Week 6

I feel that a lot has happened in Week 6. First, I graded the language tests over last weekend that I gave last Friday and realized that the majority of the class did terrible! Obviously, I didn't do something right, so I changed my plans around for Monday so that we could have a long review. We went over the topic, the test, and even completed more related problems. I could tell that the students were getting it, and I was pleased. To help the students make up for the lackluster grades, I allowed them to complete similar problems from their textbook for extra credit. All they had to do was complete 20 problems for homework and bring it back to me on Tuesday. To my major disappointment, not one student took advantage of this opportunity! I was floored that the students really did not care about their grades. At this moment, I re-evaluated how I was going to teach this class. I decided that I will no longer give homework if at all possible, other than studying for quizzes and tests. I absolutely do not want these students to fail, and I feel that the only way to prevent this is to do more work in class. Also, I am going to center my lessons around the students' engagement. The more they enjoy what they are learning, the more likely they will be to care about the assignment. Since my epiphany, the week has gone very smoothly.

Tuesday night was parent/teacher conferences. We had nine parents show up, two of whom are in my seventh grade class. One was the mother of the most high-achieving and conscientious student in the class. I have come to the conclusion that most of the parents that attend these conferences and keep up with their children's grades have the most successful students in the school. Students need parents that care and are aware of what goes on at school. Also, I had a parent of a child that I have been having trouble keeping organized. I let her know that his unorganization has been a concern for me, and I gave her the work that he was not turned in. He turned in his missing assignments the next day. I wish I could have done this with all of the parents!

Next Thursday is the 8th grade field trip. I think that I am the most unfamiliar with these students and look forward to getting to know them better on this trip!