There are benefits to teaching little people. These are the students who repeatedly pester their parents during the late summer days about when the first day of school is. For the most part, first graders want to come to school, although I've certainly met some who felt differently. I'm not sure what would happen if we all decided they didn't have to be there but were more than welcome to come if they wanted. Would I be teaching to an empty room? It would make for an interesting experiment.
Dave Burgess' question spurred my own question. What exactly are the qualities of a classroom that would trump all the other facets of life that beg for our students' attention? It seems only natural to answer from the standpoint of my own experience as a student. What would keep me coming back even if I weren't required to?
I feel loved.
I'm important.
I'm noticed.
I feel successful.
I'm interested in the content.
I have a personal connection to the content.
The content is relevant to my life.
I have choice.
I have a chance to shine in a way that fits my personality.
There's time to apply and practice what I'm learning.
My attempts and approximations are accepted.
I'm celebrated.
I get to do, move, and take breaks.
My instructor believes in me.
(I could continue.)
The student in me is probably not much different than the 23 students in my class. This list, although nowhere near exhaustive, sure does make me stop and think about whether my classroom offers my kids the chance to experience something they could not live without. Would they show up if they didn't have to or would they be overwhelmingly drawn to their Legos, Barbies, and video games?
I really like this quote...I have heard it before...but I really want to ask my kids and get their responses. Thanks for the thinking post!
ReplyDeleteLaurie
Chickadee Jubilee
Laurie, it's a great question. I'm not bold enough to ask my children. :)
DeleteAck, I'm not sure I want to ask this question. I did have one little guy last year that was very vocal about not liking school. But, really, it is good to think about what atmosphere I'm / we're creating in our rooms.
ReplyDeleteSara
Sara, I've had those kids. We've all had them. You're right though. Regardless, it's worth thinking about.
DeleteMost classes I've taught loved school and would groan if I said tomorrow was a holiday. But this group is very different! :) They start asking at 9:00 when it's time to go home. Your list helps me to see where I can maybe do better about making it more exciting for them to come to school.
ReplyDeleteNot Just Child's Play
Miss Trayers, some groups are like that, huh? Making a list was a good reflective process for me.
DeleteA great list, Tammy! I would add: I have friends. I feel safe. :) We'll be doing our class placements on Monday and while there are all sorts of considerations to keep in mind, remembering to keep friends together is very important (in my mind:)).
ReplyDeleteGrade ONEderful
Ruby Slippers Designs
Barb, thank you for adding. I was hoping someone would.
DeleteGreat list and a great thought to reflect on. It's great to hear the groans from some when I tell them that it is the weekend and that I won't see them until Monday. But at the same time, I need to reflect on why about the ones who don't want to come back on Monday.
ReplyDeleteLori
Conversations in Literacy
Lori, asking the questions about why are important. There are times when I'm not so good at that.
DeleteIs there really anything inside a class room that can compare to our legos and video games? You'd likely lose that fight even with those who like learning...
ReplyDeleteRidley, possibly so. I'd still like to create a classroom that engages learners. It sure gives me something to work towards.
DeleteTweeted! So, so important to teach to their future, not our past. Love it!!
ReplyDeleteBarbara
Barbara, thank you for your confirmation and for the tweet as well!
DeleteGood thoughts! I like to think we have so much fun, the kids would all want to be there...especially this year. But I know in the past, it might not be so. I know it is important to connect with each kiddo and form those relationships that would keep them coming back!
ReplyDeleteCrystal
Crystal, you make a good point. Relationships are that important.
Delete