2009 to 2012. That's a long time to let a blog sit idle. I don't know if I will do any better this time, but I plan to try. Tomorrow I issue interims to my second semester students. I have tried a new method of grading which involves giving them only one grade per week for class participation and one for homework. I usually grade every piece (and I still grade each one) as an individual grade, but have found this method a little cumbersome. I am still trying to identify the best way to check the work without wasting valuable class time. Besides, the grades have been terrible. With only two or three assignments each week, the averages can be drastic if a student misses one.
As for my scheduling, I still think I try to shove too much in for the tests. I don't think they know the stories at all when we are done. Part of that is that they don't read them, but on my end it just seems as if we're skimming.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Monday, May 18, 2009
Are we really behind?
Checking out this article tonight: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090518/ap_on_re_us/us_education_trash_talk
I've always said that comparisons of US students to students in foreign countries is flawed. Sure there's stuff we could improve on, but students are learning. No Child Left Behind is a pipe-dream, but the opportunity is there for students who desire to learn and parents who are willing to stress the importance of an education. Frankly, we teachers don't have much say over the close nurture of a parent. If the parent doesn't support it, chances are the student isn't going to try to their potential. For that matter, they probably won't work to their potential if their parents do stress it. Life in America is too easy, and until we have to struggle, it is my belief that things won't change much in this country.
My opinion for what it's worth.
I've always said that comparisons of US students to students in foreign countries is flawed. Sure there's stuff we could improve on, but students are learning. No Child Left Behind is a pipe-dream, but the opportunity is there for students who desire to learn and parents who are willing to stress the importance of an education. Frankly, we teachers don't have much say over the close nurture of a parent. If the parent doesn't support it, chances are the student isn't going to try to their potential. For that matter, they probably won't work to their potential if their parents do stress it. Life in America is too easy, and until we have to struggle, it is my belief that things won't change much in this country.
My opinion for what it's worth.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Teaching with Rap
I just found a really cool site with rap and r&b music that can help students learn basic concepts of curriculum such as math, English, science, and social studies. Some of the songs are lame in their musical delivery (think bad 80's rap by Vanilla Ice wannabes), but all of the songs are full of good information. Take a listen. Some are better than others. The site says you can buy the albums from iTunes, but I couldn't find them. The price on the site is $19.98 per album and $49.98 (i think) for all four. A little pricey, but worth it if you can find a use for it and help your kids learn these concepts through catchy songs. Here is a YouTube video version for memorizing the 44 Presidents of the U.S.A.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
I am depressed to hear
I am depressed to hear on the news that one of my former students is a suspect in a shooting here in Sumter. I can't say I'm surprised, though.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
I had lunch with a
I had lunch with a fellow teacher today who made me feel really good. It seems I am more of mentor than his mentor is.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Even teachers can't get it
Even teachers can't get it together sometimes. Our book club project only had half of the sections ready.
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