Tracking (5/19/08)

When I was younger, I never understood why were our classes separated the way they were.  In fourth grade, our classes where divided into 4 classes: 4-A, 4-B, 4-C, and 4-D.  The same for 5th grade.  It was very noticeable that the majority of whites where in 4-A and as the sections went down more and more blacks were added.  Some would make the assumption that my class (4-A) was the smart class.  They would say 4-D was the “slow” class.  I really believe this made an impact our lives.  Now that I am older, I remember many of those students who were in the bottom sections did not excell as well once they got to high school.  They choose to get on the Vocational track because they stated college was not for them.  It is funny how when you are young, you are not aware of what is going on, but you know whatever it is, it is not right! 

1 comment May 21, 2008 kscott23

Homosexuality (5/16/08)

Honestly, I would have to say I do not feel homosexuality is a topic that should be discussed in the classroom.  Maybe it will be discussed among the student.  But if a student asks me about the topic, I would tell them that maybe it is something that they should discuss with their parent.  It is not a topic that ALL parents will agree to be discussed or explained to their child.  Yes, it is a real issue in our society.  However, it is one of those sensitive issues.  If the parents want their child to know about the issue, I would choose to let the parents inform them about it.   I would like to have respect for the parents.  Not to say I would allow the parents to run my class.  But having that mutual respect would be much easier for me.  I feel I will have several other problems to worry about. 

1 comment May 21, 2008 kscott23

Ebonics (5/15/08)

I used to find it kind of offensive to hear the term “Ebonics” to describe the way blacks speak.  When I first heard the word “Ebonics”, I thought this is just something to label or mock the way we speak.  But once I saw the way it had been broken down, I was kind of inspired. I began to think “it really is another language or dialect so to speak”.  I realized I really do use this language somewhat when I am around family, friends, and in any informal setting.  However, in a different setting, I use Standard American English.  I believe there is a time and a place for everything. 

Add comment May 21, 2008 kscott23

Krystle (5/14/08)

Today was a very inspirational and insightful day for me.  We learned the history about “Sweet Auburn” Ave.  I have never heard of or was ever taught of how significant this street is in the black community. Just to hear the stories of how much of a “vibrant commerical and entertainment district” it was for blacks in Atlanta was exciting me because I knew I would soon have the chance to walk down this very street. Nevertheless, inspired, yet disappointed! I was inspired because I had learned of the rich history of this street.  However, I was disappointed because its poor conditions in some areas.  I just feel that because of its significance, it’s history should have been preserved.  Many of the buildings need to be restored. 

Visiting the King Center was inspiring in many ways.  I was given the opportunity to explore and gain even more knowledge about one of the most significant leaders in, not only the black communities, but in the world.  I also learned more about his wife, Mrs. Coretta Scott King.  I learned about Mahatma Gandhi.  I was not aware that Dr. King was so inspired by Gandhi.  It was an inspiration to see that so many children were involved. As an adult, I would not even say I could compare myself to having the amount of courage, bravery, and determination as these children had. I had the feeling that I needed to re-evaluate myself.  It helped me to realize that I need to continue to pursue my dream.  Being a great, productive teacher will be my way of bring a change to the world. 

2 comments May 15, 2008 kscott23

Krystle 5/13/08

I really enjoyed the activity with the chairs that demonstrated the ”pyramid” of the socioeconomic status in the United States.  There was a question asked “How do we implement these issues of being “poor” in the classroom.  I feel that “poor” is a state of mind. I know people who live in shacks and do not want to do any better.  They say it is what they are used to and anything else would make them unhappy.  As long as they have they have their family, friends, and other necessities that makes them happy, they are okay with that.  They feel money can’t buy them happiness.  Therefore, we should teach our students to live life to the fullest by finding happiness. 

Add comment May 15, 2008 kscott23

Krystle (5/12/08)

Today was quite interesting. We discussed quite a few issues that appeared to be quite uncomfortable to address. For me, it seemed to be strange because I have never been able to discuss issues of this sort among a diverse group of people. It was interesting to hear about the different stereotypes that everyone had heard of. I liked the activity that was done downstairs. It was an eye-opener for me. It was amazing to see where everyone ended at. The video that we watched showed the reality of the world today. The people were given a small taste of how some people feel throughout the course of their life.

3 comments May 12, 2008 kscott23

The retreat

I really enjoyed the retreat.  I had a great time. I enjoyed all of the activities that were planned.  It gave me a chance to get to know everyone better.  Serenbe is a very beautiful and peaceful place.  It is definitely a place I would like to revisit. 

Add comment May 12, 2008 kscott23

Enjoyed class today

I really enjoyed today’s class. I particularly liked the activity right after lunch. It was interesting hearing the different stand points of everyone in the classroom. This activity also helped me to get to know everyone a little better.

Here is an interesting quote I found. Please make comments on whether you agree or disagree with this author’s point of view.

“Nature has color-coded groups of individuals so that statistically reliable predictions of their adaptability to intellectually rewarding and effective lives can easily be made and profitably be used by the pragmatic man in the street.” -William Shockley

1 comment May 6, 2008 kscott23

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1 comment May 5, 2008 kscott23