Chapter 4 focused on high expectations and raising the bar for students when it comes to writing. I was able to relate to the part that stated minority students often have lower expectations. I teach in a Title I and ELL building. About half of my class is made up of minority students. Yet, I have very high expectations for my students. They always rise to meet those expectations. Then, I take the bar and raise it even higher. I remember as a student, I always learned so much more in classes where the teacher had high expectations and would continuously challenge us. It felt so good at the end of projects or challenges to know that I made it through successfully. This really builds up your confidence level and self-esteem. I follow this same philosophy with my own students. We work our tails off each and every day. They are constantly being challenged, and at the end of the day, they can say, “wow! I made it. I can do this!” Just because they are considered minority students, does not mean they cannot be successful and work hard. They might have to work much harder than other students, but they can succeed.
The text also said that students need to know failure is not an option. I make it very clear to my students that they will meet my expectations. It might take some longer than others, but eventually they will all meet them. Certainly, some students writing assignments may look different from other students’, but they are all required to complete each writing project and activity.
Below is a photo that reminded my of the power of high expectations and challenges- it is from my ESU graduation in May 2009.
Below is a photo that reminded my of the power of high expectations and challenges- it is from my ESU graduation in May 2009.
That is great that you have high expectations for those particular students that you teach. Its important for ALL students, but especially with those students in general. Great picture too by the way! :)
ReplyDeleteI love your picture of graduation! I go to at least one ESU graduation every year, but I always enjoy sharing that special day with students.
ReplyDeleteI was glad to read that you appreciate teachers with high expectations. It's a fine line that college teachers walk. We want our class to be worthwhile, interesting, and to challenge students enough that they will like the class but will not become too overwhelmed. It's tough to find the right balance in college and in the elementary classroom.