Friday, September 3, 2010
Case Study One
Choose to discuss either Keisha or Marvin's story. Describe your thoughts as a teacher. How would you meet the needs of one of these students. How would you engage him/her as a student in your classroom. List two ideas you feel are important to know after reading one of the interviews. *Don't forget you MUST respond to at least two other posts. Be honest! We are building a learning community and honest feedback is important.
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(Marvin) I as a teacher don't believe in Marvin's motto of "Let me just sleep in class and I won't bother you" because I am here to educate not let you have a vacation. I love that Mrs. Clanton was different than the past teachers, she actually lived up to the title of teacher because she wanted to "reach and teach him". Marvin seemed to gain a "high" off being complimented and doing exciting things, so as Mrs. Clanton did I would always try to keep things new and fresh such as projects, field trips and other hands on activities and compliment when he did well and encourage when he has down falls. The two ideas I feel are important from the interview is his answer to the question "who is your favorite teacher?why?" because he saw one of his teachers in the stands at his football game. Many teachers don't think kids notice things like that but they do and it shows that we care and are taking interest in what they like and in return they will do what we like such as study for our upcoming test like Marvin did. "How do you feel about your principal and vice principals?" He said if it weren't for his coach they would've put him in the alternative school. I believe all most students want is somebody to listen to them and understand them, especially when they come from a background like Marvin's where they come from a single parent home and the parent is always working to provide;they just need attention and it seems like the principals weren't trying to do either. (Angela Wilson)
ReplyDelete(Keisha)As a future teacher, I strive to have my elementary school students feel the same way that Keisha felt about elementary school. I want my students, like Keisha, to enjoy coming to school. I want them to like that fact that we are on a schedule and they always know what to expect. I also want to help students who felt like Keisha felt in middle school. With all the changes that are being made in the school systems, there will probably be many students who do not attend their neighborhood school but I want them to feel like that is their school. I have always seen school as a special place where you learn new things and you forget about the problems that you may have at home and that is what I want to do for my future students. One way that I plan to meet the needs of my students is by making sure they know that school is a "safe place". By the term "safe place" I mean that for the 7 hours that they are with me everyday I want them to be a kid and have no worries. I want them to know that once you enter the classroom your only responsibility is to learn. Another thing that I will do to meet my students needs is find out what is going on with them. I will have them keep journals that are personal and where they can talk about anything. One of the things that I think is important from this interview is when Keisha says that her school is too crowded and there are too many fights. I think this is important because many schools are overpopulated, and since teachers cannot change that factor I can change the control factor. I can make sure that I always have control of my class and keep them safe. Another thing that I think is important about this interview is when Keisha says that students deal with so much outside of school, and when they come to school they want respect, structure, and consistency. I think that these are three things that teachers need to give students no matter what. I also think this is important because I know what it is like to not receive respect, consistency, and structure from a teacher, and I think I disliked those classes the most. I want to be the teacher that my students cannot wait to see.(Courtney Fudge)
ReplyDeleteI agree with Angela when she said that sleeping in class is not an option. When students come to school they are there to learn. She had a valid point when she said that it is important that teachers show they care about the students. If the student feels that the teacher cares they are more likely to show more effort when they come to school.
ReplyDeleteI chose the story about Keisha. I think it was good that Keisha felt safe and loved at her Elementary School. This goes to show that teachers do play an important role in their students lives. Its natural that has students move on to higher grades that they may be a little uncomfortable at first but eventually they will adjust to the changes.This story also lets me know that just because a child has matured some doesn't mean they don't need to securtiy.Theres really not much a teacher can do about a school being crowded but as for as the fighting and profanity goes it can be solved. In order to prevent the profanity and fighting they should probably have more teachers and securtiy patrolling the school.I would try to meet Keisha needs by showing that I really cared about her and her education. I would engage my students in class by finding out what they liked ad use it in the lesson. Having them come to the board could also be benefical. Overall, it is important to show the students that you care about them, their education, safety, and to make the lesson fun.
ReplyDeleteI really liked Courtney thoughts about Keisha. It is important that the student feels safe and is shown respect. I liked when she said that the 7 hours the student is in her class they will feel like a kid and have no worries. We as teachers do not know what is going on in a childs home therefore the journals are a good idea. They give the student a chance to express themselves. Courtney was right when she said some schools are over crowded but theres nothing a teacher can do about that. I also agree with her when she said that structure was important. Stucture is needed in every class because that is the only way you can teach.
ReplyDeleteLaShonda I think your comments about Courtney's post are thoughtful and "right on the money".
ReplyDeleteAngela, I agree, it is vital that students feel loved and cared for by their teachers and the administration as well, after all it takes a village.
ReplyDelete( Keisha) Wow this one was pretty interesting, to see that Keisha actually started out with a positive attitude toward school elementary school offered an escape for Keisha she enjoyed and respected her teachers they were people from her neighborhood. However, Keisha’s views drastically changed by the time she reached high school. It sounds like Keisha is a good student who is not given the chance to shine. There are no real opportunities or activities to keep Keisha engaged and excited about learning. Keisha’s school environment is even becoming increasingly worst then her home environment leaving Keisha no place she can truly thrive. I found myself becoming quite upset reading the question answer portion because i can visualize this child enthusiastic about learning having that stripped away leaving her completely jaded. Hardly any one is showing Keisha that they care and the environment is cold and uninteresting. As a teacher I would make my classroom environment a completely different world if I had to in an effort to keep the students excited bringing in new activities and projects my students could relate to and feel proud of when completed. I feel we (teachers) owe it to the students to offer at least an environment that is safe and a lesson plan that is infused with a combination of activities that help students learn in a variety of ways.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Courtney on respect, consistency and structure. If you don't show respect to kids they won't respect you which creates a chaotic enviroment and doesn't help the learning process. Even if a child doesn't show it, they always wants someone who "has their back" and will tell them right from wrong which is where consistency and structure come into play. I like that Courtney.
ReplyDeleteFudge, I would feel completely at ease if my son was in your class I believe that you would offer that safe place for your students. I agree that this love is needed of every teacher, just being available and showing a student that someone cares makes a difference.
ReplyDelete(Keisha) My thoughts about Keisha’s story leaned on both sides: I was happy and grateful that she had such wonderful memories about her elementary school years. One thing that she pointed out was that her kindergarten teacher “was warm and loving,” and that, in elementary school, she and the other children “felt the love and concern the teachers and others had for them.” Those are necessary things that students, especially at that age, need to be able to feel; this stage in their life, they need to be able to trust in people who wouldn’t intentionally lead them astray and are there for their well-being. Keisha clearly received this while in elementary school, despite the fact that outside forces (her mother’s situation) seemed to cloud her mind. On the opposite side, I was distraught when reading about her experience in middle school. You could see that she started to lose all hope during these years, and the contributing factor was the environment that she was in. Not only were her classmates disruptive and violent, but the teachers didn’t care about anything that concerned them. There was only one teacher there for Keisha and the other students by the name of Ms. Logan. Every student needs a teacher such as her, because, sometimes, one teacher could be that driving force that enables students to take the extra steps toward their future. If I was to have a student such as Keisha in my classroom, I would make sure that I provide her, as well as the other students, with an environment that was full of love and compassion, because they may not be able to get this at home. Even if students do get that at home, they will still need to know and understand that there are other people who care about them and about what they want to do so, that way, when they are older, they can think back and reflect on all the people who truly were there for them, and not just for academic purposes. You have to take it to another level with students. From this interview, it’s important to remember that the principal/vice principal may not always be there for the student(s), and that’s why it’s up to the teacher to have that connection with their superiors so that, in the case that the teacher does not have the resources to help that student, they can go to them for additional help. Also, if the students do not feel safe in the classroom, where can they feel safe? It’s up to the teacher, as well as all other faculty/staff, to ensure that every last student not only have an environment in which they can learn, but that it’s safe as well.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry. Musicbyrd89 is Danje' Morris
ReplyDeleteI choose the case study Keisha because I want to be a teacher that implements strategies like Ms. Logan used to make a difference in the lives of students like Keisha each and everyday. In the case study when Keisha said, "That's the first time since I started school that I saw my name on the wall with an A next to it." I believe this was so powerful because of the self fulfilling prophecy. I believe teachers can influence students self esteem positively and negatively. Teachers have a powerful voice in their students lives and can use this voice to speak words of affirmation and encouragement. I want to be equipped with many strategies that no student would leave my classroom without fulfilling their full potential. I also believe that teachers can play an important part in helping students believe I can do it because someone believes in me. It is human nature to want to be affirmed and to affirmed by someone you respect and admire can be life changing to a student. Teachers model all day why not be instumental in modeling words of affirmation and using strategies to build students up because you may be the only one in their life to do so. I plan to meet the needs of my students and engage them in the classroom by providing an organized environment that is rich with manipulatives and centers that are constantly changing that keep them excited and motivated about learning. I learned from Keisha's interview to daily provide my students with respect, structure, and consistency.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Courtney. It's so important that students feel safe in the classroom and that there is structure and consistency within that said classroom. That's truly the strong foundation that's needed for every student. Also, I love your idea about having the students write in journals!! It seems like a simple activity, but it can make a difference, especially for troubled teens, because some of them just need someone to listen or read their story, and that would be an awesome way to do so. Prime example would be the movie, Freedom Writers, which is one of my favorite movies. It showed that one teacher whom students grew to love, and that teacher went out of her way many times to ensure that her students were given what they needed, and one of her methods to get them to respect her and for her to understand them was to have them tell their stories in journal writing. Wonderful way to connect to the students!! (Danje' Morris)
ReplyDeleteKeisha's story is one that can be seen in the schools that we go for feild experience. Once a child gets out of their comfort zone if they don’t get the reassurance that they are in a safe compassionate place the students can thrive in we start to loose them. These children need the teacher to be a teacher first and that feels like the teacher really cares then they are more likely to reach for excellences as teacher I want to try and find ways to reach and engage all my students. The teacher is a parent to 15 to 25 students for nine months every year we need to be sensitive to each child and try to become aware of their individually unique situations. It has been proven that if we don’t grab these children’s interest by third grade we can watch a tangible loss of participation and disciplinary problems. Keisha’s teacher, Ms. Logan, uses a technique that I am going to use to promote excitement the first day. The explanation that everyone had an (A) and that the student could have that a when report cards came out if you work hard. The concept, while simple is a brilliant Motivational tool. Seeing your name with an A next to it can be addictive.
ReplyDeleteTina, you have the right attitude for the difficult but personally rewarding road ahead of you. the use of the "A" when you see your name is something that some children might not have seen till then. A professor likes to tell us of when he was a child and one of his most vivid memories was seeing some of his fellow with a long row of stars and only two by his and how that hurt, and when he asked the teacher why she didn’t have time for him. Something I see in Tina is, Ms. Logan, someone who truly cares about every child.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you LaTonya having a child that enjoys elementary school but then gets to middle school and gets lost in middle school because of overcrowding or lack of teacher involvement is a crime. The key is to keep the child interested in what is going on in class and going that extra mile that I see LaTonya going for her kids.
ReplyDeleteI also wanted to say after reading the posted blogs, and from my previous experiences with the students in this class, that I am truly honored to be learning beside and from each of you!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeffrey, especially about the fact that teachers are parents to about 15-25 students for nine months out of the year. For some students, they are a parent, a doctor, a counselor, a motivator, and much more, and that's why it's important to grab their attention from the start. Also, I agree that giving every student and A from the beginning is a motivational tool. If one teacher was to do that in the beginning of the year, than, the next year, even if that teacher doesn't say that everyone has an A in the beginning, that student will start have that mentality that they started strong in the beginning and that they must continue to do well throughout the year. (Danje' Morris)
ReplyDeleteI chose the case study on Kesha because as a future educucator I want to feel as though i've made a difference in a child's life. Kesha was a student with a lot of disadvantages and faced a number of different things at home, she also went to school everyday with worries of how her mom was doing at home. Kesha also said that she remember her elementary teacher besause she seemed as if she cared about Kesha and her other classmates. Kesha was a child looking for love and for someone to give her a little push so she can feel that she can excel in learning.As a future educator I want children to feel that I care about them not only as a student but as my own child I want my stidents to feel as if i've had some impact on their lives and I want them to always remember me (Brittany Miller)
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeffrey, yes indeed the teacher will lose students if they feel as if their teacher don't care if they learn the materials or not. Yes, teachers have many roles and parenting may be the biggest one and im glad you pointed that out.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Tina on keeping the children engaged and changing the centers so the children will I guess never get bored because learning should be fun and its the teachers responsibilty to try and encorporate fun things in everyday activities in their classrooms.
ReplyDeleteI can relate to Keisha character because growing up at home being that my family is from a different culture there were ample activities I wasn’t able to participate in or at times go outside and play with the neighborhood kids. My parents didn’t have an understanding of the American system so the best thing for them to keep me out of trouble was to stay in the house. Going to school was the only kind of fun I had besides going to a cousin house for a weekend once a blue mood. All of that changed when my parents moved me from a public school to a private school. I hated the private school with a passion the teachers weren’t caring nor respectful.
ReplyDeleteKeisha stated going to school while other children seemed happy all the time was difficult for her because putting a smile on her face was hard for her to do, but Ms. Logan was able to make her feel as the smartest student. It is teachers like Ms. Logan the school system needs, if we as teacher candidates aren’t able to achieve those roles then we don’t need to be teachers. As Ms. Logan did for Keisha we must go out of our way to make sure all of our students understand what we teach. Making each individual feel smart, safe and special in their own kind way. I plan on being an inspiration to my student s as my third and fourth grade teacher did for me. It was her that inspired me to become a teacher. She was an amazing teacher, she was just fairness was what she went by in her classroom. She treated everyone the same whether you were poor or rich, pretty or ugly, or smart or not. No one had special privilege just because they were smart. Children learn because we as teachers care. If we don’t show them that we care then they will to not care of learning.
As a future educator, My thoughts on Keisha and the way her teacher handled things stood out the most to me. I would use the same method that Ms. Logan use when she said that every sudent has an "A". I want each student to feel like there is nothing that they cannot do or accomplish! Keisha said that Ms. Logan made learning fun in ninth grade. That goes to show that the "fun" part in learning never gets old. I will keep my students engaged and interested in learning rather than just teaching and moving on to the next thing. I will make sure my students feel safe and at home because they truely spend more time at school than they do at home, and that is when the parenting also takes place in the student-teacher relationship. The two ideas that stood out the most to me and what I want to remember when I actually get into my classroom is Keisha's last response to the last question. When asked what are three most important things ALL teachrs should know and she answered and said most students do want to learn and she said student need respect, structure, and consistency. I will make sure I always give my students respect. My classroom will have organization, and structure. Lastly, consistency is a requirement. You can not just start something at the start of the school year and stop in the middle of the year because as we all saw students pay attention to the small things. The small things to us are the big things to them. The small things make the big difference!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeffery about us being the teacher, the parent, and in some cases all of the community helpers ( nurse, doctor, etc.) School is an escape to some students, and we need to make sure that it is a good escape not just a daycare.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeffery that we are parents to our students being that we spend seven hours with them each day. To some children we are the only form of adult that cares and that comes encounter with, so in between those seven hours they are in our presence we must treat them like our own children with respect and love. I don’t like the grade chart of everyone grades being in eye sight for the whole class to see. Reason being I think every children grade is confidential. I say that because not everyone in the class will have an A or B, those that have lower grades are at risk of being teased and bulled.
ReplyDeleteBrittany you said something that I always say, and it is actualy the reason I chose tis major. I want to make a difference, and I want to be the reason that a child enjoys learning. Students go through alot before they walk through those school doors. s Brittany stated they ave many disadvantages like Keisha did in the case study. From single parent homes, to drug, and abuse, we just don't really know. We have to make those seven to eight hours that they are with us the best, and sometimes we have to put in more time than that, but as long as a change is being made I don't mind!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Tina with using different strategies to enhance our knowledge as well as our students. Strategies are deliberate and goal-directed, in other words, students must consciously decide to employ a particular strategy in order to construct meaning from a text. For instance reading strategies are what teachers/students use when they know they have a problem with understanding and how they encounter these problems once they are being approached. Reader stopped to reflect what complexity has occurred, by doing so he/she has made a conscious choice as to what strategy is needed to comprehend the text.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeffery on "The teacher is a parent to 15 to 25 students for nine months every year we need to be sensitive to each child and try to become aware of their individually unique situations. It has been proven that if we don’t grab these children’s interest by third grade we can watch a tangible loss of participation and disciplinary problems."
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statement Courtney about students that their "only responsibility is to learn". Students can come from environments with so many responsibilities placed on them at an early age. The classroom has to be a safe haven that students can look forward to coming each and everyday no matter what their circumstances are outside of the classroom. They can come and learn to prepare themselves for a future that is bright and full of hope and promise.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Brittany's statement "I want to feel as though I've made a difference in a childs life". I believe everyone has a purpose in life and some peoples purpose is to help others achieve theirs. I believe skilled teachers do this each and everyday. They see the potential in each child and help them to achieve it. I also believe that once a child leaves your classroom. They don't leave your life. From the moment a child is on your roster, they then become part of your lifes purpose to make sure if no one else does. You will be there to help them achieve their goals and purpose in life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both Brittany and Irene. Keisha was like so many children today. Single family homes and one of many children in the house hold. Just as Irene, I was always kept in the house after I got home from school. Growing up in New York, there were just to many negative things to get into so my parents way of protection was keeping me in the house. LIke Keisha, TV was my escape as well. I never had any real role models to look up to until I moved south. Whatever looked successful on television was what I wanted. I was one of the few children that I knew, that actually loved to go to school. I found comfort there and that was my only freedom. I really related a lot to keisha, many of her interview answers would have been my own.
ReplyDeleteMarvin- I think that Marvin was a tough case. I do believe that he would have just slept had his teacher allowed him to. I was kind of sad to see that he made it all the way to the 8th grade without being reached in any way. Mrs. Clanton used the oldest trick in the book on Marvin. I think some call it reverse psychology. She made Marvin believe that he was smart. He believed her., which led him to do better in other things. Then when he met Coach Anderson, it just made things better. He was a male role model that he needed in his life. The coach became his deciding factor in many of his decisions. To me, a male role model is the best thing for any young person. Now that Marvin has made a connection with other people, I think the next best thing for him to do is be a role model for another young person. The most important things that I learned after reading is that teachers need to make positive connections with students and get to know them well beyond the classroom. I think a role model outside of the classroom is always a good thing for any student to encounter.
ReplyDeleteKeisha's story enlightened me on the big changes and encounters that students can have between elementary school and middle school. I didn't realize how students think about elementary school experiences once they get to middle school, because they are so anxious to go to "big school". Her story also keeps me motivated to have that impact on students by having more of a classroom structure. Sometimes it seems that when a teacher is firm and consistent, students think the teacher is mean or doesn't want them to do anything in class. However, I appreciated the fact that Keisha wanted structure. That encourages me as a teacher to maintain consistent structure in my classroom, because students do appreciate it, in the end. I was surprised at her concern about the profanity and fights at her school, because some kids don't care. But it seems to me that she tries to uphold a standard at school and she is not all about blending in with the majority.
ReplyDeleteMslovlie, I thought it was interesting to see that you thought that Mrs. Clanton "made Marvin believe he was smart". I think she was helping him believe in himself and apply himself, because every child is smart in their own way. Moreover, if a child believes in him/herself and is encouraged along the way, they will rise to our(teachers) expectation and excel. It's our job, as teachers, to know our students and the best way they learn so we can actively incorporate that style in our instruction; so all our children can leave our class having learned something. I would feel ineffective as a teacher if ALL of my students haven't left my class talking about at least one experience or encounter we had from a lesson that I taught in class. A teacher's job is to leave a lasting impression, not a passing impression.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Lashonda in the fact that she would find out what the students liked and enjoyed doing so it could be incorporated in the classroom and learning can be fun. If a student has something in school that relates to life skills, home life, or something they enjoy doing, they would be more inclined to be interested in what teachers would have to say. There is also nothing we can do about the overcrowding of schools and fighting, but we don't have to tolerate profanity or fighting in our classroom. I would also want to get to know my students on a personal level, so they will feel like I care and that I am concerned about them even when they are not at school. It is a cliche' but students don't care how much you know until they know you care.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOf the two interviews, Marvin’s story struck me as being most interesting because he is the epitome of many “problem” students in our classrooms. Similar to many students who show little regard to classroom rules and regulations, Marvin’s main objective was to capture the attention of the adult. According to the author, as stated in Marvin’s biography, Marvin was the middle child of four siblings and his mother spent many hours working two jobs to provide for the household. Because of the many hours Marvin’s mother spent at work, it may have been difficult for her to give him the adequate attention he desired. Given this information, it is possible that Marvin felt ignored at home and because of this, he became disruptive at school in order to get attention from his teachers and perhaps mother as well.
ReplyDeleteAs an educator, I would meet Marvin’s needs by using positive reinforcement to encourage his good behavior and decrease the chances of him displaying unacceptable behavior. According to the author, the positive student-teacher relationship changed the way Marvin viewed school and himself. For instance, Mrs. Clanton made Marvin feel smart and this made him want to be smart. The positive reinforcement made Marvin want to impress his teacher. He wanted her to think was a smart student who was able to make good decisions.
I would engage students like Marvin in daily classroom activities by setting high behavior expectations and goals for them. As did Marvin’s teachers, I would make the goals realistic and achievable. For instance, if Marvin finished all his assignments in class, I would give him a no-homework pass. I would try various strategies to get the desired behavior from students like Marvin.
After reading Marvin’s story, I feel it is important that student receive lots of praise and encouraging because it helps boost their self-esteem. After raising their esteem, we must encourage them to take charge of their futures. Educators must believe that students will rise beyond expected levels. Another idea I feel is important is that educators must reach students where they are in order to get them to where they want them to be. We must be sensitive to the various backgrounds in which our students come from and, at times, be willing to adjust our instruction to reach these students so that students can achieve their goals.
In response to Tina Green,
ReplyDeleteIn Keisha’s biography, the author noted that Keisha said that she chose which teachers to listen to and which ones she would ignore. It is my belief that educators must teach students to work hard because it affects their future, instead of working hard because they like their teacher. Yes, words of affirmation and using strategies to build students up are good strategies, but do they really helping the student become an independent individual who takes charge of her dreams instead of relying on someone to encourage her? True, many people want to be encouraged by someone they admire but students need to learn to possess courage. They must learn to keep moving forward even when there is no one there to encourage them. In dealing with a student like Keisha, I would help her to learn to stay focused on her goals and develop strategies to help overcome obstacles.
In response to Irene,
ReplyDeleteKeisha said that she rarely smiled and she liked going to school because everyone seemed happy. Maybe one reason that Keisha rarely smiled was that she had a problem with giving respect to authoritative figures. I feel that educators should be sensitive to the students’ backgrounds without compromising their standards by upholding students’ bad habits. I feel Keisha should be taught habits that will make her a successful adult so that her children will not have to re-live Keisha’s childhood. We do not want students like Keisha to develop the learned helplessness state of mind, which implies feeling sorry for oneself. Keisha indicated that she liked going to school because everyone seemed happy this indicates that happiness is something that Keisha wants for herself. This is the motivation needed to push Keisha toward seeking a lifestyle that will bring happiness to her in the future. Students like Keisha should be motivated to value their education because that is what is needed to receive a desirable lifestyle.
The case I choice was Marvin. Here is a young child who has been going to school probably starting at preschool and has just been past from grade to grade with no one to really take an interest in him as a person. Whether he had behavior problems or not he was a child that needed some positive attention and not one teacher gave him the time of day until he got to eighth grade. This is a concern with me because as a future teacher of young minds I would want to take the time to make sure my students are happy and feel safe while they are in my care because for many that determines how well they will learn. Children who bring there problems to school can not learn until they fill the problem is under control. Marvin had a concern that many would not think was a problem. His mother was a single mom and worked more than forty hours just to make ends meet. Marvin needed some guidance at home and because he didn't Marvin took what he did at home and brought it to school. None of the teachers wanted to be bothered with his attitude and so rather then find out what was going on or trying to be-friend him allowing hime to feel like he was important to them they passed him on and labled him as a trouble maker. Marvin's take on school authorities, (teachers, principles and vice-principles) was such that if they didn't care about him, he didn't care about them. I would feel that way too if no one took a personal interest in me.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Courtney Porter
ReplyDeleteI like the fact that you see the importance of structure in a classroom but don't let structure be your only focus. Keisha also like the fact the her teacher Ms. Logan was more concerned with whether or not her students had an understanding of what was taught over test scores. Many teachers tilt the bar to much to one side and loose many of their students because of the unbalance. Teachers should try to keep a balance in the classroom so their students have the best learning experience possible.
I agree with Angela's statement about not believeing in Marvin's motto. Sleeping in class is unacceptable. You go to school to learn, not to sleep in class. If you sleep in class how will you obtain any knowledge? However like Angela said its important that teachers show the students they care. As teachers, we need to develop good relationships with our students because to some of them, we will be all they have.-Jasmine Bender
ReplyDeleteIn response to mslovie
ReplyDeleteThat is such a great observation. We have many teachers and educators, but when you find a male teacher who takes a personal interest, in a positive caring way, to a young male child you see a big change in that child's life. For many single parent mom's who are rasing male children this is a benefit that will change that child's life for the good. So instead of having a possible problem child you have a young man who has someone to look up to and for that it could mean the difference between life or death.
I also agree with Jeffrey about teachers being parents to their students. To some students, us educators will be all some of them will have. Being a teacher is not an easy job in this day and age. Like Danja said, we will be nurses, role modles, counselors and everything else. Im going to be the type of teacher who's willing to do any and everything for my students because I want them to know if nobody else cares I will.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete(Marvin) Aftering reading the first two chapters of "A Student's Perspective",Marvin is the student that stuck out to me the most. Marvin reminded me a lot of myself as a young boy. In August 2002, I had lost all interest in school. I found myself being very defiant and reluctant to do anything people asked of me. I think this had a lot to do with with me not having a father figure at home. Mr Khan, my mathematics teacher, explained how important I was in today's society. He saw something in me that I couldn't see in myself. Mr. Khan understood me and wanted me to set goals that I could actually meet. I soon realize me having a nasty and nonchalant attitude was only hurting me. Thanks to him, I improved my grades and overall personality as well. I really appreciate him for not giving up on me and helping me become a more studious and productive student.
ReplyDeleteTheir are many student's in the school system that are capable of being leaders but that they just need that extra push from their teacher or administration. Most kids never reach their full potential in life because they are not recieving any guidance at home due to their parent being busy, not in their life, or dead. Talkng to kids makes all the difference.Most kids just need someone to talk to,confide in or maybe a shoulder to lean on. You cant teach a child until they know that you care.
In response to mswilson88
ReplyDeleteI most definitely agree with you as far as keeping the students interested and not letting them do as they please. Your number one priority is to teach your students and you shouldn't rest until that has been done. Every child learns differently and at different paces, so it vital to have new innovative ideas and teaching approaches to tailor to all your students and their needs.
In responce to Mellissa C
ReplyDeleteI agree. Taking the time to make sure students are enjoying the learning process, and that they feel comfortable and secure is very important. A child must feel safe and loved in order for them to reach their full potential in the classroom. As a teacher, I will strive to make my classroom feel warm and inviting so what each students feels as though they have a role as a member of the class. This will ensure that learning can occur.
[Marvin] It appears to me that Marvin developed a theory that all teachers would pass their students if the students would make their job easier by remaining quiet. That is where I believe Marvin came to the conclusion that if he slept during class hours, therefore causing no behavior problems, teachers were going to pass him automatically. That is until he met a teacher that actually cared for his behavior and used it to enhance his interest in school. His teacher knew previous teachers lost his interest so her strategy set Marvin on weekly goals she knew he could achieve, soon after advancing those goals resulting in Marvin gaining higher performance skills and catching up with his classmates. From a teachers perspective I believe it is important for all educators to monitor their students giving each student individual goals, therefore boosting their confidence allowing them time to gain a positive interest in their work. Through this process you are able to develop a rewarding relationship with your students. Marvin also did not have anybody in his life to give him attention. He was able to develop a fatherly bond with his coach gaining attention, authority and guidance. Two ideas I feel are important is to know that giving students individual goals can make a difference in the way a child gains knowledge and the idea that a teacher showing interest makes a great impact on a child’s life in school and out of school.
ReplyDeleteBoth stories were interesting and I related to them both in different ways. As a teacher I would strive to be more like Coach Anderson and Mrs. Clanton. They both showed the students that they cared about their education as well as their lives in general. I don’t blame Marvin for creating the motto "Let me just sleep in class and I won't bother you". I blame past educators and the environment. Marvin didn’t come up with that on his own, he was reared into believing this. Teachers have the responsibility to make sure their student obtain the knowledge that he/or she need at a certain grade level, and to protect their students from harm. Due to the fact that Marvin grew up in a single parent home and his mother worked all the time, he was able to make his own decisions as far as what to do during his spare time. This means that a lot of what was goin on in his life was unstructured. The key to success is structure. If there’s no structure there is nothing. When Marvin mention that he wanted to become a pro football player and buy his momma a new house and tell her to quit her jobs was touching to me. Because that one comment tells you that he had a dream. Who can be there to listen to his dreams and tell him that you can do whatever you want to do? You may not become a football player but you sure can go to college and become a doctor or a lawyer. I also feel his emotions when he answered to how he felt about his principals. I feel like there shouldn’t been no reason for him or anyone else to describe their principals or person in charge of the school in the way he did. Lastly, Marvin said that teachers don’t know what students have on their mind. This is so true, but as a future educator I, as well as others, should always display positive attitudes. A teacher may not know what’s going on with a student at all time but they can always keep their students encouraged to keep moving forward in school and with situations outside of school.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Courtney...
ReplyDeleteI also believe that schools should provide a safe enviroment to children. From recent experiences many of us know that in some cases school as well can be dangerous. I believe as well that future educators and present educators should provide a stress and worry free environment to their students therefore allowing students to absorb as much knowledge being present.
I agree with Irish, in why Marvin probably came up with that motto, it wasn't his fault, it was the teachers fault for rearing him into believing this. I also agree with giving students weekly goals, because if your not working towards something, what are you working for? a child has to know why he needs to learn and if he learns it how will it benefit him.
ReplyDeleteKiesha- As a furture educator of young students such as Kiesha, this case study touched me. This case study not only touched me emotionally, it also touched professionally. To hear a student admire a teacher and speak about the teacher's dedication inspires me. All teachers should make students feel as if they are capable of learning any and everything they want to if they try. Ms. Logan was protrayed in the case study as great teacher who seemed to be dedicated to her students' needs.I would try to engage students with a lot hands-on activites and field trips if the funds are in the budget. Kiesha and other students like her might not get the opportunity to see place and culture otherwise. These students would greatly benefit from activites such as these. Students also need to feel trust or safe with a teacher to help build a relationship because you never know what a student is thinking or what they are going through.
ReplyDeleteIn response to manchesrico...
ReplyDeleteYou are right, teachers should always display positive attitudes to their students. You have a great point a teacher may not know what is going on with a student at all times BUT we as educators can keep our students encouraged and motivated for success. Problems arise when students begin to believe teachers do not care, that is displayed through negative modeling instructin. Educators should be able to give each child at some point of instruction recognizable attention to all their students, threfore gaining respect, developing personal bonds and capturing their interst.
I also agree with Irene, with the comparisons you made with your life and keisha's life. Very interesting. i know of a lot of friends who been in same situations. However they had teachers like Mrs. Logan and they were able to try adapting to the new environment. I also feel like if Keisha was that uncomfortable, her mom should have stepped in somewhere and had a talk with the school administrators. yes this is about how do i feel as a teacher but sometimes i have to ask myself how do i feel as a parent, because if i was in this situation, my mom would have fixed things if the teachers weren't acting right. i want my future classroom to be fun and memorable in a good way not a bad way.
ReplyDeleteIn responce to Brittany M
ReplyDeleteI too think that it is very important to make difference in a child's life. Knowing each student and being understanding and supportive of them, gains trust and admiration, and allows a child to open up to you.
"I've come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. As a teacher I posses a tremendous power to make a child's life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In ALL situations it is my response that will decide whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated and a child humanized or de-humanized." Dr. Hiam Ginott in Teacher and Child
We all have the power to react positively or negatively in any situation. When it comes to raising children the choice of reaction is more important than when we are dealing with adults, as our choice will forever be a part of the development of that child.
(Marvin) As a future educator, it’s sad to know that a fellow educator would just pass a child while knowing the importance of school. In Marvin’s case his motto of “Let Me Just Sleep in Class” was all wrong. Anyone who works with children could see the evidence that something is wrong with this child. The approach Mrs. Clanton took to getting Marvin’s attention worked, she was no longer a teacher to him, but she became an important figure in his life. In order to engage Marvin as a student I would ask him to stay behind and help out with little things around the classroom, and I would also find out what he likes. I would also try to get him more involved by having interesting and fun hands on activities and friendly competition. I really loved the way Mrs. Clanton would whisper in his ear “You’re so smart”, as a teacher I’m going to adopt that. I was touch when he wanted to pass Mrs. Simmons social studies test just because she showed up to his game. The Coach, well I just fell in love with him, not only did he care about Marvin, but he went as far as showing love for his younger brother. I really respect the way these three teachers’s helped improve his self-esteem in school and learning. If every teacher took on this concept, you could only imagine how different school would be.
ReplyDeleteI Choose Kiesha's story due to the fact that she enjoyed elementary school because the learning enviorment was fun and more engaging. The reationship she formed with her teacher was overwhelming & trustworthy. As educators its important for teachers to form a good realationship with the students for them to feel comfortable in a classroom enviorment as well as outside the classroom. As kiesha entered middle school things begin to change and she didnt like riding the bus across town to attend school with students from different socioeconomic statuses.Her trust wasnt the same as it was in elementary school. Kiesha felt as if her teachers didnt care for her.
ReplyDeleteIn response to mslovlie
ReplyDeleteI truly believe students who grow up without father figures have long term effects with most of them being negative. Students without father figures strive to have some type of attention from male role models.
I agree with Courtney Porter as much as some students complain about the structure, I’m a firm believer that everyone need’s it at some point in their lives. We as teachers need to learn how to help make the transition from elementary, to middle school, to high school and on to college as smooth as possible. This can be an overwhelming experience for a student. Its children like Keisha that keep you (teacher’s) pressing forward, because we all know it’s not the pay check.
ReplyDeleteI agree with mslovlie, Marvin was a tough case. It’s a problem that teacher’s kept passing him one to the next grade without trying to find ways of reaching out to him. I loved Mrs. Clanton reverse psychology; it makes me smile every time I think about it. We need more Coach Anderson in our school to help reach these children that come from a single mother home. I second your statement “role model’s outside the classroom is always a good thing for students”.
My thoughts in response to kiesha's story was the children felt the love of the teachers and how much they were concerned. Kiesha had a great relationship with her teachers and the children that attended the school.However transitioning from elementary to middle school was a big step.
ReplyDeleteKeisha said she liked going to school because everyone seemed happy this shows that happiness is something that Keisha wants and something she look forward to. As a future educator i will make sure my students feel loved & safe inside the classroom as well as outside the classroom. However, Kiesha said Ms.Logan was her favorite teacher because she makes learning fun and she makes sure we understand better.
While reading the excert of Marvin there were many postive aspects of teaching that help him along the way. A prime example is when Ms. Claton used reverse psychology to tell him how smart he was. By doing this she gives him a since of pride and hope. After telling Marvin he was smart repeatedly he began to exceed in her class. The same things goes for Coach Andereson. Coach Anderson took the time to guide and give him praise by showing interest in him. Marvin took pride in this and began to look at him as a father figure. His imagine of Marvin became his main focus in Marvin's life. Coach Anderson became Marvin's mentor who he worked hard to gain his approvement of.
ReplyDeleteKeisha - I loved how Keisha was very enthusiastic about school when she was younger. I believe that all children should feel the same way. Sadly, just like with Keisha, school is an escape for many young children. School is where some children can go to escape the stress that they may have in their home life. Furthermore, I was really impressed at how Keisha could tell the difference between the teachers that actually cared about her from the ones that did not. Some teachers may fail to realize how influential they can be to a child's life. Since teachers never really know what goes on at a child's home, teachers should always do their best to make sure that there classroom is a happy, safe, educational place. Children need to feel secure in any environment. However, I really felt for Keisha when she entered middle school. Her whole outlook on education completely changed. It was disheartening to read that because Keisha seemed like she had so much potential to be successful academically.
ReplyDelete(Marvin) After reading the first two chapters Marvin’s chapter stuck out to me the most. Marvin’s motto of “Let me just sleep in class, and I won’t bother you” would not slide in my classroom because he can stay at home to sleep; you go to school to learn not to sleep. I applaud Mrs. Clanton for living up to her standards as a teacher. Most teachers had given up on him, but she still had faith in him. I believe every teacher should want to reach and teach their students in some way. Mrs. Clanton would walk by Marvin’s desk each day and whisper to Marvin, “You’re so smart.” Teachers may not know it, but the smallest words they may say have a big impact on a child’s life. Children just need someone in their life to motivate them and encourage them when they fall. Coach Anderson was that father figure that Marvin needed in his life. I felt Coach Anderson was his role model. Coach Anderson taught him how to make positive decisions in his life. Children should always have someone in their life that they can look up to. I feel that students just want someone to care, listen, and to understand them. They just need some attention that they may be lacking at home.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Carmin in that children go to school to escape from problems that they may have at home. School should be a happy, safe, and educational environment that children go to learn.
ReplyDeleteI chose Marvin, although he recieved the short end of the stick throughout life, he succeeded. Thanks to Mrs.Clanton, Coach Anderson, and Mrs.Simmons he was shown true love and given hope. Mrs. Clanton was the teacher who made him want to stay awake in class and always instilled in him how smart he was. Coach Anderson was the coach that he look up to and always told him he could do it. Mrs. Simmons was the teacher who showed up and supported him in his football games. By theses three individuals showing and interest in him it made him work harder not only in life but in school.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Angela in that school is not a vacation, but a place for you to learn. Also, it does help for teacher's to care and support their student's. Student's will make an effort to do their work in class if they see a teacher really cares about them.
ReplyDeleteIn response to deneilw: I too believe that it is sad that an educator would just pass a child. However, I disagree with the idea that there was something wrong with him just because he wanted to sleep through his classes. It may have just been that he was academically unmotivated. Therefore, I believe that it is our job as educators to make sure that each child knows what our expectations are, which should not be that it is okay to fall asleep in class. I do agree with the majority of your view points though, especially the one about getting children involved. I believe that is crucial
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tiffany S.: I agree with you that it is important to get children to do hands-on activities. I also agree with your opinion about exposing children to things and places they may have never seen before. I believe that is very important because that may change a child's perspective about their life. In addition, it also does seem like it would be in the best interest of the child for them to have a good relationship with their teacher, especially since the children spend the majority of their days with their teachers.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Tina. Teacher can have a very big impact on a stundents life. Ms. Logan motivivated Kiesha in this case study but many times teachers discourage students and having them thinking negative. Their should be more positive teachers out there that care.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Carmin, I agree with you. Kiesha did seem to have a lot of potential, but we as educator, especially when students are older, need to show students that we care and they can learn anything. Students should never intimindated in a classroom.
ReplyDeleteIn response to irish- I agree with you. All Marvin needed was that little push from his teacher to boost his confidence and show marvin that he could achieve any goal if he put forth the effort. Since Marvin didn't have anybody in his life to give him attention, the fatherly bond he gained with his coach gave him guidance.I feel like Marvins previous teachers didnt care if he succeeded in life. All it took was one teacher who saw all Marvin needed was a little attention, and someone to direct him in the righ path.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Latonya,
ReplyDeleteI agree that next to safety it is very important for students to have some excitement in the classroom. When students start seeing school as an exciting place to go they will love it. I also feel like when it come to Keisha there are activities that she could join to keep her interested in school because there are clubs for smart students so as a teacher we just need to be sure that we inform our students on opportunities that are available to them.
In response to Deneil,
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is really sad for a teacher to just pass a student, but it is reality. Sometimes when teachers are just passing students they are doing it for selfish reasons but other times they are forced by their superiors to just pass certain students so that they can keep their job.I also agree that as teachers we need to give our students structure. As a good teacher if you can provide structure you can help your students learn and that's what I want to do.
Keisha like most children go into school super excited because this is a new place with new people and new adventures. She was a normal child with a little more challenges then other in elementary school but she came out with no problems. from reading this pasage I could tell that her thought process was just a little more advanced then those of her age. But hey that just comes from her being in the environment that she was raised in. Her favorite teacher Ms. Logan showed her that she could really grow up and be more than what life has been dealing her. and as an educator I feel that all students should get that feeling from everyone of their teachers. Teachers play a very important role in students lives whether they know it or not.
ReplyDeleteI read everybodies blog on Keisha. I agree with everyone and how teachers are supposed to make children feel like they have a purpose and like they can do anything. Educators should never demean a student or act as if they dont care. When teachers act that way I dont feel as if they should even be teaching just like Keisha said.
ReplyDeleteI agree with mslovlie, it is sad it took him to get to the 8th grade for a teacher to give him the attention he needed. Mrs.Clanton did use reverse psychology. It was also good that he had a male role model in his life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Irish that Marvin felt that if he slept in class with good behavior, teachers would pass him on. Marvin improved in academics when he realized some people really do care. I also agree that you should have a rewarding relationship with your student.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Irish character helps make teachers special.Some teachers have careless and selfish attitudes. For Marvin to have had the attitude he had and Ms. Clanton still see hope, that says alot about her morals. She saw the treasure through the darkness.
ReplyDeleteI disagree with Jeremy, males who grow up without a father figure sometime grow into successful young man. Although it is things that a father can teach a son that a mother can not. However that does not always effect the childs chances of accomplishing achievements throughout life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with courtney as educators we should make all students feel comfortable. Even in transitioning into middle school. As educators when we come off as being firm the students look at us as being mean,but in actualitiy the teacher has to be firm or the studens will take over.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Canesha...Marvin's story was special and I agree just the simplest words can give life to a child who is already struggling. I view Mrs. Clanton as an extraordinary teacher but shouldn't this be the attitude that all teachers have. I know that we exist in the real world and this is definitely not how things happen but I believe we could turn some children for the better if we would only take on this same attitude.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Tiffany S...I find that many children don't possess the self confidence nor motivation it takes to be successful. That's where we step in as educators and give them that extra boost to do what needs to be done.
ReplyDeleteI am writing on Marvin, who we see here as an 8th grade student who has been passed so many times socially. I personally think 8th grade is far to be accepting of this behavior. He finally awoke and was being motivated. Mrs. Clanton though, disconnected, as he was keeping him awake. The lessons had a full impact on him.
ReplyDeleteShe did modeling for the class and he was inspired. There is no motivation at home, and he spends most hours on the TV and the videos, a recipe for disaster. But here comes Mrs. Clanton and his coach has placed a grasp on his attention. His conscience is awakened.
He is opening and blossoming like a flower much to the delight of his mother. He shared some emotions that I was not aware of. He says some of his teachers act as if they are scared of the students, due to where they are from. He is highly motivated now that he sees the teachers have an interest in his work. Students perform better, I think, when teachers work hard with them and give them some sense of accomplishments, especially in the young group.
If you watch the "Lean on Me", you will find even though the principal was harsh, he ended motivating the teachers, who on turned motivating the students. He learned a tongue lashing lesson from his assistant in the process. Drug pushers were locked out who did not want to be helped. The question is why is this a general consensus is so common? Teachers and students disliking each other? In this situation I would prize myself to be a teacher like Mrs. Clanton providing an exciting learning experience for the students and showing them that I do care for there learning after all it’s the small things that show someone you care.
In response to latonya, my comment on keisha is that all students have some potential. Students learn all different ways some spatial, some visual and so on... I agree when Gardner says we have to pull on those potentials. Keisha had her potentials. she felt safe with those around her in the days. When the environment is hostile, learning goes away, so therefore even in young students we have to assists them in everyway. As a future teacher, I will endeavour to make the classroom enjoyable but making each moments a full teachable moment. I do not like the fact that as she got older, all that was taken away.
ReplyDelete