Quick write: What does it mean to be an adolescent?
It's a time when most are uncomfortable, embarrassed, just trying to figure themselves out while not being comfortable in their own skin.
Where were you as an adolescent?
I was in small town, rural New Hamshire. The classes were small in size, most of my seventh grade teachers in Junior High were also my eighth grade teachers in the same subject areas.
Where were you with literacy as an adolescent?
I was on track with my peers in literacy, but did not care for it. I have always been a slow reader. Six books in 8 weeks kind of turns my stomach a bit.
What was the literacy expected by your teachers?
My teachers taught the classics. Nothing was that cutting edge. I remember some writing projects being short stories or poems/sonnets.
Did this literacy support your literate practices in later life? Why? Why not? No. I data dumped a lot of my English learning as I was not fond of it. Sorry Dr. Steffes.
I would have to agree, 6 books in 8 weeks is a bit intimidating. I hope that when our students look back at what we taught them, they can say that we made it enjoyable, encouraged them to read and write about things that interested them, and set them off on a life long journey of reading and learning.
ReplyDeleteBrittany,
ReplyDeleteI agree. As I have talked with some of my peers about my intentions to teach they encourage and applaud me for doing so. The reason I bring that up is the common conversation of "... you'll be a great teacher. Kids won't forget you." It seems as though the people I speak with that do not remember their educators do not have the best experiences to share from their formidable school years. Positive impact, even a stern, but supportive impact, would leave a lasting impression that students can reflect on to take pride in their educational efforts and experiences.
I also have to agree that 6 books, which does not include our textbooks, so really we have 8 books to read in 8 weeks. Hopefully, we can find a few books that are only 200 pages. I am grateful that a good list of books was provided, because I would be lost figuring out what I would really like to read.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. I have two other EDUC lasses this semester as well. I feel that if I don't have a book in my hand I am behind already. Hahaha
DeleteLOL, I am not offended! I love your (brutal) honesty. I want us to change the world and the reading habits of the citizens in it! Think how much could be accomplished if we were reading instead of fighting!
ReplyDeleteHahaha... The we would have literary know it alls dragging us into world stage debates. Probably still turn to war over opinions instead of beliefs.
DeleteBut seriously, I think connecting with struggling readers through our own experiences may help as well.
We read a lot of "classics" also. I always wondered why they were so revered. I am terrified of reading 6 books in 8 weeks, plus the textbooks. Hopefully I can keep up!
ReplyDelete-Darrien
I was laughing when I read that your stomach turned when you thought about reading 6 books in 8 weeks, because I was feeling the same way. I see Darrien is thinking the same thing, but I bet we all can do it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the encouragement Amy! I believe we can push through it; just have to stay flexible on the priorities I guess.
ReplyDelete------
Darrien, we can make it happen. Just have to keep our lists motivating and interesting toward our interests. I might have to change a couple of my books to keep me reading as well!