Week Eleven of Student Teaching

This past week was the beggining of the fourth term, and I think things have started off on the right foot. I started out reminding them about some of my expectations, acaademically and behaviorally. We also soent a few moments going over some of the procedures regarding late work and the like. Then we started a novel which we will be reading called "For One More Day" by Mitch Albom. I also had them write a letter to someone who has influenced them for good. Thanking them for that.

I think that students often need to be reminded about behavior. I think both the student and the teacher can fall into casual habits of letting things go and acting out if the rules are not revisited every once in a while. This book that I'm having them read is an excellent book that deals with important issues that I think can really influence the students. One major theme is alchoholism. I am fairly sure that several of the students in my classes drink already and I think it could be good for them to see how drinking can effect their lives. It also deals with making sure you are spending time and honoring those people who are important to you. Some day they wont be there and you need to take time for those people when they are there.

I think I need to review the rules more often then I am in the future. I think it could seriously benefit my classroom managment. I also plan on using this book if I can get copies of it in my future classroom. I think it is an excellent book for getting the students attention, and I am planning to use it in conjunction with a narrative unit. Get them writing about some of the emotions which they are feeling while reading such an emotional book. I need to go finish unpacking now, we just moved this weekend.