So its back to 5:30 a.m. wake up calls, grading papers into the night, dodging cars as pubescent drivers fly past, enforcing rules, and catching cheaters...oh the joys of school! My school corporation headed back into the swing of things this week, and while I feel unprepared I am once again implementing lessons to teach teenagers about the United States - their home. You'd think they'd be more interested to learn about our history - our triumphs and our mistakes, wins and loses, etc. But I was once again doused with a cold bit of reality: they don't care! Oh for shame! These are the leaders of tomorrow, but who cares about tomorrow when you can be texting your boyfriend in the class next door? Right?
Despite my apparent sarcasm, I am quite happy to be back at work. There's something about having a schedule and purpose that makes the days go by that much faster. While my students leave something to be desired thus far, I did get some good news. I was selected from a group of volunteers to go to China! Our corporation has partnered with a school in China and is starting an exchange program for educators. Last year we hosted a group of Chinese educators, and I will be part of the first delegation sent from our corporation in return during April 2010. I'm not quite sure of most of the particulars, but we have our first informative meeting next Thursday. I'll have to let you know more as the time approaches!
3 comments:
more history made today with Kennedy's death - maybe current events so closely connected to (recent) history will spark an interest?
score on the China delegation selection! very cool.
I would hope that current events would excite them, but with my students the only thing I've found to work thus far are drug analogies. For instance when talking about the bill of rights:
Does the school have the right to search your locker? What about if you left a roach burning in it and that wafting special smell reaches the olfactory glands of a teacher/administrator? Does your fourth amendment rights protect your locker from being searched?
At least that started a LIVELY discussion. ; )
Congratulations on your selection and good luck learning the language!
Your students are fortunate to have someone who cares enough to engage them in their limited sphere of interest--hope you find a way to expand the bubbles!
love, auntS
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