Let me share my thoughts on chapter 2. In my opinion, it's incredibly important to have teachers who are willingly to give encouragement to their diverse students. As teachers we need to put aside our own stereotypes in order to make sure that we give each student the same opportunities. Teachers are responsible for making sure that all their students have a great learning environment. I found it interesting that chapter two indicates that if the "school culture" doesn't mesh well with the student's own culture that it can adversely effect them incredibly. Sometimes I think we all just assume that these students will adjust to their environment, and just "get with the program". However, it's important to note that this isn't always the case. I remember reading about the first settlers, the Native American Indians, and how they were put into schools and forced to "assimilate" to the white man's way of learning. The first time I read these accounts of the Native American students and their feelings on how they were forced to "assimilate" I got really emotional. A young boy talked about how he was stripped of his culture, and his educators were stripping him of his spritual beliefs which meant the world to him. This is what we are still asking of many students today, and I don't think it's fair.
I also believe that because no two people are exactly alike, that our teaching methods must be diverse enough to reach all learning styles. We must ensure that all our students are able to read because not doing so will impact the rest of their lives. If they can't read and comprehend what they are reading then they won't become successful adults. Imagine trying to fill out a college admissions application and not being able to comprehend what is being asked of you. That leads to you not filling out a portion of that college entrance application correctly, and could lead to you not being accepted into that college. Perhaps you are just trying find a job via the internet, and you aren't able to create a resume that the employer is requesting of you, then what. Reading effects the way we comprehend, and the way we write. I hope that as future teaching professionals, we can all do whatever it takes to reach each child. That we keep our eyes open for those who may have learning disabilities, and make sure that they are given all the necessary tools needed.
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Author Profile: David Shannon
This week my husband read to my children, Too Many Toys, a book written and illustrated by David Shannon. When I finally got the chance to pick up the book and take a look at it the first thing that I noticed were the great illustrations. The vivid colors and whimsical images made reading the book truly engaging. Plus, a few of the pictures made it seem like I was looking at the floor in my own home. Toys in every nook and cranny, and covering the floor so that you don't even know if there is a floor underneath it.
The content of the book was also really wonderful! It captures the spirit of a young boy to a tee. Then, I did a little research on author, David Shannon. I had never heard of him, but as I looked him up on the web his books popped up quickly. Apparently, Shannon has a popular character, and line of books entitled, Oh, David. I will truthfully say that I haven't read these books, but many others have and love them. So this weekend I'm going to make a trip to the library (pay my library fine), and checking out more of Shannon's books. I'll report back to you once I read more of his books.
Happy reading to all!
2 comments:
I do notice that some people tend to push their personal beliefs on other people. I notice the biggest problem is religion. Everyone think their beliefs are correct over others beliefs as with the Native American Indians. I do take into consideration that not everyone views things the same and people come from different backgrounds. I think it has to do with the area you are born into.
I have always loved the "NO! David!" books. Thanks for sharing the website.
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