Teachers always feel the need to cover everything in the book. State standards, end of course assessment exams, and administration place fear in the minds of so many teachers (especially math teachers)! Palmer recognized the need for student voice. I could picture the tension in the room with 150 students, and I know it is easier for a teacher to talk for an hour rather than allow students to respond and ask questions. Plus, there is always the fear of not knowing all the answers. This kind of classroom does take some practice, but it's amazing once you are in it. Of course what Palmer does not address is the fact that all classes are different. One year you might have a class that thrives on discussion. Another year you might have a dud. I can never figure out why. I guess I'll blame it on genetics.
haha yeah I would blame the parents of a certain year. I have noticed that with students that come for farm craft bc some are a great group and others I really struggle with. And I think this is bc of the parents that come. The one's that are engaged and encourage their kids help the kids get excited about what they are doing. Lately I feel I have been using your method of teaching for farm craft, I cheer and do what ever to get those kids pumped up. I thank you for showing us your style.
ReplyDeleteTHere are often many thoughts that I have about the book. Some I agree with but others I don't, ITs hard to know what is imporatnt enough to discuss.
ReplyDelete