Teaching Is A Gift
If they can get their locker open on the first try, the rest of the day will be easy. Some never figure out the locker, so you can imagine what their year is like. It is also the first time some of them are challenged academically. I teach 7 th grade algebra and the expectations are high. It is technically a high school course and I move at a fast pace.
Some students who have always earned“ A’ s” may find it a little more difficult in this advanced class and they struggle emotionally with the fact there is something they do not understand. Most however, accept the challenge. It is amazing how smart they are and I am the fortunate one who gets to develop their desire for more challenges.
My goal for my students is for them to show growth over the course of the year. On the first day of school, I make a deal with them. For those who dislike math, I tell them I will do everything I can to help them like it a little bit( or a lot), as long as they agree to make an effort. For those who like math, I tell them I will teach them new concepts and challenge them to use their brains in new ways to solve problems.
I have students who range from a second grade reading level to brainiacs. We have state testing at the end of the year and I am amazed at what I have seen from some of the students who struggle on a daily basis. Of course we want all students to pass, but there are some students who are not ready cognitively for the material.
April 2013 | pieforseven. com 63