great people that have crossed my path we learn from everything! I also believe that we learn most from those worst of mistakes we make. Light, love and Energy...Efrem Figueredo
Though I have had many adults that have tapped into my interests, a most recent account was when I was a university student. As a music performance major, performing was 90% of my degree. I can honestly say that I was not the best performer compared to my colleagues. However, I found myself to be gifted more towards music composition. Discovering this, my professor (who was also my advisor) challenged me to compose as much as I could and then perform my work to make me a stronger performer. Though times my work just seemed like a dot on a page in my eyes, he saw something greater. If not for him challenging and encouraging me, I would not have five original published compositions today and would not be pursuing a MFA in Music Composition. I thank Dr. Ney Rosauro tremendously.
My first semester attending Miami Dade North Campus. My architecture-drawing instructor asked me to rethink my educational goals. HE never bothered to explain the assignments or offer any encouragements. He did inform me that I was failing his class until the last day of school. I have always believed in myself and can do all things through Christ. That day I sat in font of Miami Dade North and decided that was the last class I would ever fail in college. Thank you SIR for the negative encouragement. I have graduated from two universities with honors.
My second grade teacher, Mrs. Mize, noticed that I liked to write on my own time, especially when I was done with my work early. She asked to read some of my writing and she said that it was really good. At the end of the school year, Mrs. Mize, created a book (binded and published) with all of our classes' poetry, short stories, and illustrations. I felt like a real author!
My childhood passion is reptiles, sharks, and dinosaurs. I developed an enormous amount of background knowledge, reading National Geographic and anything I could find. By the time I arrived to 4th grade I was sufficiently bored with what teachers presented me. I asked my 4th grade teacher, Ms. Cambron, to show my favorite documentary on sharks. I then wrote a review sheet and test, which I gave to the class and graded. I went over the answers with the class, but I don't remember if my teacher put it into the gradebook.
I don’t really remember being so interested in something that an adult would notice or acknowledge. What I do remember is my seventh grade science teacher, Mr. Flores. My hometown had a population of about 60,000. Not many of us went on to college because that just wasn’t in the cards for low-socio economic Puerto-Rican children. Mr. Flores taught at one of the two middle schools in my town. He saw my lack of interest and motivation in school but also my potential. Mr. Flores wanted more for us so he exposed us to what was outside of my little world by taking us on trips that I probably would never gone on. The one trip I remember the most is when we went to M.I.T. for a big Science Fair. Being exposed to the people and the university itself was an opportunity that I knew I would never experience as a student but it did make me realize that I could be something bigger and better than I was aspiring to. My interest and motivation in school didn’t change as much as it should have but the possibilities of what could be became evident to me as I grew older. Zina Berman
I remeber it well... I was in the fourth grade and instead of writing a book report, I asked the teacher if I could act out the story. She agreed and my acting career began! Well, my love for acting I should say. Anyway, this made me want to read and perform the story line out to the class once a week for extra credit. It not only increased my reading skills and social interactions but, also increased my self esteem greatly because I was good at it. Susan Castleman
I have a few teachers that I remember from my school years. Some for good reasons and some for not so good reasons. But the one that brings a smile to my face every time I think of her is Mrs. Parrot, my 1st grade teacher at So. Hialeah Elementary. When I began school my parents enrolled me in a private school thinking it was the best idea. However, I completed kindergarten not knowing letter sounds, much less knowing to read. Fortunately, my parents withdrew me once they realized the inadequacies of the school and enrolled me at So. Hialeah. Ms. Parrot worked patiently and diligently with me to help me learn my letter sounds and eventually I learned to read. I still remember going to her house for tutoring. As an adult who loves to read and loves to teach young children to read, I can't imagine going through life not knowing how to read. I don't know if she is still around, but I do hope she knows how much I appreciate what she did for me and that I've never forgotten her!
My high school experiences were probably the first insight that provided some real thoughts about my interest, and abilities. There were required courses in the curriculum as a standard procedure, and then there were electives. The standard courses were mandates, and students did not have a choice in these selections, however the electives were more personalized. I feel confident in saying that my English Literature, Speech, and Drama teachers must have has the most vital impact on my academic, and personal growth. They guided me in the areas’ that I excelled in and provided recommendation to extend my abilities, by that I became a part of a Theatre Guild. He Guild exposed me to the arts, in many ways. I could use my writing skills in the extension of creating dramatic dialogue, or monologues. I could be a part of a production or direct one that I had written; I knew that my direction would be in the area of providing some leader or direction as a facilitator in the instructions process. Barbara Harris
As a child you can say that I was quit inquisitive. One day, around the age of 7, at my neighbor park, I can across a group of men playing the game of chess. I began to flying questions back and forth about the unique looking pieces on the game board. I can remember, Coach Smithy telling me, no more questions, meet me here tomorrow And Be Ready to Listen. I became a modest player and even joined my middle school chest team as the 1st Female Player to play for Filer Middle. I learned that listening to Coach Smithy and other played a key role to my success. Pamela Robinson
In middle school, I had this drama teacher, Mr. Ross, who would always give me opportunities to perform leading roles. He believed in me and encouraged me to continue acting and eventually start auditioning. Although Mr. Ross thought I would become an actress someday, my mother and step-father thought differently so they discouraged me from continuing with that idea and they decided I should apply to the HS of Fashion Industries (NYC)because of my skills in drawing and designing, so I applied and was accepted. At this HS, I met the most awesome teacher, Mrs. Nichols, who spoke to me one day when I was crying about the whole career change and she said, “whatever path you choose to take, whether it’s acting, designing or ‘even teaching others’, you will be successful because you show passion”. Teaching ELLs has been my passion for a long time and I continue to act. Mr. Ross didn’t know that I would someday have my own theatre…my classroom!
In middle school, I had this drama teacher, Mr. Ross, who would always give me opportunities to perform leading roles. He believed in me and encouraged me to continue acting and eventually start auditioning. Although Mr. Ross thought I would become an actress someday, my mother and step-father thought differently so they discouraged me from continuing with that idea and they decided I should apply to the HS of Fashion Industries (NYC)because of my skills in drawing and designing, so I applied and was accepted. At this HS, I met the most awesome teacher, Mrs. Nichols, who spoke to me one day when I was crying about the whole career change and she said, “whatever path you choose to take, whether it’s acting, designing or ‘even teaching others’, you will be successful because you show passion”. Teaching ELLs has been my passion for a long time and I continue to act. Mr. Ross didn’t know that I would someday have my own theatre…my classroom! Maria Santiago-Parreno
I remember when I was in middle school, science was not my strength. One of the key reasons was because throughout my elementary life I was only exposed to science and received no instruction. My teacher did not like science or science was not her strength. She always tells us how much she dislikes science herself. As a child who loves her teacher and care so much for her teacher, I was influence so much by her. I also dislike science because of her. This attitude continues until I met Ms. Thomas in Middle School. Ms. Thomas was a former medical student and due to her father illness and death was unable to complete the program. But, her passion for the subject was beyond my expectation. She was enthusiasm, passionate for science and refers to each student in the class as scientist. I was thrilled of her instruction and enjoy the lab sessions on a daily basis. She is an excellent teacher and knowledgeable of the content. From the time I met her and forward my interest for science grew tremendously. The benefits for me as a learner were her knowledge of the content, her ability to delivery explicit instruction and her passion for the subject as a whole.
My sixth grade teacher, Mr. Spencer influenced my decision to become a teacher today. From a young child, I was always interested in teaching. My dolls were my students; I used a chalk board and individual notebook paper for students work. I enjoyed playing for hours talking to myself and using my voice to represent the voices of my dolls (students). Mr. Spencer always taught in a manner that captivated the students’ attention. He was an artful teacher, always able to hook the students on the topic being presented at hand. Learning took place in the class on all levels. He was a fun and caring teacher. There were no differentiation of instruction; we all learned the same content at the same time. All subjects were taught in one class, by one teacher. Mr. Spencer cared about students as individuals and accepted the difficult task of trying to identify the interests students brought to the classroom with them. As a class, we never experienced being placed in learning groups or separated based on reading levels Mr. Spencer was passionate about a topic and shared the passion with his students. Similar interests are likely to emerge in many of the learners as well. The class loved learning, I loved learning and I love observing my students while they are learning. This teacher definitely influenced my decision to become a teacher. Audrey Bullock
As a young lady venturing into society, and not knowing what she wanted to do, I was notice by others. There were those/others who just knew what I should become before I did or ever realized, until someone tap into my interest, by the dearest person one could ever know. I give a lot of credit to one of the best teachers I know, in me becoming what I am today, a teacher. I have always did the best I can in what I did, and by me working with special needs students, open my eyes to a new beginning in my life. As a teacher working with special needs students, I observe good quality traits in many of my students. I constantly instill in my students to always do the best you can with what you have, and to never let anyone tell you what you are not able to do, otherwise! If you’re not able to “Reach the Stars, try Capturing the Moon”. As I stated in the beginning of my writing, it too was notice by someone else. I grew from the motivational talks, the inspiration, and the perseverance that was instilling in me to go back and become a teacher of this population of students. I was given a chance to do something that others felt I could do, and I know within my heart I do put in all that I can, and that is to teach others the best I know how. I benefit from all the talks that I receive, and I will never give up on my students. Carolyn Collins
Mrrissa and Jack, thank you for sharing your personal stories. I enjoy reading them it great to have caring teachers who have their student interest at heart.
When a student feels that the teacher encourages them to look into a topic that interests them then it helps students feel more eager to learn, and gives them a connection between school and their own desires to learn. Students can use the ideas that are already familiar to them to help them connect to new ideas that are less familiar. For teachers to create lifelong learners it always important to affirm student interests.
As a child, I constantly saw my mother teach. Her philosophy was making every learning experience fun and playful. She would crack jokes depending on the task and activity. She influenced me not only for pursuing a teaching degree but to instill her philosophy in my teachings.
Through out my years of education as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I had a teacher that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. Not everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves.
I had the unique experience of spending a summer abroad in Guanajuato, Mexico prior to the start of my senior year of high school. Upon my return, I began my AP Spanish class. Despite learning to speak Spanish somewhat fluently while in Mexico, I often felt intimidated in this class because I was one of only a few students who were not native Spanish speakers. I worried about my accent and whether or not I would accidently say the wrong thing. Noticing my reservation and knowing about my experience, my teacher tapped into my interest in Mexico in order to help bring my wall down. She asked me questions about my time there and showed an interest in my interest. When talking about something I felt so passionately about, I forgot about my insecurity in the language and let my guard down. I am so appreciative to this teacher because she refused to allow me to sit back in her class. She allowed me to become an active, engaged member of her classroom by recognizing my interests.
I came to this country during a time in which ESOL was not as widely used in schools. I felt lost many times. However, there was one teacher who would take the extra time after school to teach us the extra skills we needed in order to understand the material being taught during the day. She saw that we wanted to learn and tapped into that desire to help us succeed in school. She knew we were struggling and therefore encouraged us to work harder so that we could stay ahead of the game. We had to learn a new language plus the normal curriculum in order to graduate. however, she proved to us that it wasn't an impediment but rather just a small challenge in order to reach our goals. I can't take her enough for putting that extra time in order to help us move along.
A strategy that I really liked was: Design-A-Day Here students decide what to work on for a class period ,they specify goals, set time levels, and work toward their goals and assess their own progress. This strategy is useful when students have a particular interest.
Chap.9: Even though we are constantly bombarded with alot of time constraints/deadlines, I keep in mind to survey my students interests and of course they enumerate many. From this pool, I gradually wean them out to the top 3...and we then negotiate. I then incorporate them in their Learning Contract...which we both are responsible and committed to carry out and modify-(as need be)-as the school year progresses...this is where the differentiation interplays with their interests...Fig. 9.1..briefly demonstrates a key outline to keep in mind for D.I. Lesson Plng...;>}
As a teacher reflecting back on my student years I actually had a bad experience with differentiated instruction. I fell into a teachers class that thought she was differentiating students by placing them into seperate reading groups and putting down the students in the lower group. We were basically in the same group for the entire year and never reassesed. My negative experience actually helped me become a better differentiated instruction teacher. I understand that those students in the lower group have to continually be monitored and reinforced positively to succeed. If they constantly expect of you then obviously you will never try to be anything more.
I arrived to this country at the age of five in 1969 and I attended Auburndale Elementary in Miami, Florida. While in the fist grade, I remember spending most of my time standing in the back of the room facing the wall. I hated my first grade teacher so much I can't explain. She was verbally and physically abusive to me and other students who could not speak the language. I remember the "Gringos" on one side of the room and the "Refujees" on the other side of the room. I can honestly say, it was a "culture shock" for me and as a result of this, I was retained. So much for Differentiated Instruction, back in the day.
My 5th grade teacher at Howard Drive Elementary School Mr. Ballent was very influential in encouraging to me to tap into my talent of writing. He had an assignment of a personal journal that was between him and the students. Everyone felt like they had a personal connection to him. We would write to him, and he would write back to us. Everything was confidential. He would tell me that I would make an awesome journalist. He introduced me to the world of writing and entered me into the Dade County Youth Fair Exposition contest...in which I won first place. I went on to write for the Miami Herald as a freelance writer for the local section...(for a short period), and I also wrote for my college newspaper, and originally majored in journalism. I still have a love for writing, and I did the same assignment with my students...had them write in a journal to me, and I respond to them(when I taught elem.). The kids loved it, as I did at that age. I got to know the students and helped them to discover some of their talents, and build their self esteem.
My schooling years were quite conventional and I would say most of the time I was dissociated and disinterested. I was a very quiet child and consequently, very often "invisible". I particularly remember my second grade classroom because my teacher gave us "choices" to practice math activities. My sensory memory is of a little girl excited about being allowed to walk up to the front of the classroom and "owning" my learning. My interest was in the subtraction cards. Unfortunately, these type of activities were rare in my school. I also remember my excitement about learning cursive in fourth grade. I remember being very proud of my penmanship until my teacher had me trace her writing so I could learn the "right" way...
T. Junious As I reflect upon the times when an adult tapped in on my interest all I can really remember is how that show of interested motivated me to grow more, learn more, and to do more. I then felt as if what I was doing was worthy and beneficial to me as a person. It gave the courage to want to share my time and talent with others. I no longer wanted to hold it in. Honestly it felt darn good!!!! The benefits for me as a learner is that I was encouraged to learn more and push the envelope. I didnt just want to settle, i wanted more and more. As a person it boosted my self-esteem, my self confidence. That acknowledgement helped to boost my career and helped me to make very important decisions. I knew then that it was ok to think outside of the box, to be out side of the box. I knoew that it was ok to be my dramatic self, that I could truly help me and still be myself!! Thank you Ms. Debbie Lee I truly appreciate all of your words, wisdom, and time spent in helping to shape me into the person that I am today!!!!!
When I was in middle school, we started learning English as another language. It was a mandatory to learn English in China but a lot of students were not interested in learning and they were very slow and behind. As I was very interested in learning English, I was far advanced and finished my work much faster than most of the students. At the beginning, the teacher did not realize he needed to differentiate his teaching instructions until one day he found I was really bored and talked to other students and constantly disrupted him. He was so happy to see me so advanced in his class that he always gave me extra assignment or some interesting books to read after I finished my assignment way ahead of the group. He would also give me a list of extra challenge questions to answer in my spare time. Through his differentiated teaching instructions, I was able to engage myself during his class and he kept me busy in and out of classes. As a student, I was lucky to have a teacher like him to tailor my own need of learning English. As a person I was able to learn as much as I could and it was a great help in my learning experience. It fulfilled my fascination by other cultures and realized my dream of knowing America and become one of the American citizens. I am what I am today through all these learning experience. Thank you my English teacher back in China!
As I reflect back and think about a time when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests, I remember my middle school language arts teacher. I enjoyed my literature class in middle school and remember it fondly. That year I devoured so many works of literature: classics, contemporary works, biographies, and historical fiction. At the time, I didn’t realize that she had tapped and sparked an interest in reading. An interest that now as an adult I still cherish. I am a reading teacher and a media specialist. The benefits were immeasurable. By taking note and igniting my passion for reading, my middle school language arts teacher positively impacted my life. She used literature as a vehicle for my learning and from that moment, I became an avid reader. Reading of course lead to academic achievement, and paved the way to my career of choice.
My sophmore year in college, I took a social work course with a professor who was highly recommended by my peers. Well, this professor changed my life forever. Mr. R. Blake had been made aware that I may be studying abroad in a Pre Med class, but I was having some reservations about leaving my "Safe Haven" . I loved college life, but my parents were encouraging me to study abroad immediately rather than later. He waited until class was over, and ask me to have a conference with him. His words of wisdom were as follow:Think of what you have learned in theory while at the university, research your options include your dreams, then dare yourself to choose the path that will make you and only you most happy. And, so, here I am as an educator trying to spread the wisdom I learned from him. During my 20 year college reunion, I search for Mr. B, and before I can tell him how my life turned out he stated so how is it going with teaching. All I can do is hug him and thank him for pointing the way.And without any persuasiveness he allowed me to reach down my soul and make my own decision. That dare to follow my own intuition is what changed my life, and I thank him for his guidance. Although I may have rich now, I guess I earn my richness in many other ways.
There was one adult that always acknowledged my interest, my mother. When I showed the slightest interest in something, anything, she would provide an outlet, resources, time, and space for me to explore. This encouraged me to pursue many interests that still hold my attention to this day.
As a learner, following one’s desire to explore a topic or a way of doing a task creates an engaged mind and a thirst to learn more, but not just learn, but apply it to many other things. One of these interests is gardening. Although I do this for enjoyment, I have learned many scientific theories on living things; how earth and space interact to support life, why plants are important to the environment, how animals contribute to the biosphere, the impact plants have on people, and the significance of a garden’s aesthetics on social relationships.
Supporting the interests of others creates a learning environment that is rich with possibilities and full of the wonders of learning.
I recall my English teacher in high school coming to my soccer team’s practice and telling me that he had made a special recommendation to the principal that I be promoted to a special class. He was not trying to turn me on to literature. He knew that I was already a curious reader. He also knew that I tended to read more out of school material rather than the required material. So he was not trying to turn me on to literature or writing; he was trying to get me to reach for excellence. Now I think that teachers are much better at convincing us to reach for excellence in subjects for which we have already demonstrated an interest. This is not really Differentiated Instruction. I think it simply something that teachers have always done. I am still looking for the teacher who can turn me on to Physics, Calculus, or even Biology. The examples we see in Chapter 9, like all the other examples, are in what we can call the soft subjects. (Not that I believe they are soft. Perhaps schools officials do. I think reading about the Civil War or Romantic poems can be as challenging as reading about Physics. But that’s a topic for another time.) In the chapter we hear about music, literature, history, which tend to be the subjects that lend themselves to DI strategies. Makes sense to me. However, should we apply DI to kids in Vocational courses? Do we want mechanics who have to find a way to get interested in certain types of engines. Cosmetologists who have to find their way into handling their clients’ hair or skin? I would really like to hear how we can turn the undisciplined student on to the hard subjects where measurements are not subjective but maddeningly objective. The teachers in these areas care about right answers, and right answers do exist. I would love to see the day when all literature tests have an acceptable margin for subjectivity. Any subject in which interpretation, subjective interpretation, is necessary is a subject that is suitable for DI. The hard sciences? Well…. I am not sure.
Though many people have impressed and helped me in my school time, I have to be honest and highlight two names, Lolita and Guillermo. Indeed, I am making reference two my high school literature teachers. Under their umbrellas and, of course, some years ago, I started listening and using words like, metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, etc. I started facing problems when dealing with author’s purpose, author’s message, personal point of view, and had wonderful instruction sessions about the life of William Shakespeare, Jose Marti, Ernest Hemingway, and of course other writers whose have impressed readers minds. Of course, during these wonderful years of luxurious lexicon, unusual words for me, short stories, fiction, fables, poetry and the likes, were also the time that some of my teachers tapped into my interests, made me reflect about future, and then put all tools in my hands to start thinking about being a teacher. And here I am, playing with my memories like Air Supply’s song, and been involved in this ropes since 1980 when I graduated as a teacher of English As a Foreign Language. By Mr. Flores De La Paz, Hector L.
My father always acknowledge my interests. Since I was a child he instilled in me the interest on education and spoke about how wonderful it was to be an educator.As a CPA, he made time to teach in a university.in the evenings. After I became a teacher I realized that everything he said was true. I wanted to go for my Master because I felt my brain was missing something. Later I decided to go for a second Masters degree in education and he was there cheering me on. I don't know where I would be if it wasn't for him.
The time in my life that I acknowledge an interest of pursue a teaching career occurred eight years ago. I was working in the field of real estate as a registration broker while there I was responsible for training newly hire real estate broker on data implication. The excitement I witnessed from observing the adults learning how to manage the system was gratifying. I enjoyed the feeling of being in control and empowering adults with information that was going to make their experience less frustrated. As I reflect on that time of my life, the change of careers was positive and I embraced the challenges without regrets.
I was fortunate enough that my parents not only supported all my endeavors but also encourage me to achieve them. I have always been a dreamer and stuck too long to loosing causes, but throughout it all, I believe my parents were the only ones who offered the unconditional support I needed. Only one professor –don’t remember her name- on my creative writing class, left an impression on me. She let me write, without correcting my grammar or style, anything I wanted. I was free to express all my ideas and she always praised me on anything I wrote. I was inspired and enjoyed every class. Looking back I see how focusing on the most important objective –creative process- maximized my efforts. Francisco Castro
There was a librian (media specialist) who took a special interest in me during my last four years in elementary school. Mrs Jenkins allowed me to assist her in the library checking books in and out as students selected their books. Mrs. Jenkins held contests in shich students created book jackets or mibiles of favorite books. I was not must of an artist, but her encouragment spurred me to try my hand at design and creativity. Her encouragement to read and the opportuntity to spend extended time in the media center has lead me to be a life long reader. It may be that I talked way too much in the classroom and the teachers needed a break, now that I reflect back, but it really didn't matter to me. I was afforded the opportunity to see how the library is organized, the "old" card catalog organization system and become familiar with the amazing variety of books available to me. As a consequence of my "froendship" with Mrs. Jenkins, I developed a life long love relationship with reading and with books.
Chapter 9 Reflection: Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? Ms.Scott, my 4th grade teacher at Kensington Park Elementary in Miami Florida, inspired me to excel in school. She nurtured me and inspired me to do my best. She worked on my self confidence and ability to get out of my comfort zone. Ms. Scott paid attention to my needs and ability in order to grow academically and emotionally.
Besides my dad I would have to say that Mrs. Gold, my sixth grade teacher at Citrus Grove Elementary School was the other person that had the biggest impact in my life. She allowed us to research, type, and report on anything of interest to us. I was given the opportunity to satisfy my thirst for knowledge.
I have always liked learning even though I was not great in school during my elementary and middle school year. One of the first people I remember picking my interest was my 10th grade English teacher. Even though I was always shy, this teacher was entertaining. He would have us act out funny sounding spelling words, create movie posters for books we were reading, create videos. The books he had us read though a part of the curriculum where read in a way that was captivating. This was the first teacher that allowed me to finally discover my love for school and better my vocabulary.
Chapter 9 I have benefited from professors/adults' knowledge and exposure to topics on which I have an interest or I am passionate about. Having the adult connecting the dots between what I like/prefer to the learning process, have always been the main factor to motivate me to do more and better versus doing what is required and average performance. Just the fact that the professor/adult pays attention to what I am interested is a buster to my self-esteem, as well as a challenge to get better at explaining and discussing with other people my ideas and achievements
A time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests, was my 9th grade English Teacher, Mrs. Lunsford. I've always been pretty good in school in regards to academics. She was very witty, and we had lots of fun in her class. Each day, I looked forward to going to her class. One day, we had a discussion on careers and we had to complete a survey that helped us choose what type of career we wanted. I love technology, so I figured a career in computer and Information systems was a fit for me. Mrs. Lunsford saw something in me that I didn’t see. She asked if I ever thought about being a teacher. Initially, I said no. She asked me to join the club, FEA (Future Educators of America). It was in that club, that I found a love and passion for teaching. It was my teacher’s passion, and love for teaching that made an impact on my life. Long story short, I was a computer programmer for 3 years, but I decided to make a career change because I was feeling unfulfilled. I thought back to Mrs. Lunsford and the way she tapped into my interests and I became a teacher.
I have been very fortunate to have had wonderful teachers. My modern dance teacher at Miami Senior High was very motivating to me. But the one teacher that had the biggest impact in my life was my Mother. She was my first grade teacher, and she treated me harder than any other of the students in the class. In her classroom I was a student not a daughter. When we came from Cuba in 1966, I remenber how difficult it was with learning to speak English, she would sit with me at night after a long day at work for her and she would help me with my homework with the English that she knew from Cuba. Her lessons to me was to never give up and to always do my best at everything. She taught me to be a good caring person and to always be good to other but she taught me to be strong and to never be afraid, to always face my fears, to help others as much as I could. I am the person that I am because of my mother. I followed her footsteps and became a teracher just like she was and my grandmother. I lost her 5 year ago, but she is with me always.
I am who I am today because of what I have learned from my experiences. I guess I would not change anything because I have grown to except all my faults and mistakes as part of my journey thru life. I have learned and grown from it all. And now I'm headed down a new path. Just like a river is never the same I also have changed with time. I had my heart badly broken. I was climbing out of depths of despair when I realized that everyone you love has the capacity to make you a better person if you have the maturity to let it happen. For instance, the teacher who taught me one thing that I am still uses it. One day I was acting in school’s play, I fall when I realized that I was on the floor my teacher Ofelia was next to me giving me confidence and telling that it was ok, that everybody made mistake and the most important thing was to get up and learned about our mistakes. In some ways those words made me felt that nobody is perfect. You just have to take a big breath and let the bad stuff go, and let the good stuff start. Easier said than done, I know, but it's amazing what can happen and how much you could learn from your experiences. From that day any mistake that I could make I would go back and fix it. This is what I learned from it!!!!!!
I think back to Middle School when my music teacher was able to see that not only did I love to sing, but I loved to lead! Through my experience with Conductor Bailey (you gotta remember the names of the good ones!) I was able to see that despite my prone to awkwardness I too could influence people around me! He gave me opportunities to be a conductor, and while I have done little in the field of music, I've been a leader ever since! Thank you Mr. Bailey.
I had always been a shy and very quiet person. I love to express myself on paper and dance when I am alone. My seventh grade Language Arts teacher encouraged me to enter my poetry in a contest. I entered and won third place; a trip to a theme park in Delray Beach, Fl.(no longer exist). I looked forward to entering more contests and winning prizes to places or things I nor my family could otherwise afford. I continued to write poems and then skits/plays but kept them to myself. Once I got high school still shy and extremely quiet. I would get marked absent because the teacher did not hear me when I answered"Present". My high school language arts teacher met with myself and a counselor and decided to place me in drama classes to get me to open up. I really enjoyed this. I could be whomever I wanted, say whatever I wanted, and move however I wanted move without anyone really judging me. Finally,I realized I had all this creativity bottled up inside of me. FREEEEEEEE !!!!!!!! I continued to write, act, sing and dance. I shared my talents with my church on special occasions. I wrote Christmas, Easter, and inspirational drama for our youth dept. I find peace when I write, sing and dance. I joyfully share this passion with my students. I sing, act and write skits for them to role play. I encourage them to find the interest they have trapped/blocked and go for it.
I remember as far back as my elementary years, this particular teacher asked me many times to read aloud. I loved it yet, I had not realized that she picked me because I was a top reader in my class. One time after I had finished reading in front of the class, she hugged me and gave me a little present. Then, I felt extremely proud of myself. That day meant a lot for me.
Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person?
I'll never forget Mr. Ike, my 9th grade English teacher. I had fallen asleep during our entrance test in 8th grade. I ended up being placed in a remedial class for English. Mr. Ike immediately noticed that I was placed in the wrong level and I was reading and writing far beyond the student in his remedial class. He kept me in that class that year but worked with me on differentiated projects and had me help other students in the class. This is where I acquired my love of learning and teaching. That year, Mr. Ike and I read Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman while the rest of the class read something at their level. At the end of the year, Mr. Ike told me he was recommending me for 10th grade English Honors. As a learner, this display of trust and confidence in me allowed me to go on to graduate 24th in a class of thousands. It also allowed me to go onto colleges like Cornell University, Rutgers University and UM. I wouldn't be who I am today without Mr. Ike believing in me and giving me a second chance. I always tell my students this story and tell them that they can leave their past at the door and start fresh in my class.
As a little girl, I was very timid and failed to participate in class; it was so extreme that my kindergarten teacher met with my mother and inquired as to my ability to speak the English language. To my kindergarten teacher, the ability to voice one’s opinions seemed to correlate with IQ. My mother informed me of my teacher’s concerns, and in order to prove my teacher wrong; I purposefully began to participate— this was indeed a chore for me, which did not come easily, but did spark the purpose, drive and motivation in me to succeed. “Interest are, in a way, windows on the world.” A developed interest in one area is almost inevitably a route to learning about many other things” including oneself. “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” ~Henry Brooks Adams
Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? As a young girl in elementary school, I always had an interest in helping others. I was the one to help the students who had gotten hurt or needed an extra boost. I never really thought twice before carrying books for others. One day, my fifth grade teacher, Ms. Andreacci, decided that she wanted me to be more than a helper. She asked me to become a student ambassador for our school. Thinking I was helping her, I accepted the challenge. Little did I know that she was teaching me leadership skills. She wanted me to be in the limelight not behind the scenes. She arranged it where I would guide tours of dignitaries who were visiting our school. She taught me to speak in front of groups and handle situations with poise. To this day, I feel that her belief in me allowed me to become who I am and to face life head on. She taught me to always have high expectations give everything my all. She truly made a difference in my life and I hope that I am doing the same for my students.
It is known that iron sharpens iron, this is also true for us as humans. I could remember vividly when one of my colleague asked me to host his engagement party as his MC at a local restaurant in Key Biscayne. I gave him all type of excuses so that he could release me from that social obligation , but he insisted that I was the only qualified individual who knew him well enough to speak on his behalf. Therefore I was obligated to rescue him..Apparently the audience and himself were satisfied of my performance and few days later, I was asked again to MC at a party that I knew no one. What did I learn from that experience? We are more capable to do things that feel we could not do. It is only a matter of a single push that is needed! t
I remember as a second grader our teacher Mrs. Martha would always make everything a competition to try us to learn the time tables, she saw that I had a very good memory for number and she always encourage me from that time on I always liked math found a way to learn more about it, and now teach math and science. I thank her for her encouragement.
My junior year of high school I was chosen by my P.E. instructor to be one of 4 team leaders for a fitness challenge. We chose our teams and team leads were responsible for delegating responsibilities and assigning fitness tasks. I was given the opportunity to act as a leader for one of the first times in my life. I learned to listen and value the judgment of others even when their opinions were different then my own. I even made key decisions and changes based on their advice. I learned to delegate responsibilities to others. I learned the value and consequence of the choices I would make and their impact on others.
We ended up winning the fitness challenge and I was asked to make a speech on behalf of my team. I thanked everyone for their participation. I thanked and congratulated the efforts of everyone. I learned that in recognizing others you earn everyone's respect. I then turned my attention to my team and thanked them for their efforts and all that they had taught me. I learned that giving a speech on the spot is best spoken from the heart and I learned that conducting yourself with honor is the only way to win.
Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? I remember one time I was asked by the children's pastor to create an edible hands on activity for the week long summer program for the participants ages six through 10. She said she knows that I am very creative and like to make, build and draw things. I was flattered because my activity will not only be used at that church campus but at the other eight church campuses throughout the nation. The theme of the summer camp was adventure on five islands over five days. The activity was to create an edible project within 10 minutes with only five ingredients. I was assigned three assistants that would be in the classrooms to disseminate the information to the participants. In addition, I had to demonstrate the activity to the other campuses via SKYPE. Oh goodness! The stress was on. I was given a budget and a deadline. We, the three assistants and I, came up with an edible island made of Rice Krispies treat, frosting, Tootsie Rolls, green Fruit Roll-Ups, and Teddy Grahams. It was simple and a lot of fun. This assignment taught me to better communicate, learn to be open to critique and rely on the talents of others as well. Those were areas that I had problems with before. We received rave reviews from the other church campuses, the parents and the kids.
Well a time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests was my cousin a few years ago when I wasn't sure if teaching was the right choice for me to take, because to be honest when I first substituted in a class and I saw how different it was from my native country I got afraid, but thanks to her I fought my fears and that's why I am now proud of myself to be an educator and feel comfortable with what I am doing which is teaching.
I already shared this in class, but I will share this experience again. I went to a private school from K - 3rd grade that did a horrible job at teaching me anything. My parents moved me into a public school in 4th grade, and I was basically at a kindergarten reading level. So from grades 4 to 7, I was playing catch up, and was a struggling reader. One day in 7th grade, I was in the library, and the librarian had a bunch of books spread out. I choose one with a really weird, almost disturbing picture on the cover. It was by Stephen King, and it was called "The Drawing of the Three". I started reading this book, and it was full of fantastical creatures, horrific situations, and some vulgar language. I checked the book out from the library, took it home, and read it all in one weekend. Before that, it would take me months to finish a book. My parents were in shock. This experience helped me take what I learned from reading something I was greatly interested in, and helped me apply it to other readings I had to do that school year. All of the sudden my grades went from C's and D's to A's and B's, and not just in my Language Arts class. This whole experience changed the way I read, the way I learned, literally changed my life.
This person was my step-mother, who just happened to be a 3rd grade teacher in Alexandria, Va. I met her when I was 13 I liked going to her class to help out with her students. This was the time when Pet-Rocks were in style, so I took the kids outside to find and create their own Pet Rocks. The kids were happy to get outside - and some happy they could just find rocks and paint. I was happy to help them realize they didn't need to spend any $ on a rock. From then, on she would always tell me to consider becoming a teacher. At that time, I really didn't know what I wanted to do, so I didn't pay too much attention. I think she believed in me more than I believed in myself, but I have many traits that remind me of her and the time we had together. These are good traits that I feel I take into the classroom with me each day. Thank you Elizabeth Ellison Nellessen!
There was this very knowledge high school math teacher that tapped into my interests. There were so many benefits that I got from that person. Besides gaining a lot of knowledge on the Math subject, I also learned to understand how to plan my time focussing on my interests, and to set and accomplish my goals. Long after I finished high school, I realized how important the role of that teacher was. I realized how much I benefited from his teaching when I finally decided to enroll in the School of Architecture in my home town. All my accomplishments on all the subjects related to math together with the ability to manage my time during, between, after and before classes in order to achieve my goal to become and architect I own to my teacher, Martin Landaeta. He passed away many years ago.
chapter 8: I was lucky that I had very good teachers who always encouraged me as well as my parents to success in my personal and professional life. It helped me to always be positive and push my self to reach all my goals. That is why I do the same with my students. I always talk to them and find a way to know their interests so they can benefit as student and as a person and success in their present and future life. Students interests is very important in a differentiated class to have the student motivated and on task. The problem is that not all students in a class have the same interests and is there when the teachers play their most important role to find a way to motivate them and cultivate their interests so we can push them towards success in their studies.
A time in my life when an adult tapped into my interests and encouraged me was my 5th Grade Catholic teacher . She was strict by yet kind and generated interests in all topics. She set time aside for students to share their history and background interests such as Spanish . She introduced a world of ideas and motivated us to by making all lessons relevant and memorable. In today's world where we all live at a high pace, it's important to create an inviting classroom environment where students can propose ideas for tasks and projects. By encouraging interests ,students see how cross connections are all relevant. In this way, there will be less stress on the teacher and the class. Teachers need to nurture and trust their interests. A rigid lesson will backfire. The greatest gift a teacher can give is chances to explore and an interested ear.
Ms. Medina my science teacher development me interest in science, I feel curiosity about animals habitats of varied animals such as bears, tigers, frogs etc. I help my students to develop this interest for sciences too. I read with them short stories, novels, poetry, and action comics about animals then together discussion about story. They like and enjoy.
There is no one particular time that comes to me at this moment, but I know that when interest in anything occurs, you can usually link or connect it to something else of interest that already exists. It's amazing to me that I have not looked at my instruction (at least I don't think so) from this perspective before. The benefits of finding the student's interest in something other than what my lesson is about and connecting it to learning the material at hand is necessary in today's classroom. Education (learning) is all about making the connections and this works for not only children, but adults as well. For example, people who obtain master degrees are usually extending what they already know to what they want to know more about. Now that my brain is starting to function at 10:30 p.m. I'm thinking of my interest as a teacher- and how I desire to take my students to the next level. I'm taking these endorsement courses as an instrument to accomplish that goal, and my interests have been tapped and deepened in every course I've taken. The way that I have benefited in this search for knowledge and understanding is that I get it it now. It's ALL ABOUT CONNECTIONS! Knowing my students interests takes me deeper into who they are as people, and how to make learning matter from their own perspective will help me to reach them as learners. This for me is a paradigm shift!!. I know that my classroom will continue to evolve as a result of my interests being connected to what I need to learn. Light has finally come.
I am an active and visual learner. I love to move, dance, and sing. Over the years, I have had teachers use different strategies and activities to get the students moving with the purpose of learning. My 1st grade teacher was the most effective and efficient at this technique. Even though I was young, how she taught has always stuck with me. As young students we were having so much fun during the activity we didn't even notice we were learning. She would find a way to make our learning experience a game, song, or dance. It was purposeful play as I like to call it. I have tweeked and modified this strategy over the years with the wide range of learning styles, levels and interests I have encountered. The retention has shown to be high when the students encounter the information or content in a variety of ways. Also, if the students can teach the content to another peer or person, the level of understanding is higher than just being able to perform the task. This strategy was seen in my 1st grade class, which is engraved in my head, and in my classroom over the years.
A time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interest was when I was in six grade. I did not like math, i spend long hours studying and it was just difficult for me to understand. Until, I went to middle school and met the most amazing teacher. She made math fun for everyone. At some point she realized that I liked music and what she did was create songs about math strategies and skills that will stick. I had this teacher for six and seventh grade. Since that moment on, I became interested in Math and thanks to her I did well in high school. As a teacher, I like to find my students interest, this motivates them and sparks their interest in the subject matter.
My 3rd grade teacher was the one that acknowledged and tapped into my interests. From the time I could walk my parents put me in dance lessons, and I can vividly remember a time when dancing was my life (age 4 - age 21). This particular teacher noticed little things about me that made me stand out from my peers (my posture, how I'd walk on my tippy-toes, or how I'd twirl up to her desk and through the halls as opposed to simply walking). She often provided opportunities for me to perform for my peers and for special presentations. She even gave me the license to go before my classmates (as an expert) to share my art with them after having read specific dance related articles or stories. As a learner, I felt validated. I felt that we had something in common - my interest in dance and her interest in my interest in dance. I felt connected to her in a way that I had never felt with any other teacher before, and I absolutely loved learning with her. She helped me to feel more confident not only as a person but as a reader. The confidence I often exuded while I was performing began to spill over into my academics. She reached me on a level no other teacher ever had. She cared about what I cared about!
Ana M. Two important events occurred in my life when an adult ignited into my interests. One was sitting in my father’s lap (8 brothers and sisters) while he taught us the ABCs was definitely a time when I acquired/showed an innate interest and love for books, school and learning. The other event was when I was in high school and a teacher volunteered me to teach illiterate adults reading and shorthand (1970). She certainly did not know that by this experience she was helping me choose my loving profession. I am glad since many people spend so much time of their life deciding it. Personally, I do not want to do anything else in my life but teaching. Even though, it is a low salary profession, I love the three months of vacations and afternoon time to spend with my love ones and the respect and admiration of my students. What a bliss!!!
This happened most recently when my assistant principal had an extended conversation with me after my last yearly evaluation and she was sharing with me the things that she had noticed that stood out in her mind and what she shared with me that really made me feel appreciated.I had been teaching for about 8 years and teaching was a big career change for me and I was beginning to have doubts about my abilities and seriously considering looking for other opportunities, but that conversation reignited my my passion for teaching. I really needed an honest opinion from an objective person.
When I was young, I loved the teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I would watch the cartoon all the time and talk about it with my cousin. One day my dad decided that he was going to show me the “real” Ninja Turtles. He asked me which one was my favorite one. I responded Michelangelo. He took out a book with the name written in a big nice classical font across the top with a picture of a white man with a beard. I looked at him confused. He said this is the real Michelangelo. He then proceeded to tell me how the turtles that I love so dearly are named after Renaissance artist and they are each every famous for things. For the next couple of weeks, he introduced me to each of these artists and what they did. As a learner, he found something that I loved and turned it into an avenue to get me to be interested in the artist. From that moment on, I remember loving art and architecture. As a person, I am very cultured, in the sense that I enjoy going to museums, learning about different artist, traveling, etc. I do not know if I can attribute all of that to this but it was definitely a starting point to it.
I was an awful math student. I loathed math, especially in high school. My Geometry teacher Ms. Shelia Lewis realized that I never participated. She took the time after class to ask me why I never participate; I explained to her my anxiety of math. From that moment on, every class session was an adventure in the world of Geometry. I was learning without the anxiety because Ms. Lewis made it fun. We worked in groups and teams to complete assignments; she removed the microscope I thought I was under. As a learner and a person I was able to benefit from her teaching style as well as her personality. So today, I have implemented the Shelia Lewis approach as a educator.
I was an awful math student. I loathed math, especially in high school. My Geometry teacher Ms. Shelia Lewis realized that I never participated. She took the time after class to ask me why I never participate; I explained to her my anxiety of math. From that moment on, every class session was an adventure in the world of Geometry. I was learning without the anxiety because Ms. Lewis made it fun. We worked in groups and teams to complete assignments; she removed the microscope I thought I was under. As a learner and a person I was able to benefit from her teaching style as well as her personality. So today, I have implemented the Shelia Lewis approach as a educator.
Mrs. Howard, my 2nd grade teacher was this person. She is the reason and the guide for my teaching and work with teachers today. She made learning completely hands-on and incorporated music into everything, which I love. We even had our own shows on stage for our parents b/c she invested so much time in this application of our learning. We wrote all the time in her class, working through the complete writing process. We were able to take the overall writing topic and match it to what we wanted to write about. I didn't necessarily love writing, but I was good at it, so I didn't mind working with her b/c I knew she saw us as individuals and loved us.
When I was five year old, my mother sent me to the corner store to buy something. The seller gave me the wrong change. I quickly exclaimed to him that 50 cents were missing. He was impressed by my precise and devoted explanation of how the change was not correct. He walked me home and explained the entire conversation to my mother. My mother’s aunt was there and took this event to the next level. For more than a month, this had been the on- going conversation to the rest of the families and friends. Even though I did not excel in math while I was in school. I still stayed confident that it was not a challenged for me. I always reminded myself that I could do mathematics.
I’m fairly new in my current assignment. The school’s population is predominantly Haitians or Haitian descent students. Most of my students are from families that value education. They always bring their homework and thrive to do their best in school. I have a few incidents where students did not bring their homework to class or were off tasks. All I had to do, was to mention that I would call their parents or lower their conduct grades to have order return to normal. My girls are very quiet and submissive. I have to call on them in order to participate. The boys are aggressive and arrogant. They talk out of turn and don’t work in collaboration with their peers even if the assignment calls for it. They think they are self-sufficient and barely accept help from their classmates.
I was in tenth grade when my principal acknowledged me about my potential in education. That principal was also teaching eleven and twelve graders and each time one of his students could not solve a math problem or answer a history question, he called on me to give the answers and after giving those answers he made his students understand why I was chosen to give the responses. Since that time, I noticed how important it is for someone to concentrate on education. As of today, I can say that principal is still in my memory as the one that tapped me other than my mother on the shoulders and encouraged me to become what I am today. Thanks to Mr.Augustin, all my educational skills enable me to assist my own children and my students.
Some years ago I had to return to live in the USA after I had been away for 16 years. I did not want to go back to my old career and a close friend of mine suggested that I considered the educational field. Prior to that I never contemplated becoming a teacher; It was never a consideration. Although I had many apprehensions, I realized that this friend saw something in me that would benefit young children and followed her advise. Now I am a teacher and it is the most rewarding work I have ever done. I am constantly learning from my students and they keep life interesting and full of challenges.
Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interest. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? A time when an adult acknowledge my interest was in the 12th grade, I had an interest in collecting coins at the time. My teacher also was a coin collector she showed me her collection of coins. I was able to benefit from her acknowledging my interest as a coin collector because she taught me how to look up a coin value. This was helpful when it came time for me to trade coins with other collectors because now I have a face value of the coin.
As a learner, I recall my eighth and ninth grade English teacher giving me the opportunity to read and write about topic that were of interest to me. I was very fortunate to have her for two years, I felt so lucky. She had a very interesting background herself and she shared her experiences with us. In turn she allowed us the opportunities to share our own experiences through our writing assignments. She taught us how to relate what we read to our own lives. This made all the difference in the world to me. I had always felt inadequate in reading and writing, and her approach to teaching really made a difference for me. At last, I felt like I can do something right in my English class and felt good about it. I went on to be recommended for college bound and honors classes in high school.
After my parents, Nilda Gonzalez was an elementary school teacher whose influence is still present in my life as an adult. She recently passed away , but I feel blessed to have the chance to know her as one of the most powerful teachers since I was a little girl. She taught me the importance of reading, how essential it could become if you use it wisely. She gave me a book, which is nowadays my favorite one " La Edad de Oro", written by a Cuban national poet, Jose Marti. The book ( which at the beginning was a weekly magazine for children in 1989) had such fascinating stories, poems, and essays meant for children and adults. Each section had not only an entertaining story but a powerful message on what the human values were. Every day I read orally a different story and I became an excellent oral reader because she told me by her passionate modeling how to use intonation, pronunciation, and make the reading meaningful. Nilda created an open invitation for my interests giving me the opportunity to choose which books I was more interested in and bring them to class , so I could read them to my classmates and share what were their messages. I was so engaged bringing children stories books to class that I started reading them more enthusiastically using the same techniques she used to grab students' attention. Eventually, I became the official oral reader in our school's matutinos every Friday. Nowadays I still love to read orally in front of big audiences without any stage fright at all!
Ch 9. I was a struggling reader due to the language. My parents were immigrants that came from Cuba in the 80’s and where I had a tutor that helped me learn how to read. Thanks to Mrs. Ramirez I learned to read and she made me understand the importance of reading. She would tutor me and my friend Janet every Tuesday afternoon. I struggled where eventually I was able to read a book, letter and later even correspondence for my parents. My parents always pushed me to be better and always instilled in us that education was the key to a better life and to strive to be the best that we can be as human beings. To this day I’m honest I do not have a Love for reading but I know the importance and impact it has in our lives and as a result I’m instilling this love to my own children personally and professionally.
ch. 9 - As I look back today in my past, I can say I was not one of the best students during my primary years. I guess thats why am so hard on my kids now. Looking back as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I look back at my teachers in Shenadoah Elemenary and remember that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. And I tell my own kids at home and at school, nothing in life is easy we need to work for it and we are going to find obstacles in our way but we just learning how to deal with them. Everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves. hrough out my years of education as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I had a teacher that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. Not everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves. Vivian Marzall
I can remember three of my teachers that really took the time to make learning fun for me. Mr. Deciucies was my middle school Language Arts teacher, Mr. Suchowski my 9th grade English teacher, and Ms. Grice my 12th grade English teacher. These individuals made my learning years fun and challenging. I was very active in my high school, but some of the things my teachers helped me with was joining the FEA club, receiving an internship at North Shore Hospital, and given a job at a bank, because they took an interest in me. These guys were amazing teachers that really enjoyed what they did. I certainly admire them and I strive to be an inspiration to my students. Elda
My teacher of Philosophy make a great impact in my life.My music teacher made me taste a different flavor of the music and I really enjoy while playing and listening.Mi Calculus Teacher open my brain to a more complex view of the world of numbers and their connection with real life.Most importantly,they gave me a legacy to use as an educator to give my best to the students not only as a teacher,as a role model for them.
I can distinctly remember my fifth grade teacher tapping into my desire to write long elaborate stories and read royal fiction books. As a result of the time she invested in developing my love for reading and writing, I have been able to instill that love and passion in many of my own students. My fifth grade teacher never let me settle for mediocrity. She always forced me to work at my highest potential and I knew that her love for me was genuine. Now that I am a teacher, I know this is my opportunity to help my students tap into their interests and make them work at their highest potential.
While growing up, I was blessed to have a mother that was a teacher. She motivated me to read and write before I began Pre-K. I was read to everyday, I was taken to bookstores and libraries to pick out books that were of interest to me because I did not was to read the same books that my brother was reading. Both of my parents always wanted me to try my best and I have memories of the both of them sitting with me at the dining room table to help me with homework. Even if I didn't need the help, they would still sit by my side as I worked. Once I was old enough to join the gifted program at my elementary school, I had the same teacher for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. She really helped me further my education. She would provide inquiry based projects on topics that we enjoyed and she would let us create stories about anything we wanted. As a learner, I was challenged on a daily basis and not only did I push myself, but I had great people pushing me. When I am in the classroom, I try to be that advocate for my students and push them because I know they can do it, they just need to want it.
As a teacher, I understand to get the interest of every student it is really hard work. Currently, with technology such as: computers, I-pad, I-phone etc. students manifest their indifference during reading time. However, it is time to change our mind and to involve them. For example: with a coolest song, poetry, rapping, acting out, a simple video and a game. In addition, we also have to pay attention to their current tendencies, culture and interests. Rather, their distraction we can focus in something positive like a name of movie, place to travel or to go. In this way they can benefit as a learners. I had an amazing experience with the projects. They love to participate and be creative when you let them to innovate on their own boat as a captain. They discovered traditions, cultures, religions, places to go, how to dress up, and many interesting things that you can ever imagine. For Hispanic heritage, one of my students created a boy with his dad face as an Argentine. It was so hilarious and every one enjoy meanwhile he explained his project. Maria Gonzalez
From 1st-12th grade, I attended traditional Catholic schools where teachers mostly taught what was interesting to THEM! Try as I might, I can’t really think of any adult (besides my parents) who acknowledged or tapped into any of my interests, so I asked my daughter and I’m relieved she has had a different experience. Her fourth grade teacher introduced her to Odyssey of the Mind, which is an international program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. Her teacher invited her to be on a team that learned to apply their creativity to solve problems that ranged from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. She learned about science and literature in such a creative increased her enthusiasm for learning about complex topics. Over the course of several years, she and her team competed at the local and state level. Because of her teacher’s confidence in her and the exposure she got from meeting and competing against her peers from across the state, I can see how her confidence blossomed and her interest in science and art was supported. I’m thankful this one experience has left a positive, lasting impression on her.
As an adult looking back into my childhood I can remember one teacher that stood out from the rest. My third grade teacher Ms. Gonzalez will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will never forget the way she would try to motivate us and try to get us to fall in love with reading. She would bring in books that would tap right into our interest. As a child I really never enjoyed reading. I remember one day Ms. Gonzalez asking me to go choose a book that interested me in our classroom library. I came back with a chapter book, which we both knew I wouldn't be able to read because it was way above my reading level. That day I remember she grabbed the book out of my hand and instead of telling me I wouldn't be able to read it, she announced to the class that she would be reading a new chapter book to us. She then continued to read a chapter a day until we completed the novel. It was not until I became an adult that I realized that I owe my love for reading to Ms. Gonzalez. She believed in me and gave me the confidence I needed to one day read my own chapter book. She has forever impacted my life.
In high school I was fortunate to have had a teacher in History. Mr. Kramer gave us the liberty to choose the actives and projects that we wanted to do. I remember I picked a project that was about the Vietnam War because I found the era so interesting with the War, and the counter culture that was going on. I wrote a paper on it and along with a slide show presentation. Its was something I will never forget and I really got an insight into that time in American history that was pivotal, acrimonious, dividing and in many ways so important that if affected the nation as a whole and changed the course of history. I benefited from this instruction because I was able to implement the course requirements and still pursue topics that really interested me. as i learner i passed the class with an A, as a person I grew in empathy in the sorts of issues many Americans were going through at the time.
Mr. James Sechrist, my high school Algebra teacher was the person who acknowledged me about my future success. As a freshman in high school, I was afraid of tackling math especially Algebra. I even had my dad speak with Mr. Sechrist to see if I could change classes. His response was "No". He made Algebra fun. We worked in groups to complete assignments. He would show me step by step on how to solve a problem. He would also take time from his planning to help me understand the concept in Math. As a learner and a person, I learned to never give up and always be motivated to learn new things.
My teacher of Philosophy, Non Irma, in the Immaculate Catholic High School in Ecuador, encouraged me to do co-teaching with her when I was a Senior in High School. That gave confident and help me to decide to be teacher, and apply the interaction between teachers and students. I believe this is very important to increase high order thinking in the students, and let them think out of the box, and not just follow materials from texts. In other words, apply what it is going to be used in real life.
It was the beginning of my freshman English class, the mid-term project entailed writing a research paper. The outline or format for the research was the same for all of the students, but we had an opportunity to choose a topic within a list of topics designated by the teacher. My parents, brother and I attended the Felicity United Methodist Church in New Orleans Louisiana and I wanted to compile research about the origin of the Methodist church. My friends suggested that I choose a topic within the stablished guidelines. My English teacher was a very special individual; because English was not my native language, she reached out to me for added clarification of assignments. When I spoke to her about my wishes, she made the accommodations that allowed me to choose my topic of interest. This was my first term paper and I spend most of my time compiling information, speaking with and interviewing pastors as well as visiting many Methodist churches in New Orleans. Motivation was one of the factors that propelled me to work hard on my project. I earned and received an A+ on the term paper because I was allowed and encouraged to pursue my interest.
There are many teachers that I have been blessed to know. However, the one teacher who stands out in my mind is my English Literature teacher from my final two years at secondary school in Barbados. Mrs. Toppin was an energetic woman, who believed that classic literature was the only thing young minds needed in order to develop. I remember her love for Shakespeare and Harper Lee. It was with her guidance and instruction that I realized the nuances of the information found in To Kill a Mockingbird and I fell in love with teaching. Mrs. Toppin had a tremendous commitment to ensuring that her students succeeded. She did this through the giving of her time during our Easter break from school. During this two week break Mrs. Toppin opened her home in order to prepare us for our final exams. She this three days a week for those two weeks without extra pay. Many years later Mrs. Toppin's dedication has not wavered even after many years. She continues to use her home as a place to reinforce her student's knowledge.
It is very important to understand the impact teachers can make in students when they can demonstrate or develop a skill of their interest in a topic. Students will have the opportunities to discover new interests as well and be themselves. When I was in elementary school. I didn't have the experience to write or talk about my own interest. There are many areas of areas of interest, such as fine arts, literature, mathematics, dance, technology, song. etc When I do my centers or small groups I always have space for the students can do different activities of interest. I know students explore more opportunities, they develop independence,and they can be themselves. Also, interest-based differentiation can be combined with other types of differentiation according to the categories of readiness, interest, and learning profile.(Carol Ann Tomlinson- Differentiate Instruction 2nd Edition)
A time in my life when an adult tapped into my interest was ninth grade english. Mrs. Schaedel helped me realize that Shakespeare could be fun. We did a variety of activities and she helped pushed me to realize that honors gifted is the class I should have been in. The projects and I started taking advanced classes and really pushed myself and graduated it with an 4.5 gpa lol. If it had not been for her, I would not known my true potential and pushed myself as much as possible. She is an inspiration and still speak to her from time to time. I knew then I wanted to be a teacher and I hope I do that for my students.
Someone in my life who tapped into my interest has always been my mother, but the person who helped me during a difficult time in my life when I was trying to make a change in my career was a manager I had when I used to work at an accounting office. She knew from the beginning that I wanted to become a teacher, but because of different life situations I had that on hold. I remember how she encouraged and supported me in any possible way so I could become a teacher. I will always thank this person because thanks to her I am the kind of person and the professional I am today. I learned from her how to stay motivated and keep going. Hopefully one day I will impact someone's life the way she did to mine.
Mr Koziol was my 11th grade Language Arts teacher. He was just out of college,therefore very young. One of his tasks was to teach us the elements of poetry, but he knew that most of us were not into the subject. Mr. Koziol had an idea. Along with the general poems we had to cover,he also exposed us to the popular songs of our time. So he taught us the elements of poetry using the songs of the Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel among others. We were all facinated by this because we were all avid music listeners. In my case, I played in a rock band, so this approach tapped into my interest in music. Mr Koziol's instruction made these songs come alive in a brand new dimension.
ReplyDeleteJack Sague
I always loved the English language. By middle school I was opretty advanced, and by high school I could engage in a communicative conversation. I remember my teachers acknowledging my language skills and giving me some extr wiork and challenging me to go a step further. They would give me some classroom priviledges, and the roll to tutor or assist those who were strugging. Those little actions empowered me, and the challenges they presented to me made me get better and learn more and i truly appreciated, and appreciate what they did for believing in me and knowing all my potential and where I could get.
ReplyDeleteThe teacher that saw me for me was my 10th grade Literature Teacher; she told me I was different. I didn’t understand what she meant by that. She would always tell me I was going to help & educate people and I knew she was right because I always wanted to be a doctor. She told me to always look at the world as a square because looking at it this way; I will always keep an open mind. Here that I was going places was a big help to me, because in the past, I was always told that people like me did not go places and I would not attend college. I always kept what she said in the back of my mind and I am helping people. I am a psychology major and I love working with the ESE & ESOL population. I not only work with my students, but I also work with their parents & their families. I learned to keep an open mind and look at people for you they are. I do not look at the world the same, because we are all different.
ReplyDeleteMerrissa Bailey
During middle school, I was in the 7th grade. I was enrolled in Algebra I. My teacher was Mr. Adams; he was a very distinguished looking guy. His mustache was very unique and noticeable. However, he was a phenomenal Math teacher. Of course, we all were young and energetic. My class was made up of advanced learners. So therefore, we were very talkative. Everyone would talk, yet every time I talked, Mr. Adams would call my name each time I engaged in conversations. One day, I was fed up when him calling my name. I expressed my dissatisfaction in front of the entire class. He became so upset with me that he moved me to the back of the room, away from everyone. I was so upset that every day I would come to class and slouch in my seat and stare off in space. I wanted him to think I was ignoring his instruction. He noticed, so he called on me to answer more questions than ever. Each time I would be correct with my responses. Although, I was isolated I was still absorbing all of the information. On the last day of class, he called me up to his desk and he explained to me why he changed my seat. He told me, I was his top student and I was being distracted by talking to the other students. I was so shocked and elated that I started crying. The entire time, I thought he disliked me. As of today, Math is still my favorite subject. Thanks to Mr. Adams, all my mathematical skills enable me to assist my own children and my students.
ReplyDeletePatreece Perry-Pelt
It was primary school, fifth and sixth grade, and being placed in centers, as an advanced learner was the best thing that could have happen for me. The teacher, mrs. phillips never ceased to challenge myself as well as all of her students. She was well organized, prepared and demanded excellence in all subjects including writing. In my adult life i have had a few adults that tap me on the shoulders and encourage me to become an educator. The journey was sometimes lonely and crowded. Sometimes i had little help and other times i had too much help, but never the less I completed the task to become an educator; however, i am still on the journey as an educator because being educated is perpetual. Karen Smith
ReplyDeleteWhen I was a little girl, I was fascinated by other cultures. My dream was to see the world. I wanted to explore all these wonderful places I saw on television. When my teacher began teaching me how to read, she found out about my passion. One day, she brought a travel magazine to class. I loved the pictures and I wanted to be there, but I couldn’t read what the print said. I was obsessed with this magazine, so my wonderful teacher gave it to me. I went home and asked my grandmother to teach me how to read the words. Pretty soon, I was recognizing the same patterns in other words. My mother got me more travel magazines. I would practice with my abuelita for hours. It was worth it! I learned how to read fluently very quickly. As a learner, I learned how to read which was the main purpose of the class. As a person, it gave me extensive knowledge about different cultures, and it inspired me to travel.
ReplyDeleteClaudia Ocampo
The magic year of first grade made such an impression that I decided to become a teacher. I was determined to pass along my love of teaching reading and the joy I found each time I picked up a new book and discovered new people and places. This didn't happen over night. My first grade teacher, Mrs. Jefferson made it happen. I attended school in Elizabeth, New Jersey. My parents made the ultimate sacrifice leaving behind all that was too familiar in order to build a better life for my brother and I, far away from the communist country, known as CUBA. My parents both only spoke spanish. So Mrs. Jefferson had her hands full.
ReplyDeleteI can honestly say I learned to read both through whole langugae and through phonics. All I can remember was that I did struggle at first, but once I read fluently my first full sentence nothing stopped me from wanting to read. I read cereal boxes, comic strips, road signs and store advertisements. I sounded out unfamiliar words using the rules I learned in class and wrote new words laboriously on yellow lined paper. I made my own dictionary and included words I heard at dinner, on the television each night , and words my brother used. Little did I realize I was using the whole language method or the phonics method.
If it wasn't for Mrs. Jefferson's endless patience and belief that I can read, I probably wouldn't have enjoyed the reading process. I had the pleasure of rolling over with her onto second grade! Teachers shape your future, God Bless you Mrs. Jefferson!!
-BLANCA GONZALEZ
Four years ago, while living in Atlanta, I met a teacher at the school where I taught. She was very modest, but very progressive. We became friends. She would always tell me “You are so intelligent, do you know that?””You need to be more confident about yourself!”During our conversation one day, she asked me why am I not finishing my Specialist Degree? I really had no answer. I’d become a bit complacent; I had started it at Nova, but did not finish. She kept nagging me about completing it. A year prior she had obtained her ES at Lincoln Memorial in Tennessee in leadership, and she was now beginning her doctoral program. So, one day she brought me the application, she even gave me her books. She continued to encourage me and that pushed me to go back, and joined a cohort the next semester. A year later, I graduated with a specialist degree in curriculum and instruction. I would have completed it anyway, but her endearing way of telling me not to waste time gave me an edge. My salary increased as a result, and I am more comfortable about research projects. I am looking into completing my doctoral degree in the near future. I’m very indebted to her for taking time to care. As adults, we also need encouragements from others, and we have to bestow the same upon them.
ReplyDeleteI was an ESOL student during those years when it was the "Sink or Swim" days...you were thrown into a regular classes and it was up to you. I remember this witch of a teacher..Ms.O'Connor, she was a #%&*%@@, but thanks to her I am an ESOL teacher and am the complete opposite of how horrible she treated me. Those years where help but she the the engine that sparked me to do better to show her what I was really made of! Thanks GOD that I won. On a positive note I also had great teachers in High School that made me see the world in a better light. In College one of the teachers that built me up was Dr. Deluca, my sales and advertising, Professor...he was great and this passion he had I too care and give to my students and people I encounter in this school named Earth. I have been truly blessed and I am who I am because of life's trials and great/ and not so great people that have crossed my path we learn from everything! I also believe that we learn most from those worst of mistakes we make. Light, love and Energy...Efrem Figueredo
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ReplyDeleteThough I have had many adults that have tapped into my interests, a most recent account was when I was a university student. As a music performance major, performing was 90% of my degree. I can honestly say that I was not the best performer compared to my colleagues. However, I found myself to be gifted more towards music composition. Discovering this, my professor (who was also my advisor) challenged me to compose as much as I could and then perform my work to make me a stronger performer. Though times my work just seemed like a dot on a page in my eyes, he saw something greater. If not for him challenging and encouraging me, I would not have five original published compositions today and would not be pursuing a MFA in Music Composition. I thank Dr. Ney Rosauro tremendously.
ReplyDeleteMy first semester attending Miami Dade North Campus. My architecture-drawing instructor asked me to rethink my educational goals. HE never bothered to explain the assignments or offer any encouragements. He did inform me that I was failing his class until the last day of school. I have always believed in myself and can do all things through Christ. That day I sat in font of Miami Dade North and decided that was the last class I would ever fail in college. Thank you SIR for the negative encouragement. I have graduated from two universities with honors.
ReplyDeleteLarry Williams
My second grade teacher, Mrs. Mize, noticed that I liked to write on my own time, especially when I was done with my work early. She asked to read some of my writing and she said that it was really good. At the end of the school year, Mrs. Mize, created a book (binded and published) with all of our classes' poetry, short stories, and illustrations. I felt like a real author!
ReplyDeleteMy childhood passion is reptiles, sharks, and dinosaurs. I developed an enormous amount of background knowledge, reading National Geographic and anything I could find. By the time I arrived to 4th grade I was sufficiently bored with what teachers presented me. I asked my 4th grade teacher, Ms. Cambron, to show my favorite documentary on sharks. I then wrote a review sheet and test, which I gave to the class and graded. I went over the answers with the class, but I don't remember if my teacher put it into the gradebook.
ReplyDeleteI don’t really remember being so interested in something that an adult would notice or acknowledge. What I do remember is my seventh grade science teacher, Mr. Flores. My hometown had a population of about 60,000. Not many of us went on to college because that just wasn’t in the cards for low-socio economic Puerto-Rican children. Mr. Flores taught at one of the two middle schools in my town. He saw my lack of interest and motivation in school but also my potential. Mr. Flores wanted more for us so he exposed us to what was outside of my little world by taking us on trips that I probably would never gone on. The one trip I remember the most is when we went to M.I.T. for a big Science Fair. Being exposed to the people and the university itself was an opportunity that I knew I would never experience as a student but it did make me realize that I could be something bigger and better than I was aspiring to. My interest and motivation in school didn’t change as much as it should have but the possibilities of what could be became evident to me as I grew older.
ReplyDeleteZina Berman
I remeber it well... I was in the fourth grade and instead of writing a book report, I asked the teacher if I could act out the story. She agreed and my acting career began! Well, my love for acting I should say. Anyway, this made me want to read and perform the story line out to the class once a week for extra credit. It not only increased my reading skills and social interactions but, also increased my self esteem greatly because I was good at it.
ReplyDeleteSusan Castleman
I have a few teachers that I remember from my school years. Some for good reasons and some for not so good reasons. But the one that brings a smile to my face every time I think of her is Mrs. Parrot, my 1st grade teacher at So. Hialeah Elementary. When I began school my parents enrolled me in a private school thinking it was the best idea. However, I completed kindergarten not knowing letter sounds, much less knowing to read. Fortunately, my parents withdrew me once they realized the inadequacies of the school and enrolled me at So. Hialeah. Ms. Parrot worked patiently and diligently with me to help me learn my letter sounds and eventually I learned to read. I still remember going to her house for tutoring. As an adult who loves to read and loves to teach young children to read, I can't imagine going through life not knowing how to read. I don't know if she is still around, but I do hope she knows how much I appreciate what she did for me and that I've never forgotten her!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your personal stories. I've enjoyed reading all of them!!
ReplyDeleteMy high school experiences were probably the first insight that provided some real thoughts about my interest, and abilities. There were required courses in the curriculum as a standard procedure, and then there were electives. The standard courses were mandates, and students did not have a choice in these selections, however the electives were more personalized. I feel confident in saying that my English Literature, Speech, and Drama teachers must have has the most vital impact on my academic, and personal growth.
ReplyDeleteThey guided me in the areas’ that I excelled in and provided recommendation to extend my abilities, by that I became a part of a Theatre Guild. He Guild exposed me to the arts, in many ways. I could use my writing skills in the extension of creating dramatic dialogue, or monologues. I could be a part of a production or direct one that I had written; I knew that my direction would be in the area of providing some leader or direction as a facilitator in the instructions process.
Barbara Harris
As a child you can say that I was quit inquisitive. One day, around the age of 7, at my neighbor park, I can across a group of men playing the game of chess. I began to flying questions back and forth about the unique looking pieces on the game board. I can remember, Coach Smithy telling me, no more questions, meet me here tomorrow And Be Ready to Listen. I became a modest player and even joined my middle school chest team as the 1st Female Player to play for Filer Middle. I learned that listening to Coach Smithy and other played a key role to my success.
ReplyDeletePamela Robinson
In middle school, I had this drama teacher, Mr. Ross, who would always give me opportunities to perform leading roles. He believed in me and encouraged me to continue acting and eventually start auditioning. Although Mr. Ross thought I would become an actress someday, my mother and step-father thought differently so they discouraged me from continuing with that idea and they decided I should apply to the HS of Fashion Industries (NYC)because of my skills in drawing and designing, so I applied and was accepted. At this HS, I met the most awesome teacher, Mrs. Nichols, who spoke to me one day when I was crying about the whole career change and she said, “whatever path you choose to take, whether it’s acting, designing or ‘even teaching others’, you will be successful because you show passion”. Teaching ELLs has been my passion for a long time and I continue to act. Mr. Ross didn’t know that I would someday have my own theatre…my classroom!
ReplyDeleteSORRY I FORGOT TO INCLUDE MY NAME BEFORE POSTING.
ReplyDeleteIn middle school, I had this drama teacher, Mr. Ross, who would always give me opportunities to perform leading roles. He believed in me and encouraged me to continue acting and eventually start auditioning. Although Mr. Ross thought I would become an actress someday, my mother and step-father thought differently so they discouraged me from continuing with that idea and they decided I should apply to the HS of Fashion Industries (NYC)because of my skills in drawing and designing, so I applied and was accepted. At this HS, I met the most awesome teacher, Mrs. Nichols, who spoke to me one day when I was crying about the whole career change and she said, “whatever path you choose to take, whether it’s acting, designing or ‘even teaching others’, you will be successful because you show passion”. Teaching ELLs has been my passion for a long time and I continue to act. Mr. Ross didn’t know that I would someday have my own theatre…my classroom!
Maria Santiago-Parreno
I remember when I was in middle school, science was not my strength. One of the key reasons was because throughout my elementary life I was only exposed to science and received no instruction. My teacher did not like science or science was not her strength. She always tells us how much she dislikes science herself. As a child who loves her teacher and care so much for her teacher, I was influence so much by her. I also dislike science because of her. This attitude continues until I met Ms. Thomas in Middle School. Ms. Thomas was a former medical student and due to her father illness and death was unable to complete the program. But, her passion for the subject was beyond my expectation. She was enthusiasm, passionate for science and refers to each student in the class as scientist. I was thrilled of her instruction and enjoy the lab sessions on a daily basis. She is an excellent teacher and knowledgeable of the content. From the time I met her and forward my interest for science grew tremendously. The benefits for me as a learner were her knowledge of the content, her ability to delivery explicit instruction and her passion for the subject as a whole.
ReplyDeleteMy sixth grade teacher, Mr. Spencer influenced my decision to become a teacher today. From a young child, I was always interested in teaching. My dolls were my students; I used a chalk board and individual notebook paper for students work. I enjoyed playing for hours talking to myself and using my voice to represent the voices of my dolls (students). Mr. Spencer always taught in a manner that captivated the students’ attention. He was an artful teacher, always able to hook the students on the topic being presented at hand. Learning took place in the class on all levels. He was a fun and caring teacher. There were no differentiation of instruction; we all learned the same content at the same time. All subjects were taught in one class, by one teacher. Mr. Spencer cared about students as individuals and accepted the difficult task of trying to identify the interests students brought to the classroom with them. As a class, we never experienced being placed in learning groups or separated based on reading levels Mr. Spencer was passionate about a topic and shared the passion with his students. Similar interests are likely to emerge in many of the learners as well. The class loved learning, I loved learning and I love observing my students while they are learning. This teacher definitely influenced my decision to become a teacher.
ReplyDeleteAudrey Bullock
As a young lady venturing into society, and not knowing what she wanted to do, I was notice by others. There were those/others who just knew what I should become before I did or ever realized, until someone tap into my interest, by the dearest person one could ever know. I give a lot of credit to one of the best teachers I know, in me becoming what I am today, a teacher. I have always did the best I can in what I did, and by me working with special needs students, open my eyes to a new beginning in my life.
ReplyDeleteAs a teacher working with special needs students, I observe good quality traits in many of my students. I constantly instill in my students to always do the best you can with what you have, and to never let anyone tell you what you are not able to do, otherwise! If you’re not able to “Reach the Stars, try Capturing the Moon”. As I stated in the beginning of my writing, it too was notice by someone else. I grew from the motivational talks, the inspiration, and the perseverance that was instilling in me to go back and become a teacher of this population of students. I was given a chance to do something that others felt I could do, and I know within my heart I do put in all that I can, and that is to teach others the best I know how. I benefit from all the talks that I receive, and I will never give up on my students.
Carolyn Collins
Mrrissa and Jack, thank you for sharing your personal stories. I enjoy reading them it great to have caring teachers who have their student interest at heart.
ReplyDeleteBY: Alden
When a student feels that the teacher encourages them to look into a topic that interests them then it helps students feel more eager to learn, and gives them a connection between school and their own desires to learn. Students can use the ideas that are already familiar to them to help them connect to new ideas that are less familiar. For teachers to create lifelong learners it always important to affirm student interests.
ReplyDeleteAs a child, I constantly saw my mother teach. Her philosophy was making every learning experience fun and playful. She would crack jokes depending on the task and activity. She influenced me not only for pursuing a teaching degree but to instill her philosophy in my teachings.
ReplyDeleteThrough out my years of education as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I had a teacher that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. Not everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves.
ReplyDeleteI had the unique experience of spending a summer abroad in Guanajuato, Mexico prior to the start of my senior year of high school. Upon my return, I began my AP Spanish class. Despite learning to speak Spanish somewhat fluently while in Mexico, I often felt intimidated in this class because I was one of only a few students who were not native Spanish speakers. I worried about my accent and whether or not I would accidently say the wrong thing. Noticing my reservation and knowing about my experience, my teacher tapped into my interest in Mexico in order to help bring my wall down. She asked me questions about my time there and showed an interest in my interest. When talking about something I felt so passionately about, I forgot about my insecurity in the language and let my guard down. I am so appreciative to this teacher because she refused to allow me to sit back in her class. She allowed me to become an active, engaged member of her classroom by recognizing my interests.
ReplyDelete--Lindsey Chapman
I came to this country during a time in which ESOL was not as widely used in schools. I felt lost many times. However, there was one teacher who would take the extra time after school to teach us the extra skills we needed in order to understand the material being taught during the day. She saw that we wanted to learn and tapped into that desire to help us succeed in school. She knew we were struggling and therefore encouraged us to work harder so that we could stay ahead of the game. We had to learn a new language plus the normal curriculum in order to graduate. however, she proved to us that it wasn't an impediment but rather just a small challenge in order to reach our goals. I can't take her enough for putting that extra time in order to help us move along.
ReplyDeleteA strategy that I really liked was: Design-A-Day Here students decide what to work on for a class period ,they specify goals, set time levels, and work toward their goals and assess their own progress. This strategy is useful when students have a particular interest.
ReplyDeleteChap.9: Even though we are constantly bombarded with alot of time constraints/deadlines, I keep in mind to survey my students interests and of course they enumerate many. From this pool, I gradually wean them out to the top 3...and we then negotiate. I then incorporate them in their Learning Contract...which we both are responsible and committed to carry out and modify-(as need be)-as the school year progresses...this is where the differentiation interplays with their interests...Fig. 9.1..briefly demonstrates a key outline to keep in mind for D.I. Lesson Plng...;>}
ReplyDeleteAs a teacher reflecting back on my student years I actually had a bad experience with differentiated instruction. I fell into a teachers class that thought she was differentiating students by placing them into seperate reading groups and putting down the students in the lower group. We were basically in the same group for the entire year and never reassesed. My negative experience actually helped me become a better differentiated instruction teacher. I understand that those students in the lower group have to continually be monitored and reinforced positively to succeed. If they constantly expect of you then obviously you will never try to be anything more.
ReplyDeleteI arrived to this country at the age of five in 1969 and I attended Auburndale Elementary in Miami, Florida. While in the fist grade, I remember spending most of my time standing in the back of the room facing the wall. I hated my first grade teacher so much I can't explain. She was verbally and physically abusive to me and other students who could not speak the language. I remember the "Gringos" on one side of the room and the "Refujees" on the other side of the room. I can honestly say, it was a "culture shock" for me and as a result of this, I was retained. So much for Differentiated Instruction, back in the day.
ReplyDeleteRonnica Nix
ReplyDeleteChapter 9
My 5th grade teacher at Howard Drive Elementary School Mr. Ballent was very influential in encouraging to me to tap into my talent of writing. He had an assignment of a personal journal that was between him and the students. Everyone felt like they had a personal connection to him. We would write to him, and he would write back to us. Everything was confidential. He would tell me that I would make an awesome journalist. He introduced me to the world of writing and entered me into the Dade County Youth Fair Exposition contest...in which I won first place. I went on to write for the Miami Herald as a freelance writer for the local section...(for a short period), and I also wrote for my college newspaper, and originally majored in journalism. I still have a love for writing, and I did the same assignment with my students...had them write in a journal to me, and I respond to them(when I taught elem.). The kids loved it, as I did at that age. I got to know the students and helped them to discover some of their talents, and build their self esteem.
My schooling years were quite conventional and I would say most of the time I was dissociated and disinterested. I was a very quiet child and consequently, very often "invisible". I particularly remember my second grade classroom because my teacher gave us "choices" to practice math activities. My sensory memory is of a little girl excited about being allowed to walk up to the front of the classroom and "owning" my learning. My interest was in the subtraction cards. Unfortunately, these type of activities were rare in my school. I also remember my excitement about learning cursive in fourth grade. I remember being very proud of my penmanship until my teacher had me trace her writing so I could learn the "right" way...
ReplyDeleteT. Junious
ReplyDeleteAs I reflect upon the times when an adult tapped in on my interest all I can really remember is how that show of interested motivated me to grow more, learn more, and to do more.
I then felt as if what I was doing was worthy and beneficial to me as a person. It gave the courage to want to share my time and talent with others. I no longer wanted to hold it in. Honestly it felt darn good!!!!
The benefits for me as a learner is that I was encouraged to learn more and push the envelope. I didnt just want to settle, i wanted more and more. As a person it boosted my self-esteem, my self confidence. That acknowledgement helped to boost my career and helped me to make very important decisions.
I knew then that it was ok to think outside of the box, to be out side of the box. I knoew that it was ok to be my dramatic self, that I could truly help me and still be myself!!
Thank you Ms. Debbie Lee I truly appreciate all of your words, wisdom, and time spent in helping to shape me into the person that I am today!!!!!
When I was in middle school, we started learning English as another language. It was a mandatory to learn English in China but a lot of students were not interested in learning and they were very slow and behind. As I was very interested in learning English, I was far advanced and finished my work much faster than most of the students. At the beginning, the teacher did not realize he needed to differentiate his teaching instructions until one day he found I was really bored and talked to other students and constantly disrupted him. He was so happy to see me so advanced in his class that he always gave me extra assignment or some interesting books to read after I finished my assignment way ahead of the group. He would also give me a list of extra challenge questions to answer in my spare time. Through his differentiated teaching instructions, I was able to engage myself during his class and he kept me busy in and out of classes. As a student, I was lucky to have a teacher like him to tailor my own need of learning English. As a person I was able to learn as much as I could and it was a great help in my learning experience. It fulfilled my fascination by other cultures and realized my dream of knowing America and become one of the American citizens. I am what I am today through all these learning experience. Thank you my English teacher back in China!
ReplyDeleteAs I reflect back and think about a time when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests, I remember my middle school language arts teacher. I enjoyed my literature class in middle school and remember it fondly. That year I devoured so many works of literature: classics, contemporary works, biographies, and historical fiction. At the time, I didn’t realize that she had tapped and sparked an interest in reading. An interest that now as an adult I still cherish. I am a reading teacher and a media specialist.
ReplyDeleteThe benefits were immeasurable. By taking note and igniting my passion for reading, my middle school language arts teacher positively impacted my life. She used literature as a vehicle for my learning and from that moment, I became an avid reader. Reading of course lead to academic achievement, and paved the way to my career of choice.
My sophmore year in college, I took a social work course with a professor who was highly recommended by my peers. Well, this professor changed my life forever. Mr. R. Blake had been made aware that I may be studying abroad in a Pre Med class, but I was having some reservations about leaving my "Safe Haven" . I loved college life, but my parents were encouraging me to study abroad immediately rather than later. He waited until class was over, and ask me to have a conference with him. His words of wisdom were as follow:Think of what you have learned in theory while at the university, research your options include your dreams, then dare yourself to choose the path that will make you and only you most happy. And, so, here I am as an educator trying to spread the wisdom I learned from him. During my 20 year college reunion, I search for Mr. B, and before I can tell him how my life turned out he stated so how is it going with teaching. All I can do is hug him and thank him for pointing the way.And without any persuasiveness he allowed me to reach down my soul and make my own decision. That dare to follow my own intuition is what changed my life, and I thank him for his guidance. Although I may have rich now, I guess I earn my richness in many other ways.
ReplyDeleteThere was one adult that always acknowledged my interest, my mother. When I showed the slightest interest in something, anything, she would provide an outlet, resources, time, and space for me to explore. This encouraged me to pursue many interests that still hold my attention to this day.
ReplyDeleteAs a learner, following one’s desire to explore a topic or a way of doing a task creates an engaged mind and a thirst to learn more, but not just learn, but apply it to many other things. One of these interests is gardening. Although I do this for enjoyment, I have learned many scientific theories on living things; how earth and space interact to support life, why plants are important to the environment, how animals contribute to the biosphere, the impact plants have on people, and the significance of a garden’s aesthetics on social relationships.
Supporting the interests of others creates a learning environment that is rich with possibilities and full of the wonders of learning.
I recall my English teacher in high school coming to my soccer team’s practice and telling me that he had made a special recommendation to the principal that I be promoted to a special class. He was not trying to turn me on to literature. He knew that I was already a curious reader. He also knew that I tended to read more out of school material rather than the required material. So he was not trying to turn me on to literature or writing; he was trying to get me to reach for excellence. Now I think that teachers are much better at convincing us to reach for excellence in subjects for which we have already demonstrated an interest. This is not really Differentiated Instruction. I think it simply something that teachers have always done. I am still looking for the teacher who can turn me on to Physics, Calculus, or even Biology.
ReplyDeleteThe examples we see in Chapter 9, like all the other examples, are in what we can call the soft subjects. (Not that I believe they are soft. Perhaps schools officials do. I think reading about the Civil War or Romantic poems can be as challenging as reading about Physics. But that’s a topic for another time.) In the chapter we hear about music, literature, history, which tend to be the subjects that lend themselves to DI strategies. Makes sense to me. However, should we apply DI to kids in Vocational courses? Do we want mechanics who have to find a way to get interested in certain types of engines. Cosmetologists who have to find their way into handling their clients’ hair or skin? I would really like to hear how we can turn the undisciplined student on to the hard subjects where measurements are not subjective but maddeningly objective. The teachers in these areas care about right answers, and right answers do exist.
I would love to see the day when all literature tests have an acceptable margin for subjectivity. Any subject in which interpretation, subjective interpretation, is necessary is a subject that is suitable for DI. The hard sciences? Well…. I am not sure.
Tony H.
Though many people have impressed and helped me in my school time, I have to be honest and highlight two names, Lolita and Guillermo. Indeed, I am making reference two my high school literature teachers. Under their umbrellas and, of course, some years ago, I started listening and using words like, metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, etc. I started facing problems when dealing with author’s purpose, author’s message, personal point of view, and had wonderful instruction sessions about the life of William Shakespeare, Jose Marti, Ernest Hemingway, and of course other writers whose have impressed readers minds.
ReplyDeleteOf course, during these wonderful years of luxurious lexicon, unusual words for me, short stories, fiction, fables, poetry and the likes, were also the time that some of my teachers tapped into my interests, made me reflect about future, and then put all tools in my hands to start thinking about being a teacher. And here I am, playing with my memories like Air Supply’s song, and been involved in this ropes since 1980 when I graduated as a teacher of English As a Foreign Language.
By Mr. Flores De La Paz, Hector L.
My father always acknowledge my interests. Since I was a child he instilled in me the interest on education and spoke about how wonderful it was to be an educator.As a CPA, he made time to teach in a university.in the evenings. After I became a teacher I realized that everything he said was true. I wanted to go for my Master because I felt my brain was missing something. Later I decided to go for a second Masters degree in education and he was there cheering me on. I don't know where I would be if it wasn't for him.
ReplyDeleteThe time in my life that I acknowledge an interest of pursue a teaching career occurred eight years ago. I was working in the field of real estate as a registration broker while there I was responsible for training newly hire real estate broker on data implication. The excitement I witnessed from observing the adults learning how to manage the system was gratifying. I enjoyed the feeling of being in control and empowering adults with information that was going to make their experience less frustrated. As I reflect on that time of my life, the change of careers was positive and I embraced the challenges without regrets.
ReplyDeleteI was fortunate enough that my parents not only supported all my endeavors but also encourage me to achieve them. I have always been a dreamer and stuck too long to loosing causes, but throughout it all, I believe my parents were the only ones who offered the unconditional support I needed.
ReplyDeleteOnly one professor –don’t remember her name- on my creative writing class, left an impression on me. She let me write, without correcting my grammar or style, anything I wanted. I was free to express all my ideas and she always praised me on anything I wrote. I was inspired and enjoyed every class. Looking back I see how focusing on the most important objective –creative process- maximized my efforts.
Francisco Castro
There was a librian (media specialist) who took a special interest in me during my last four years in elementary school. Mrs Jenkins allowed me to assist her in the library checking books in and out as students selected their books. Mrs. Jenkins held contests in shich students created book jackets or mibiles of favorite books. I was not must of an artist, but her encouragment spurred me to try my hand at design and creativity. Her encouragement to read and the opportuntity to spend extended time in the media center has lead me to be a life long reader. It may be that I talked way too much in the classroom and the teachers needed a break, now that I reflect back, but it really didn't matter to me. I was afforded the opportunity to see how the library is organized, the "old" card catalog organization system and become familiar with the amazing variety of books available to me. As a consequence of my "froendship" with Mrs. Jenkins, I developed a life long love relationship with reading and with books.
ReplyDeleteChapter 9 Reflection: Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? Ms.Scott, my 4th grade teacher at Kensington Park Elementary in Miami Florida, inspired me to excel in school. She nurtured me and inspired me to do my best. She worked on my self confidence and ability to get out of my comfort zone. Ms. Scott paid attention to my needs and ability in order to grow academically and emotionally.
ReplyDeleteBesides my dad I would have to say that Mrs. Gold, my sixth grade teacher at Citrus Grove Elementary School was the other person that had the biggest impact in my life. She allowed us to research, type, and report on anything of interest to us. I was given the opportunity to satisfy my thirst for knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI have always liked learning even though I was not great in school during my elementary and middle school year. One of the first people I remember picking my interest was my 10th grade English teacher. Even though I was always shy, this teacher was entertaining. He would have us act out funny sounding spelling words, create movie posters for books we were reading, create videos. The books he had us read though a part of the curriculum where read in a way that was captivating. This was the first teacher that allowed me to finally discover my love for school and better my vocabulary.
ReplyDeleteChapter 9
ReplyDeleteI have benefited from professors/adults' knowledge and exposure to topics on which I have an interest or I am passionate about. Having the adult connecting the dots between what I like/prefer to the learning process, have always been the main factor to motivate me to do more and better versus doing what is required and average performance. Just the fact that the professor/adult pays attention to what I am interested is a buster to my self-esteem, as well as a challenge to get better at explaining and discussing with other people my ideas and achievements
A time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests, was my 9th grade English Teacher, Mrs. Lunsford. I've always been pretty good in school in regards to academics. She was very witty, and we had lots of fun in her class. Each day, I looked forward to going to her class. One day, we had a discussion on careers and we had to complete a survey that helped us choose what type of career we wanted. I love technology, so I figured a career in computer and Information systems was a fit for me. Mrs. Lunsford saw something in me that I didn’t see. She asked if I ever thought about being a teacher. Initially, I said no. She asked me to join the club, FEA (Future Educators of America). It was in that club, that I found a love and passion for teaching. It was my teacher’s passion, and love for teaching that made an impact on my life. Long story short, I was a computer programmer for 3 years, but I decided to make a career change because I was feeling unfulfilled. I thought back to Mrs. Lunsford and the way she tapped into my interests and I became a teacher.
ReplyDeleteI have been very fortunate to have had wonderful teachers. My modern dance teacher at Miami Senior High was very motivating to me. But the one teacher that had the biggest impact in my life was my Mother. She was my first grade teacher, and she treated me harder than any other of the students in the class. In her classroom I was a student not a daughter. When we came from Cuba in 1966, I remenber how difficult it was with learning to speak English, she would sit with me at night after a long day at work for her and she would help me with my homework with the English that she knew from Cuba. Her lessons to me was to never give up and to always do my best at everything. She taught me to be a good caring person and to always be good to other but she taught me to be strong and to never be afraid, to always face my fears, to help others as much as I could. I am the person that I am because of my mother. I followed her footsteps and became a teracher just like she was and my grandmother. I lost her 5 year ago, but she is with me always.
ReplyDeleteI am who I am today because of what I have learned from my experiences. I guess I would not change anything because I have grown to except all my faults and mistakes as part of my journey thru life. I have learned and grown from it all. And now I'm headed down a new path. Just like a river is never the same I also have changed with time.
ReplyDeleteI had my heart badly broken. I was climbing out of depths of despair when I realized that everyone you love has the capacity to make you a better person if you have the maturity to let it happen. For instance, the teacher who taught me one thing that I am still uses it. One day I was acting in school’s play, I fall when I realized that I was on the floor my teacher Ofelia was next to me giving me confidence and telling that it was ok, that everybody made mistake and the most important thing was to get up and learned about our mistakes. In some ways those words made me felt that nobody is perfect. You just have to take a big breath and let the bad stuff go, and let the good stuff start. Easier said than done, I know, but it's amazing what can happen and how much you could learn from your experiences. From that day any mistake that I could make I would go back and fix it. This is what I learned from it!!!!!!
I think back to Middle School when my music teacher was able to see that not only did I love to sing, but I loved to lead! Through my experience with Conductor Bailey (you gotta remember the names of the good ones!) I was able to see that despite my prone to awkwardness I too could influence people around me! He gave me opportunities to be a conductor, and while I have done little in the field of music, I've been a leader ever since! Thank you Mr. Bailey.
ReplyDeleteI had always been a shy and very quiet person. I love to express myself on paper and dance when I am alone.
ReplyDeleteMy seventh grade Language Arts teacher encouraged me to enter my poetry in a contest. I entered and won third place; a trip to a theme park in Delray Beach, Fl.(no longer exist). I looked forward to entering more contests and winning prizes to places or things I nor my family could otherwise afford. I continued to write poems and then skits/plays but kept them to myself.
Once I got high school still shy and extremely quiet. I would get marked absent because the teacher did not hear me when I answered"Present". My high school language arts teacher met with myself and a counselor and decided to place me in drama classes to get me to open up. I really enjoyed this. I could be whomever I wanted, say whatever I wanted, and move however I wanted move without anyone really judging me. Finally,I realized I had all this creativity bottled up inside of me. FREEEEEEEE !!!!!!!! I continued to write, act, sing and dance. I shared my talents with my church on special occasions. I wrote Christmas, Easter, and inspirational drama for our youth dept. I find peace when I write, sing and dance. I joyfully share this passion with my students. I sing, act and write skits for them to role play. I encourage them to find the interest they have trapped/blocked and go for it.
I remember as far back as my elementary years, this particular teacher asked me many times to read aloud. I loved it yet, I had not realized that she picked me because I was a top reader in my class. One time after I had finished reading in front of the class, she hugged me and gave me a little present. Then, I felt extremely proud of myself. That day meant a lot for me.
ReplyDeleteReflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person?
ReplyDeleteI'll never forget Mr. Ike, my 9th grade English teacher. I had fallen asleep during our entrance test in 8th grade. I ended up being placed in a remedial class for English. Mr. Ike immediately noticed that I was placed in the wrong level and I was reading and writing far beyond the student in his remedial class. He kept me in that class that year but worked with me on differentiated projects and had me help other students in the class. This is where I acquired my love of learning and teaching. That year, Mr. Ike and I read Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman while the rest of the class read something at their level. At the end of the year, Mr. Ike told me he was recommending me for 10th grade English Honors. As a learner, this display of trust and confidence in me allowed me to go on to graduate 24th in a class of thousands. It also allowed me to go onto colleges like Cornell University, Rutgers University and UM. I wouldn't be who I am today without Mr. Ike believing in me and giving me a second chance. I always tell my students this story and tell them that they can leave their past at the door and start fresh in my class.
As a little girl, I was very timid and failed to participate in class; it was so extreme that my kindergarten teacher met with my mother and inquired as to my ability to speak the English language. To my kindergarten teacher, the ability to voice one’s opinions seemed to correlate with IQ. My mother informed me of my teacher’s concerns, and in order to prove my teacher wrong; I purposefully began to participate— this was indeed a chore for me, which did not come easily, but did spark the purpose, drive and motivation in me to succeed. “Interest are, in a way, windows on the world.” A developed interest in one area is almost inevitably a route to learning about many other things” including oneself. “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” ~Henry Brooks Adams
ReplyDeleteReflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person?
ReplyDeleteAs a young girl in elementary school, I always had an interest in helping others. I was the one to help the students who had gotten hurt or needed an extra boost. I never really thought twice before carrying books for others.
One day, my fifth grade teacher, Ms. Andreacci, decided that she wanted me to be more than a helper. She asked me to become a student ambassador for our school. Thinking I was helping her, I accepted the challenge. Little did I know that she was teaching me leadership skills. She wanted me to be in the limelight not behind the scenes. She arranged it where I would guide tours of dignitaries who were visiting our school. She taught me to speak in front of groups and handle situations with poise.
To this day, I feel that her belief in me allowed me to become who I am and to face life head on. She taught me to always have high expectations give everything my all. She truly made a difference in my life and I hope that I am doing the same for my students.
It is known that iron sharpens iron, this is also true for us as humans. I could remember vividly when one of my colleague asked me to host his engagement party as his MC at a local restaurant in Key Biscayne. I gave him all type of excuses so that he could release me from that social obligation , but he insisted that I was the only qualified individual who knew him well enough to speak on his behalf. Therefore I was obligated to rescue him..Apparently the audience and himself were satisfied of my performance and few days later, I was asked again to MC at a party that I knew no one.
ReplyDeleteWhat did I learn from that experience? We are more capable to do things that feel we could not do. It is only a matter of a single push that is needed! t
I remember as a second grader our teacher Mrs. Martha would always make everything a competition to try us to learn the time tables, she saw that I had a very good memory for number and she always encourage me from that time on I always liked math found a way to learn more about it, and now teach math and science. I thank her for her encouragement.
ReplyDeleteMy junior year of high school I was chosen by my P.E. instructor to be one of 4 team leaders for a fitness challenge. We chose our teams and team leads were responsible for delegating responsibilities and assigning fitness tasks. I was given the opportunity to act as a leader for one of the first times in my life. I learned to listen and value the judgment of others even when their opinions were different then my own. I even made key decisions and changes based on their advice. I learned to delegate responsibilities to others. I learned the value and consequence of the choices I would make and their impact on others.
ReplyDeleteWe ended up winning the fitness challenge and I was asked to make a speech on behalf of my team. I thanked everyone for their participation. I thanked and congratulated the efforts of everyone. I learned that in recognizing others you earn everyone's respect. I then turned my attention to my team and thanked them for their efforts and all that they had taught me. I learned that giving a speech on the spot is best spoken from the heart and I learned that conducting yourself with honor is the only way to win.
Reflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interests. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person?
ReplyDeleteI remember one time I was asked by the children's pastor to create an edible hands on activity for the week long summer program for the participants ages six through 10. She said she knows that I am very creative and like to make, build and draw things. I was flattered because my activity will not only be used at that church campus but at the other eight church campuses throughout the nation.
The theme of the summer camp was adventure on five islands over five days. The activity was to create an edible project within 10 minutes with only five ingredients. I was assigned three assistants that would be in the classrooms to disseminate the information to the participants. In addition, I had to demonstrate the activity to the other campuses via SKYPE. Oh goodness! The stress was on. I was given a budget and a deadline. We, the three assistants and I, came up with an edible island made of Rice Krispies treat, frosting, Tootsie Rolls, green Fruit Roll-Ups, and Teddy Grahams. It was simple and a lot of fun.
This assignment taught me to better communicate, learn to be open to critique and rely on the talents of others as well. Those were areas that I had problems with before. We received rave reviews from the other church campuses, the parents and the kids.
Well a time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interests was my cousin a few years ago when I wasn't sure if teaching was the right choice for me to take, because to be honest when I first substituted in a class and I saw how different it was from my native country I got afraid, but thanks to her I fought my fears and that's why I am now proud of myself to be an educator and feel comfortable with what I am doing which is teaching.
ReplyDeleteI already shared this in class, but I will share this experience again. I went to a private school from K - 3rd grade that did a horrible job at teaching me anything. My parents moved me into a public school in 4th grade, and I was basically at a kindergarten reading level. So from grades 4 to 7, I was playing catch up, and was a struggling reader. One day in 7th grade, I was in the library, and the librarian had a bunch of books spread out. I choose one with a really weird, almost disturbing picture on the cover. It was by Stephen King, and it was called "The Drawing of the Three". I started reading this book, and it was full of fantastical creatures, horrific situations, and some vulgar language. I checked the book out from the library, took it home, and read it all in one weekend. Before that, it would take me months to finish a book. My parents were in shock. This experience helped me take what I learned from reading something I was greatly interested in, and helped me apply it to other readings I had to do that school year. All of the sudden my grades went from C's and D's to A's and B's, and not just in my Language Arts class. This whole experience changed the way I read, the way I learned, literally changed my life.
ReplyDeleteThis person was my step-mother, who just happened to be a 3rd grade teacher in Alexandria, Va. I met her when I was 13 I liked going to her class to help out with her students. This was the time when Pet-Rocks were in style, so I took the kids outside to find and create their own Pet Rocks. The kids were happy to get outside - and some happy they could just find rocks and paint. I was happy to help them realize they didn't need to spend any $ on a rock. From then, on she would always tell me to consider becoming a teacher. At that time, I really didn't know what I wanted to do, so I didn't pay too much attention. I think she believed in me more than I believed in myself, but I have many traits that remind me of her and the time we had together. These are good traits that I feel I take into the classroom with me each day. Thank you Elizabeth Ellison Nellessen!
ReplyDeleteThere was this very knowledge high school math teacher that tapped into my interests.
ReplyDeleteThere were so many benefits that I got from that person. Besides gaining a lot of knowledge on the Math subject, I also learned to understand how to plan my time focussing on my interests, and to set and accomplish my goals.
Long after I finished high school, I realized how important the role of that teacher was. I realized how much I benefited from his teaching when I finally decided to enroll in the School of Architecture in my home town.
All my accomplishments on all the subjects related to math together with the ability to manage my time during, between, after and before classes in order to achieve my goal to become and architect I own
to my teacher, Martin Landaeta.
He passed away many years ago.
chapter 8: I was lucky that I had very good teachers who always encouraged me as well as my parents to success in my personal and professional life. It helped me to always be positive and push my self to reach all my goals. That is why I do the same with my students. I always talk to them and find a way to know their interests so they can benefit as student and as a person and success in their present and future life. Students interests is very important in a differentiated class to have the student motivated and on task. The problem is that not all students in a class have the same interests and is there when the teachers play their most important role to find a way to motivate them and cultivate their interests so we can push them towards success in their studies.
ReplyDeleteque buena estudiante, muy bien!!
DeleteA time in my life when an adult tapped into my interests and encouraged me was my 5th Grade Catholic teacher . She was strict by yet kind and generated interests in all topics. She set time aside for students to share their history and background interests such as Spanish . She introduced a world of ideas and motivated us to by making all lessons relevant and memorable. In today's world where we all live at a high pace, it's important to create an inviting classroom environment where students can propose ideas for tasks and projects. By encouraging interests ,students see how cross connections are all relevant. In this way, there will be less stress on the teacher and the class. Teachers need to nurture and trust their interests. A rigid lesson will backfire. The greatest gift a teacher can give is chances to explore and an interested ear.
ReplyDeleteMs. Medina my science teacher development me interest in science, I feel curiosity about animals habitats of varied animals such as bears, tigers, frogs etc. I help my students to develop this interest for sciences too. I read with them short stories, novels, poetry, and action comics about animals then together discussion about story. They like and enjoy.
ReplyDeleteThere is no one particular time that comes to me at this moment, but I know that when interest in anything occurs, you can usually link or connect it to something else of interest that already exists. It's amazing to me that I have not looked at my instruction (at least I don't think so) from this perspective before. The benefits of finding the student's interest in something other than what my lesson is about and connecting it to learning the material at hand is necessary in today's classroom. Education (learning) is all about making the connections and this works for not only children, but adults as well. For example, people who obtain master degrees are usually extending what they already know to what they want to know more about. Now that my brain is starting to function at 10:30 p.m. I'm thinking of my interest as a teacher- and how I desire to take my students to the next level. I'm taking these endorsement courses as an instrument to accomplish that goal, and my interests have been tapped and deepened in every course I've taken. The way that I have benefited in this search for knowledge and understanding is that I get it it now. It's ALL ABOUT CONNECTIONS! Knowing my students interests takes me deeper into who they are as people, and how to make learning matter from their own perspective will help me to reach them as learners. This for me is a paradigm shift!!. I know that my classroom will continue to evolve as a result of my interests being connected to what I need to learn. Light has finally come.
ReplyDeleteI am an active and visual learner. I love to move, dance, and sing. Over the years, I have had teachers use different strategies and activities to get the students moving with the purpose of learning. My 1st grade teacher was the most effective and efficient at this technique. Even though I was young, how she taught has always stuck with me. As young students we were having so much fun during the activity we didn't even notice we were learning. She would find a way to make our learning experience a game, song, or dance. It was purposeful play as I like to call it. I have tweeked and modified this strategy over the years with the wide range of learning styles, levels and interests I have encountered. The retention has shown to be high when the students encounter the information or content in a variety of ways. Also, if the students can teach the content to another peer or person, the level of understanding is higher than just being able to perform the task. This strategy was seen in my 1st grade class, which is engraved in my head, and in my classroom over the years.
ReplyDeleteA time in my life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into my interest was when I was in six grade. I did not like math, i spend long hours studying and it was just difficult for me to understand. Until, I went to middle school and met the most amazing teacher. She made math fun for everyone. At some point she realized that I liked music and what she did was create songs about math strategies and skills that will stick. I had this teacher for six and seventh grade. Since that moment on, I became interested in Math and thanks to her I did well in high school. As a teacher, I like to find my students interest, this motivates them and sparks their interest in the subject matter.
ReplyDeleteMy 3rd grade teacher was the one that acknowledged and tapped into my interests. From the time I could walk my parents put me in dance lessons, and I can vividly remember a time when dancing was my life (age 4 - age 21). This particular teacher noticed little things about me that made me stand out from my peers (my posture, how I'd walk on my tippy-toes, or how I'd twirl up to her desk and through the halls as opposed to simply walking). She often provided opportunities for me to perform for my peers and for special presentations. She even gave me the license to go before my classmates (as an expert) to share my art with them after having read specific dance related articles or stories. As a learner, I felt validated. I felt that we had something in common - my interest in dance and her interest in my interest in dance. I felt connected to her in a way that I had never felt with any other teacher before, and I absolutely loved learning with her. She helped me to feel more confident not only as a person but as a reader. The confidence I often exuded while I was performing began to spill over into my academics. She reached me on a level no other teacher ever had. She cared about what I cared about!
ReplyDeleteAna M.
ReplyDeleteTwo important events occurred in my life when an adult ignited into my interests.
One was sitting in my father’s lap (8 brothers and sisters) while he taught us the ABCs was definitely a time when I acquired/showed an innate interest and love for books, school and learning.
The other event was when I was in high school and a teacher volunteered me to teach illiterate adults reading and shorthand (1970). She certainly did not know that by this experience she was helping me choose my loving profession. I am glad since many people spend so much time of their life deciding it. Personally, I do not want to do anything else in my life but teaching. Even though, it is a low salary profession, I love the three months of vacations and afternoon time to spend with my love ones and the respect and admiration of my students. What a bliss!!!
This happened most recently when my assistant principal had an extended conversation with me after my last yearly evaluation and she was sharing with me the things that she had noticed that stood out in her mind and what she shared with me that really made me feel appreciated.I had been teaching for about 8 years and teaching was a big career change for me and I was beginning to have doubts about my abilities and seriously considering looking for other opportunities, but that conversation reignited my my passion for teaching. I really needed an honest opinion from an objective person.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was young, I loved the teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I would watch the cartoon all the time and talk about it with my cousin. One day my dad decided that he was going to show me the “real” Ninja Turtles. He asked me which one was my favorite one. I responded Michelangelo. He took out a book with the name written in a big nice classical font across the top with a picture of a white man with a beard. I looked at him confused. He said this is the real Michelangelo. He then proceeded to tell me how the turtles that I love so dearly are named after Renaissance artist and they are each every famous for things. For the next couple of weeks, he introduced me to each of these artists and what they did.
ReplyDeleteAs a learner, he found something that I loved and turned it into an avenue to get me to be interested in the artist. From that moment on, I remember loving art and architecture. As a person, I am very cultured, in the sense that I enjoy going to museums, learning about different artist, traveling, etc. I do not know if I can attribute all of that to this but it was definitely a starting point to it.
I was an awful math student. I loathed math, especially in high school. My Geometry teacher Ms. Shelia Lewis realized that I never participated. She took the time after class to ask me why I never participate; I explained to her my anxiety of math. From that moment on, every class session was an adventure in the world of Geometry. I was learning without the anxiety because Ms. Lewis made it fun. We worked in groups and teams to complete assignments; she removed the microscope I thought I was under. As a learner and a person I was able to benefit from her teaching style as well as her personality. So today, I have implemented the Shelia Lewis approach as a educator.
ReplyDeleteI was an awful math student. I loathed math, especially in high school. My Geometry teacher Ms. Shelia Lewis realized that I never participated. She took the time after class to ask me why I never participate; I explained to her my anxiety of math. From that moment on, every class session was an adventure in the world of Geometry. I was learning without the anxiety because Ms. Lewis made it fun. We worked in groups and teams to complete assignments; she removed the microscope I thought I was under. As a learner and a person I was able to benefit from her teaching style as well as her personality. So today, I have implemented the Shelia Lewis approach as a educator.
ReplyDeleteMrs. Howard, my 2nd grade teacher was this person. She is the reason and the guide for my teaching and work with teachers today. She made learning completely hands-on and incorporated music into everything, which I love. We even had our own shows on stage for our parents b/c she invested so much time in this application of our learning. We wrote all the time in her class, working through the complete writing process. We were able to take the overall writing topic and match it to what we wanted to write about. I didn't necessarily love writing, but I was good at it, so I didn't mind working with her b/c I knew she saw us as individuals and loved us.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was five year old, my mother sent me to the corner store to buy something. The seller gave me the wrong change. I quickly exclaimed to him that 50 cents were missing. He was impressed by my precise and devoted explanation of how the change was not correct. He walked me home and explained the entire conversation to my mother. My mother’s aunt was there and took this event to the next level. For more than a month, this had been the on- going conversation to the rest of the families and friends. Even though I did not excel in math while I was in school. I still stayed confident that it was not a challenged for me. I always reminded myself that I could do mathematics.
ReplyDeleteI’m fairly new in my current assignment. The school’s population is predominantly Haitians or Haitian descent students. Most of my students are from families that value education. They always bring their homework and thrive to do their best in school. I have a few incidents where students did not bring their homework to class or were off tasks. All I had to do, was to mention that I would call their parents or lower their conduct grades to have order return to normal.
ReplyDeleteMy girls are very quiet and submissive. I have to call on them in order to participate. The boys are aggressive and arrogant. They talk out of turn and don’t work in collaboration with their peers even if the assignment calls for it. They think they are self-sufficient and barely accept help from their classmates.
The above comment is for chapter 10.
DeleteI was in tenth grade when my principal acknowledged me about my potential in education. That principal was also teaching eleven and twelve graders and each time one of his students could not solve a math problem or answer a history question, he called on me to give the answers and after giving those answers he made his students understand why I was chosen to give the responses. Since that time, I noticed how important it is for someone to concentrate on education. As of today, I can say that principal is still in my memory as the one that tapped me other than my mother on the shoulders and encouraged me to become what I am today. Thanks to Mr.Augustin, all my educational skills enable me to assist my own children and my students.
ReplyDeleteSome years ago I had to return to live in the USA after I had been away for 16 years. I did not want to go back to my old career and a close friend of mine suggested that I considered the educational field. Prior to that I never contemplated becoming a teacher; It was never a consideration. Although I had many apprehensions, I realized that this friend saw something in me that would benefit young children and followed her advise. Now I am a teacher and it is the most rewarding work I have ever done. I am constantly learning from my students and they keep life interesting and full of challenges.
ReplyDeleteReflect on a time in your life when an adult acknowledged and tapped into your interest. What were the benefits for you as a learner and as a person? A time when an adult acknowledge my interest was in the 12th grade, I had an interest in collecting coins at the time. My teacher also was a coin collector she showed me her collection of coins. I was able to benefit from her acknowledging my interest as a coin collector because she taught me how to look up a coin value. This was helpful when it came time for me to trade coins with other collectors because now I have a face value of the coin.
ReplyDeleteAs a learner, I recall my eighth and ninth grade English teacher giving me the opportunity to read and write about topic that were of interest to me. I was very fortunate to have her for two years, I felt so lucky. She had a very interesting background herself and she shared her experiences with us. In turn she allowed us the opportunities to share our own experiences through our writing assignments. She taught us how to relate what we read to our own lives. This made all the difference in the world to me. I had always felt inadequate in reading and writing, and her approach to teaching really made a difference for me. At last, I felt like I can do something right in my English class and felt good about it. I went on to be recommended for college bound and honors classes in high school.
ReplyDeleteAfter my parents, Nilda Gonzalez was an elementary school teacher whose influence is still present in my life as an adult. She recently passed away , but I feel blessed to have the chance to know her as one of the most powerful teachers since I was a little girl. She taught me the importance of reading, how essential it could become if you use it wisely. She gave me a book, which is nowadays my favorite one " La Edad de Oro", written by a Cuban national poet, Jose Marti. The book ( which at the beginning was a weekly magazine for children in 1989) had such fascinating stories, poems, and essays meant for children and adults. Each section had not only an entertaining story but a powerful message on what the human values were. Every day I read orally a different story and I became an excellent oral reader because she told me by her passionate modeling how to use intonation, pronunciation, and make the reading meaningful. Nilda created an open invitation for my interests giving me the opportunity to choose which books I was more interested in and bring them to class , so I could read them to my classmates and share what were their messages. I was so engaged bringing children stories books to class that I started reading them more enthusiastically using the same techniques she used to grab students' attention. Eventually, I became the official oral reader in our school's matutinos every Friday. Nowadays I still love to read orally in front of big audiences without any stage fright at all!
ReplyDeleteCh 9. I was a struggling reader due to the language. My parents were immigrants that came from Cuba in the 80’s and where I had a tutor that helped me learn how to read. Thanks to Mrs. Ramirez I learned to read and she made me understand the importance of reading. She would tutor me and my friend Janet every Tuesday afternoon. I struggled where eventually I was able to read a book, letter and later even correspondence for my parents. My parents always pushed me to be better and always instilled in us that education was the key to a better life and to strive to be the best that we can be as human beings. To this day I’m honest I do not have a Love for reading but I know the importance and impact it has in our lives and as a result I’m instilling this love to my own children personally and professionally.
ReplyDeletech. 9 - As I look back today in my past, I can say I was not one of the best students during my primary years. I guess thats why am so hard on my kids now. Looking back as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I look back at my teachers in Shenadoah Elemenary and remember that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. And I tell my own kids at home and at school, nothing in life is easy we need to work for it and we are going to find obstacles in our way but we just learning how to deal with them. Everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves.
ReplyDeletehrough out my years of education as a child I have been able to understand and value learning very differently. I had a teacher that no matter how hard I thought the material was she would make me figure out how to do it and have the correct answer at the end. Giving up was never an option. She thought me to appreciate learning and the outcomes that it brings. Not everything in life you will enjoy doing nor feel 100% comfortable doing it, however, it is important that at least one tries to always give their 100% and make it interesting for themselves.
Vivian Marzall
I can remember three of my teachers that really took the time to make learning fun for me. Mr. Deciucies was my middle school Language Arts teacher, Mr. Suchowski my 9th grade English teacher, and Ms. Grice my 12th grade English teacher. These individuals made my learning years fun and challenging. I was very active in my high school, but some of the things my teachers helped me with was joining the FEA club, receiving an internship at North Shore Hospital, and given a job at a bank, because they took an interest in me. These guys were amazing teachers that really enjoyed what they did. I certainly admire them and I strive to be an inspiration to my students.
ReplyDeleteElda
My teacher of Philosophy make a great impact in my life.My music teacher made me taste a different flavor of the music and I really enjoy while playing and listening.Mi Calculus Teacher open my brain to a more complex view of the world of numbers and their connection with real life.Most importantly,they gave me a legacy to use as an educator to give my best to the students not only as a teacher,as a role model for them.
ReplyDeleteI can distinctly remember my fifth grade teacher tapping into my desire to write long elaborate stories and read royal fiction books. As a result of the time she invested in developing my love for reading and writing, I have been able to instill that love and passion in many of my own students. My fifth grade teacher never let me settle for mediocrity. She always forced me to work at my highest potential and I knew that her love for me was genuine. Now that I am a teacher, I know this is my opportunity to help my students tap into their interests and make them work at their highest potential.
ReplyDeleteWhile growing up, I was blessed to have a mother that was a teacher. She motivated me to read and write before I began Pre-K. I was read to everyday, I was taken to bookstores and libraries to pick out books that were of interest to me because I did not was to read the same books that my brother was reading. Both of my parents always wanted me to try my best and I have memories of the both of them sitting with me at the dining room table to help me with homework. Even if I didn't need the help, they would still sit by my side as I worked. Once I was old enough to join the gifted program at my elementary school, I had the same teacher for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. She really helped me further my education. She would provide inquiry based projects on topics that we enjoyed and she would let us create stories about anything we wanted. As a learner, I was challenged on a daily basis and not only did I push myself, but I had great people pushing me. When I am in the classroom, I try to be that advocate for my students and push them because I know they can do it, they just need to want it.
ReplyDeleteAs a teacher, I understand to get the interest of every student it is really hard work. Currently, with technology such as: computers, I-pad, I-phone etc. students manifest their indifference during reading time. However, it is time to change our mind and to involve them. For example: with a coolest song, poetry, rapping, acting out, a simple video and a game. In addition, we also have to pay attention to their current tendencies, culture and interests. Rather, their distraction we can focus in something positive like a name of movie, place to travel or to go. In this way they can benefit as a learners. I had an amazing experience with the projects. They love to participate and be creative when you let them to innovate on their own boat as a captain. They discovered traditions, cultures, religions, places to go, how to dress up, and many interesting things that you can ever imagine. For Hispanic heritage, one of my students created a boy with his dad face as an Argentine. It was so hilarious and every one enjoy meanwhile he explained his project.
ReplyDeleteMaria Gonzalez
From 1st-12th grade, I attended traditional Catholic schools where teachers mostly taught what was interesting to THEM! Try as I might, I can’t really think of any adult (besides my parents) who acknowledged or tapped into any of my interests, so I asked my daughter and I’m relieved she has had a different experience. Her fourth grade teacher introduced her to Odyssey of the Mind, which is an international program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. Her teacher invited her to be on a team that learned to apply their creativity to solve problems that ranged from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. She learned about science and literature in such a creative increased her enthusiasm for learning about complex topics. Over the course of several years, she and her team competed at the local and state level. Because of her teacher’s confidence in her and the exposure she got from meeting and competing against her peers from across the state, I can see how her confidence blossomed and her interest in science and art was supported. I’m thankful this one experience has left a positive, lasting impression on her.
ReplyDeleteAs an adult looking back into my childhood I can remember one teacher that stood out from the rest. My third grade teacher Ms. Gonzalez will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will never forget the way she would try to motivate us and try to get us to fall in love with reading. She would bring in books that would tap right into our interest. As a child I really never enjoyed reading. I remember one day Ms. Gonzalez asking me to go choose a book that interested me in our classroom library. I came back with a chapter book, which we both knew I wouldn't be able to read because it was way above my reading level. That day I remember she grabbed the book out of my hand and instead of telling me I wouldn't be able to read it, she announced to the class that she would be reading a new chapter book to us. She then continued to read a chapter a day until we completed the novel. It was not until I became an adult that I realized that I owe my love for reading to Ms. Gonzalez. She believed in me and gave me the confidence I needed to one day read my own chapter book. She has forever impacted my life.
ReplyDeleteIn high school I was fortunate to have had a teacher in History. Mr. Kramer gave us the liberty to choose the actives and projects that we wanted to do. I remember I picked a project that was about the Vietnam War because I found the era so interesting with the War, and the counter culture that was going on. I wrote a paper on it and along with a slide show presentation. Its was something I will never forget and I really got an insight into that time in American history that was pivotal, acrimonious, dividing and in many ways so important that if affected the nation as a whole and changed the course of history. I benefited from this instruction because I was able to implement the course requirements and still pursue topics that really interested me. as i learner i passed the class with an A, as a person I grew in empathy in the sorts of issues many Americans were going through at the time.
ReplyDeleteMr. James Sechrist, my high school Algebra teacher was the person who acknowledged me about my future success. As a freshman in high school, I was afraid of tackling math especially Algebra. I even had my dad speak with Mr. Sechrist to see if I could change classes. His response was "No". He made Algebra fun. We worked in groups to complete assignments. He would show me step by step on how to solve a problem. He would also take time from his planning to help me understand the concept in Math. As a learner and a person, I learned to never give up and always be motivated to learn new things.
ReplyDeleteMy teacher of Philosophy, Non Irma, in the Immaculate Catholic High School in Ecuador, encouraged me to do co-teaching with her when I was a Senior in High School. That gave confident and help me to decide to be teacher, and apply the interaction between teachers and students.
DeleteI believe this is very important to increase high order thinking in the students, and let them think out of the box, and not just follow materials from texts. In other words, apply what it is going to be used in real life.
It was the beginning of my freshman English class, the mid-term project entailed writing a research paper. The outline or format for the research was the same for all of the students, but we had an opportunity to choose a topic within a list of topics designated by the teacher. My parents, brother and I attended the Felicity United Methodist Church in New Orleans Louisiana and I wanted to compile research about the origin of the Methodist church. My friends suggested that I choose a topic within the stablished guidelines. My English teacher was a very special individual; because English was not my native language, she reached out to me for added clarification of assignments. When I spoke to her about my wishes, she made the accommodations that allowed me to choose my topic of interest. This was my first term paper and I spend most of my time compiling information, speaking with and interviewing pastors as well as visiting many Methodist churches in New Orleans. Motivation was one of the factors that propelled me to work hard on my project. I earned and received an A+ on the term paper because I was allowed and encouraged to pursue my interest.
ReplyDeleteThere are many teachers that I have been blessed to know. However, the one teacher who stands out in my mind is my English Literature teacher from my final two years at secondary school in Barbados. Mrs. Toppin was an energetic woman, who believed that classic literature was the only thing young minds needed in order to develop. I remember her love for Shakespeare and Harper Lee. It was with her guidance and instruction that I realized the nuances of the information found in To Kill a Mockingbird and I fell in love with teaching. Mrs. Toppin had a tremendous commitment to ensuring that her students succeeded. She did this through the giving of her time during our Easter break from school. During this two week break Mrs. Toppin opened her home in order to prepare us for our final exams. She this three days a week for those two weeks without extra pay.
ReplyDeleteMany years later Mrs. Toppin's dedication has not wavered even after many years. She continues to use her home as a place to reinforce her student's knowledge.
It is very important to understand the impact teachers can make in students when they can demonstrate or develop a skill of their interest in a topic. Students will have the opportunities to discover new interests as well and be themselves. When I was in elementary school. I didn't have the experience to write or talk about my own interest. There are many areas of areas of interest, such as fine arts, literature, mathematics, dance, technology, song. etc
ReplyDeleteWhen I do my centers or small groups I always have space for the students can do different activities of interest. I know students explore more opportunities, they develop independence,and they can be themselves. Also, interest-based differentiation can be combined with other types of differentiation according to the categories of readiness, interest, and learning profile.(Carol Ann Tomlinson- Differentiate Instruction 2nd Edition)
A time in my life when an adult tapped into my interest was ninth grade english. Mrs. Schaedel helped me realize that Shakespeare could be fun. We did a variety of activities and she helped pushed me to realize that honors gifted is the class I should have been in. The projects and I started taking advanced classes and really pushed myself and graduated it with an 4.5 gpa lol. If it had not been for her, I would not known my true potential and pushed myself as much as possible. She is an inspiration and still speak to her from time to time. I knew then I wanted to be a teacher and I hope I do that for my students.
ReplyDeleteSomeone in my life who tapped into my interest has always been my mother, but the person who helped me during a difficult time in my life when I was trying to make a change in my career was a manager I had when I used to work at an accounting office. She knew from the beginning that I wanted to become a teacher, but because of different life situations I had that on hold. I remember how she encouraged and supported me in any possible way so I could become a teacher. I will always thank this person because thanks to her I am the kind of person and the professional I am today. I learned from her how to stay motivated and keep going. Hopefully one day I will impact someone's life the way she did to mine.
ReplyDelete