Ch+8-Jen+C

As an English teacher, anything to help me work smarter rather than harder is desirable. I saw some of the things I do in my classes in this reading; I knew why I did them, but haven't had the opportunity to articulate them. For example, I am not the first reader/feed-backer/coach for my students' writing; I don't fine-tooth-comb their final versions. However, the passage from the reading I want to reflect on is on page 142, 3rd paragraph. "Develop a one-page classroom handout that communicates your expectations for the written work that students submit in your content area...." I want to do this activity before next school year; I want to share this with students and parents at the freshmen orientation. Explaining the difference between my roles as coach and judge is challenging. Students, parents, and administrators need to understand the difference and a handout/brochure "The many face of Mrs. Carbonneau" may help. It could be fun to create. (I could have spent this space on student reflection and teaching reflection. I valued much of this chapter.) (I also found out how to spell check this space throught the use of Google Toolbar.)

Susan I: This part was cool too. It made me think of designing writing expectations in my own class also or as grade 7 expectations. In fact, each student is given a "Science Expectations" page to put in their science binder and incorporates some of this already. It gives a brief explanation about bellringers and what writing must be done in complete sentences. Maybe I could expand this part just a little more. Then, students have it in their binders all year long.

Mark: Jen I thought you said you wanted to work "smarter not harder"? Do you realize the amount of work you would have to put into this? I will bring a copy of what I pass out at the beginnning of each new term with each new class. This will be my presentation for this week. You wouldn't believe what still doesn't get accomplished. It's more thinking and doing on our part rather than on the part of the student.