I absolutely loved today because I learned so much. Today we did a diverse lesson but funny thing was I didn't know we were suppose to until after I picked the book for the day and it ended up being perfect. Today we actually focused on Asian-American athletes. We looked at a powerpoint and was shocked to see how many athletes actually have a variety of cultures with them. The tutee comes from the same family as me and we are biracial so it was nice seeing Reggie being able to relate to a lot to the athletes and what they had to say. It was a great experience and very inspiring in most cases.
We focused our attention on Hines Ward who is actually half Asian and half African American. The tutee is half Caucasian and half Native American the biracial situation kicked in. Hines talked about how difficult it was to fit in at times because he had trouble figuring out who he was and Reggie shared that this is sometimes how he feels. It was so rewarding to see such a great ending for him and to see how it impacted Reggie. Reggie mentioned it was his favorite story we had read so far. Reggie comprehended this story very well and I think it had a lot to do with the similarities they have and how he can relate them to his life. Reggie needs application in order to feel it is relevant enough to read so I feel he really connected to the text because of the relation.
Today we worked on the Cornell notes and he seemed to really enjoy this strategy and he mentioned he would like to keep using it for when he studies. It will also be mentioned to the parents as a reminder because it truly is a great strategy to have in your back pocket. I actually hadn't even heard of it until this class.I wish I would have had someone to tell me some of the things I am able to share with my tutee. I just hope he feels it's important enough to keep and use.
Today I learned how much of an impact one short book can have on someone. We always hear of inspirational stories on TV but to actually see the connection the child make with a book can be breath taking. I actually went home and had a little happy tear party (I happen to do this at times when I am super proud of a kid or the class). It is such a rewarding experience to be a teacher and I am so thankful I was put in the position I am. I love what I do and I love this experience.
Next lesson I would like to work on applying more of the content to his life because he really likes the connections. It will happen more in an informal setting but it does need to happen especially since he depends on it so much in order to get motivated to read.
This is one of those "diamond" days that you will remember and the event was almost accidental. Because of this special time with your tutee, I am sure a stronger bond has developed. You deserve a "tearer" because these days come so few but they are so powerful to keep us in teaching.
ReplyDeleteAs you noted (and hopefully you will apply) connections make the students aware and eager to learn. You have to show them why the knowledge in class will affect positively their future life out of school. Sometimes the relevance is so hard to find (I am thinking of binomial equations but there must be a reason to have knowledge of them even though a computer/calculator can figure them out better.)