D&Z Ch 12

Here we are, at the finish line!!! D&Z provided some great strategies this past semester that I will keep in mind and refer to when I have my own classroom.  The "How Students See it" section was probably the most valuable to me in regards to the kind of teacher I want to be.  Take Hal's perspective for example, "I asked Mrs.Stoop, "What's the point in reading anyway?" "So she sat me down and she printed out an article that told all the different ways that reading could help me.  She really took the time for me." [Amy explained later that he had been on the verge of dropping out, but was now a very successful student.]  I think there was much more to that story that "saved" Hal's academic career, however, had she answered with a simple generic "because it's important," Hal would have probably rolled his eyes and not read. As a student, knowing that a teacher has faith in you. believes in you and is willing to take the extra step is incredibly motivating.  At least it was for me in high school.  I think that's what separates those who were meant to be teachers and those who teach for convenience.  There are teachers who cover content and their job is over at 3:00 when they walk out of the building.  And then there are teachers like the one i want to become.  Your work day is never finished. You go home and think of new ways to do something, better ways, how to improve and how to be there for your students.  Those were the teachers who had a substantial influence on my life and I feel as though I owe my success thus far in college to them.  They inspired me to become a teacher and instill in my students the motivation they instilled in me.......Even if that means I have to be a super senior and spend ridiculous amounts of money on multiple brutal Praxis tests!!!!! :)