Blog #7

Find 3 subheadings in the chapter that are very clear to you now. Compare and contrast Mr. Johnson's ideas, YOUR ideas for your own class, and the 3 subheadings that are especially meaningful in that comparison. (By "subtopics" I mean the 1- to 2-paragraph sections surrounding the Figures in chapter 6.). Is there something in what you are required to teach for which you could "plan the engagement" in similar ways?

I found many of the subheadings eye opening. One that stood out to me was "look for fresh ways to present and explore ideas". I love that Mr Johnson wrote assignments to the students as though he were a company looking for experienced builders. He got into character for the kids and made it novel and exciting! I love the ideas that the book talks about such as watching cartoons, acting out information, looking at photos, and reading children's books (at any age). A teacher can bring in guest speakers, take small field trips and much more. Teaching new curriculum does not mean we have to always do direct instruction, we can be creative. I love that the book mentions that this way of teaching may "also inevitably spark students not reached by more traditional instructional avenues".

Another subheading that I liked was "Use meaningful audiences". Students will get bored presenting the same stuff to the same class members all the time. How much does it motivate a child to know their work was going to be displayed in a local library or they were going to present their information to Grandma or another class of students. There are so many exciting possibilities when it comes to audiences that will inspire children. I didn't see many examples of this in Mr Johnsons lesson but I can see where it can be added. Students could present their boats to different classes, family members or even enter a community contest. Even presenting student work at a senior center would not only benefit the students but also bring some joy to seniors who may need a boost. I can see me taking advantage of these opportunities for my students especially with their writing.

"Use tiered approaches" is another one that I liked. Mr Johnson tiered this assignment so effectively. I am sure that none of the groups felt cheated out of a fun activity, all of the assignments were engaging. I have been talking with my team about doing rotations for math. I know rotations are slightly different than what this chapter is referring to but I believe that students need to be taught at their level. This can be done in one classroom with multiple varieties to assignments or within many classrooms where teachers cater to the needs of the students. Having demanding work is important. I remember months and sometimes even entire grade levels where I was able to walk through the work and get an A without really pushing myself. Students like work to be easy but it is so important that we teach each student at a level just beyond their comfort zone (Aim High).