Today was County Institute Day, here in DuPage County. The kids got to stay home (yay!), and the teachers got to learn how to be better teachers without having to deal with kids being around (yay).
The workshop I attended dealt with meeting the needs of African-American students. I was not sure what to expect, but I was very impressed, and walked away with a lot of useful information. All of what the speaker said made sense to me, much of it I already do, but I did have my eyes opened to a few things.
Where I work, I don't deal with many students of color. That's just the demographics of the community. Sometimes I think I am a little too authoritarian (perhaps it is the German upbringing), or maybe I am just old. But regardless, my students will have a little better experience this semester--and so will I.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Hooters
Two of my students were quitely discussing restauants and going out with friends at the end of class, after we were done with our lesson for the day. One of them mentioned that he was looking forward to going to Hooters Restaurant this weekend.
Another student, who had not been involved in the conversation, chimed in with, "I've been thinking about Hooters all day!"
It must be rough being a sophomore boy!
Another student, who had not been involved in the conversation, chimed in with, "I've been thinking about Hooters all day!"
It must be rough being a sophomore boy!
Waterworks
Today, I am giving tests in four of my five classes. In my second hour class, one of my goofier students, a junior, I'll call him Carl, was being more silly than usual. He was knocking things off of other students desks, he through an empty water bottle at the recycling bin (and missed), and in the middle of me giving the test directions, he belched so loud that the walls shook. (Ok, maybe I am exaggerating.)
In my best teacher voice, I said, "Carl, out in the hall." I got the rest of the students started, then went out to scold him. So, I was doing my usual scolding--"Your disruptions and behavior have been getting worse. The classes is being negatively impacted. Today, I am going to have to call home and call your coach, and let them know about your behavior. . ."
That is when the tears came.
"Mr. Miller, I'm sorry! I don't mean to be bad, I've been trying to be better . . ."
Oh, God, I get so freaked when the boys start to cry. But at this point, I think I finally got through to him. Then we talked frankly, him through his tears, and reached an understanding. We shook hands, and he thanked me (!).
I think he grew up a little today.
In my best teacher voice, I said, "Carl, out in the hall." I got the rest of the students started, then went out to scold him. So, I was doing my usual scolding--"Your disruptions and behavior have been getting worse. The classes is being negatively impacted. Today, I am going to have to call home and call your coach, and let them know about your behavior. . ."
That is when the tears came.
"Mr. Miller, I'm sorry! I don't mean to be bad, I've been trying to be better . . ."
Oh, God, I get so freaked when the boys start to cry. But at this point, I think I finally got through to him. Then we talked frankly, him through his tears, and reached an understanding. We shook hands, and he thanked me (!).
I think he grew up a little today.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Big Mistake
Today, I gave my students, what I thought was a powerful, empowering piece of advice. I told them to be honest, to tell the truth, and to be unafraid to let people know how you feel.
Mistake.
About two hours later, I received an email from one of my students offering suggestions for my class. Her big issue was
PowerPoint slide shows. "I can't learn from PowerPoint."
Sigh.
I do not, of course, over use slide shows. I don't think I have even spent the majority of a class period relying on one, but today I was introducing a new chapter. I thought I did a really nice job introducing a unit on Marketing Research. Oh, well.
However, my shoulders are broad. I definitely have heard worse, and in the scheme of things, I wish I would have been given such advice when I was in school. Then, I was taught to sit politely, and to be respectful, and to not make waves.
I actually have enjoyed this young woman's participation and very challenging responses this semester. I'm sure I will enjoy the intellectual jousting we will have this semester.
Mistake.
About two hours later, I received an email from one of my students offering suggestions for my class. Her big issue was
PowerPoint slide shows. "I can't learn from PowerPoint."
Sigh.
I do not, of course, over use slide shows. I don't think I have even spent the majority of a class period relying on one, but today I was introducing a new chapter. I thought I did a really nice job introducing a unit on Marketing Research. Oh, well.
However, my shoulders are broad. I definitely have heard worse, and in the scheme of things, I wish I would have been given such advice when I was in school. Then, I was taught to sit politely, and to be respectful, and to not make waves.
I actually have enjoyed this young woman's participation and very challenging responses this semester. I'm sure I will enjoy the intellectual jousting we will have this semester.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Technology Issues
Today was an interesting day. We started out not being able to access our files on our school's home network. It seems that a power outage over the weekend messed things up. I had been all set to introduce a new chapter, using a PowerPoint slide show. But alas, I could not open the file.
So, I taught the lesson, 'old school'. My classroom has a true, real slate, blackboard. (I am in the old part of the building, in a room that hasn't been modernized.) I rolled up the screen, got out my box of white chalk, and got down to business.
It was a lot of fun, the students found it interesting, and I didn't make any of those awful chalkboard sounds. (I learned a long time ago, how to properly hold the chalk.) I can still write fast and legibly! And I can do it with one eye on the the board and the other on the class.
Later in the morning, we lost power (wires down). This time it was not as much fun. It was during my prep period, and I had a long list of things to do, all of which required electricity. Fortunately, we got power back, just in time for lunch!
So, I taught the lesson, 'old school'. My classroom has a true, real slate, blackboard. (I am in the old part of the building, in a room that hasn't been modernized.) I rolled up the screen, got out my box of white chalk, and got down to business.
It was a lot of fun, the students found it interesting, and I didn't make any of those awful chalkboard sounds. (I learned a long time ago, how to properly hold the chalk.) I can still write fast and legibly! And I can do it with one eye on the the board and the other on the class.
Later in the morning, we lost power (wires down). This time it was not as much fun. It was during my prep period, and I had a long list of things to do, all of which required electricity. Fortunately, we got power back, just in time for lunch!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Greatful Audiemce
On Saturday, I gave a presentation at a meeting of a local group of antiques collectors. There were about 60 people in the audience, mainly older folk, and they were such a great audience! Sat with rapt attention. Had great questions when I was done. They all applauded at the very end. And not a single person fell asleep!
I'd like to say that this is the way my classes at school go, but I rarely get applause. I'm not going to begin talking about questions. Sometimes, my favorite activity is waking up the sleepy heads.
Don't get me wrong, I have a lot of great kids, but I guess the old saying is true--"Youth is wasted on the young!"
Or is it part of our problem in education. I was talking to one of the folks at the collector's group, a retired Industrial Arts teacher. He was bemoaning the decline and demise of what we used to call "shop" classes. I couldn't agree with him more. Making teenagers, boys especially, sit in chairs in rows, and expect them to listen and participate appropriately from 8 to 3 every day, is not realistic. We are so focused on preparing for the state tests, that we forget that there are other types of learning, not just memorization of math, science, and history facts. Sometimes kids, and adults too, just need to move around and do a different type of activity.
I'd like to say that this is the way my classes at school go, but I rarely get applause. I'm not going to begin talking about questions. Sometimes, my favorite activity is waking up the sleepy heads.
Don't get me wrong, I have a lot of great kids, but I guess the old saying is true--"Youth is wasted on the young!"
Or is it part of our problem in education. I was talking to one of the folks at the collector's group, a retired Industrial Arts teacher. He was bemoaning the decline and demise of what we used to call "shop" classes. I couldn't agree with him more. Making teenagers, boys especially, sit in chairs in rows, and expect them to listen and participate appropriately from 8 to 3 every day, is not realistic. We are so focused on preparing for the state tests, that we forget that there are other types of learning, not just memorization of math, science, and history facts. Sometimes kids, and adults too, just need to move around and do a different type of activity.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
European Union
Today, while reviewing for a test in my first hour class, I had one of those rare moments when I thought that the students got it.
Usually, this group is sleepy and unresponsive. It is 8 a.m., after all. However, today, in a discussion about the European Union and whether Turkey should be a member, a number of students really got into the discussion, and were throwing out ideas, discussing contradictions, and showing that they really had an understanding of what some of the real issues are.
Sweet!
Usually, this group is sleepy and unresponsive. It is 8 a.m., after all. However, today, in a discussion about the European Union and whether Turkey should be a member, a number of students really got into the discussion, and were throwing out ideas, discussing contradictions, and showing that they really had an understanding of what some of the real issues are.
Sweet!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Pants
This morning, I was kidding one of my students who's pants were sagging a little too low. (I usually tell them that President Obama sent a message for them--that the brothers need to pull their pants up!)
After this, I went back to getting ready for my class when Will (as we'll call him) called to me and said "see Mr. Miller, you don't need to worry, I wear two pairs of pants, in case someone trys to 'pants' me. He was standing there in class, with his outer pair of pants down around his ankles! Thank goodness for that second pair of long pants.
After this, I went back to getting ready for my class when Will (as we'll call him) called to me and said "see Mr. Miller, you don't need to worry, I wear two pairs of pants, in case someone trys to 'pants' me. He was standing there in class, with his outer pair of pants down around his ankles! Thank goodness for that second pair of long pants.
Test Review
Today I was reviewing for an upcoming test in four classes. I started the day in a fairly organized fashion (I guess you could say boring). In my last class the kids said, "Can't we play a game?" "Let's play 'Round the World.'"
That one was a new one to me--you start with a pair of students, ask a question, then the one who gets the answer correct first, moves on to the next student, and then you do the same thing over and over again. The winner is the student who goes around the room and gets to their original seat. We had a blast. They took the questions seriously, learned what they still needed to study, and had fun too.
We'll see how the test grades turn out tomorrow. . .
That one was a new one to me--you start with a pair of students, ask a question, then the one who gets the answer correct first, moves on to the next student, and then you do the same thing over and over again. The winner is the student who goes around the room and gets to their original seat. We had a blast. They took the questions seriously, learned what they still needed to study, and had fun too.
We'll see how the test grades turn out tomorrow. . .
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Whining
Today, one of my students, a junior in a freshman class, interupted me to tell me that I was the reason he was doing poorly in class. His rationale was that since I did not give him a handout with the assignments listed, that he never knew when his assignments were due.
Of course, I reminded him that I either put the assignment on the board, or it is projected on the screen. Our school also gives the students an assignment notebook, which I always remind the students to write the assignment in. And, in addition, there is a web site for our class, that listed all the assignments, through the end of the school year.
After this explanation, with a straight face, he said, "Mr. Miller, I don't use the Internet, except for funny YouTube videos!"
Flabbergasted, I could only say that it looked like his grade was going to be the one that made the other student's grades look better!
Of course, I reminded him that I either put the assignment on the board, or it is projected on the screen. Our school also gives the students an assignment notebook, which I always remind the students to write the assignment in. And, in addition, there is a web site for our class, that listed all the assignments, through the end of the school year.
After this explanation, with a straight face, he said, "Mr. Miller, I don't use the Internet, except for funny YouTube videos!"
Flabbergasted, I could only say that it looked like his grade was going to be the one that made the other student's grades look better!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Plotting and Scheming
I spent some time tonight plotting and scheming with one of my colleagues (via Facebook) over enrollment issues and potential course offerings. What a way to spend a day off of work!
Also heard from a dear friend, and former student, who has been enoying my blog every day. He said that I am bookmarked between the Huffington Post and Perez Hilton. What company!
Also heard from a dear friend, and former student, who has been enoying my blog every day. He said that I am bookmarked between the Huffington Post and Perez Hilton. What company!
Numbers
My department chair sent us our raw enrollment numbers this weekend. In numbers of students, we are up a little. However, some courses are down, and other courses are up in enrollment. We will have to see how the sectioning goes. The way I would divide the sections, things would be the same as this year. However, if they want to cut, they could increase class size and reduce staffing.
I always hate this time of year, because we are at the mercy and whim of student enrollment fluctuations and counselor advice (and sometimes antagonistic administrators). Even though I won't be there next year, I still believe very strongly in what we teach and I care very much for my colleagues. We'll see how things work out.
I always hate this time of year, because we are at the mercy and whim of student enrollment fluctuations and counselor advice (and sometimes antagonistic administrators). Even though I won't be there next year, I still believe very strongly in what we teach and I care very much for my colleagues. We'll see how things work out.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Farts
On Friday, one of my freshmen was passing gas quite loudly in class. When I glared at him (I really didn't know what to say), he stated that it was his right to take care of his bodily functions in class. At that point, I just pointed to the door, and he got the idea, and went to "time out."
I was sure if I started talking, I would either say something very inappropriate, or start to laugh!
I was sure if I started talking, I would either say something very inappropriate, or start to laugh!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Pretty Ordinary Day
Not much unusual going on today. I was there early for a union meeting--I am the "whip" representing our department. We are looking at reorganizing our association.
Classes went well. Finished an educational film (movie?) in one class, introduced a new chapter in four more.
My 7th hour class was observed by one of our social workers who is working with one of my troubled students. She didn't see much from the individual she was observing, but did comment on the freshman boys! They sure have energy that they don't know how to harness!
Tomorrow is Friday, and a long weekend. Thank you, all of the Presidents of the United States!
Classes went well. Finished an educational film (movie?) in one class, introduced a new chapter in four more.
My 7th hour class was observed by one of our social workers who is working with one of my troubled students. She didn't see much from the individual she was observing, but did comment on the freshman boys! They sure have energy that they don't know how to harness!
Tomorrow is Friday, and a long weekend. Thank you, all of the Presidents of the United States!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Earthquake
I was a little disoriented at work today. We had an earthquake that woke us up at 4 a.m. The whole house was shaking and creaking. What a wierd feeling! I never did get back to sleep.
We had a "late arrival" day at school today. Our department met with our counterparts at our sister school. We discussed curriculum ideas, enrollment, and new technology. It is amazing that two schools, just a few minutes apart, can have such different personalities. I worked at the other school 20 years ago, and this situation hasn't changed. In education change can happen at glacial speeds.
But the donuts and coffee were good. Mmmm. Dunkin Donuts!
We had a "late arrival" day at school today. Our department met with our counterparts at our sister school. We discussed curriculum ideas, enrollment, and new technology. It is amazing that two schools, just a few minutes apart, can have such different personalities. I worked at the other school 20 years ago, and this situation hasn't changed. In education change can happen at glacial speeds.
But the donuts and coffee were good. Mmmm. Dunkin Donuts!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
A Compliment
Today at school, one of the younger teachers (been here 15 years) paid me a compliment. She said, "you know, I have seen a lot of people here in their last year of teaching, and you are the only one who still seems to enjoy your job."
That really made me feel good, because I do enjoy my job, and do like working with the kids. I still think that this job is fun. Though I am getting tired of some of the malarkey.
Today, one of my freshmen was tearing off parts of his jeans in class today and throwing the pieces at another student. Of course, the other student became highly indignant, and a scene ensued. So much for fun . . .
That really made me feel good, because I do enjoy my job, and do like working with the kids. I still think that this job is fun. Though I am getting tired of some of the malarkey.
Today, one of my freshmen was tearing off parts of his jeans in class today and throwing the pieces at another student. Of course, the other student became highly indignant, and a scene ensued. So much for fun . . .
Monday, February 8, 2010
Grocery Store
On Sunday, we stopped a grocery store near my school. Ran into two students and a parent during that few minute stop. "Hi Mr. Miller, what are you doing here?!" Ugh.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Job Posting
I found out that the posted my job this week. Things haven't bothered me much so far, but knowing that there will be people competing for MY job, makes it seem somehow more final.
One of my colleagues checked, and mine is the only business education job posted right now in northern Illinois. So there will be a lot of interest. We'll see who they find.
Ironic thing is that our school wouldn't hire me today. They will only consider people with stellar academic records. I had a rough first semester freshman year in college. Wasn't prepared for the rigor. Of course, I learned the hard way, and that made me a better student (and a better teacher.) I've always felt that the best teachers know what it is like to struggle and to overcome.
One of my colleagues checked, and mine is the only business education job posted right now in northern Illinois. So there will be a lot of interest. We'll see who they find.
Ironic thing is that our school wouldn't hire me today. They will only consider people with stellar academic records. I had a rough first semester freshman year in college. Wasn't prepared for the rigor. Of course, I learned the hard way, and that made me a better student (and a better teacher.) I've always felt that the best teachers know what it is like to struggle and to overcome.
Timeout?!
Yesterday I had to send one of my sophomores to "timeout." Fifteen years old, over 6' tall, and an athlete. He made a scene because somebody was looking at him!
Ugh!
Ugh!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
First Test
I gave my first test of the semester. Over Chapters 1 & 2 in my Marketing class. Made the mistake of grading them today. Not good. There will be much whining.
Tomorrow I have tests in four classes. These are my younger students. We'll see how they do.
Tomorrow I have tests in four classes. These are my younger students. We'll see how they do.
So How Many Days Is It?!
I told myself that I was not going to obsess and do a countdown calendar. I actually have been enjoying just going with the flow.
However, every day I get the question, "So how many days is it?" Well, I broke down and counted last night. After today, I have 77 school days left. Or as one of my colleagues says, "only 77 wake-ups!"
However, every day I get the question, "So how many days is it?" Well, I broke down and counted last night. After today, I have 77 school days left. Or as one of my colleagues says, "only 77 wake-ups!"
Monday, February 1, 2010
Easy Day
Today went quite well. No hassles. No problems. I demonstrated the use of "speech recognition" for my younger students. It is a really cool thing. We use Dragon Naturally Speaking at our school as a part of the keyboarding (typing) curriculum. It is a lot of fun. Dragon is also available as an app for Iphones. So you can 'text' without typing on those tiny screens! Watching the kids download it on their phones, and then use it to 'text' each other was fun.
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