Pedagogue Blog

Matthew Lynch published in Higher Education EdTech

How I Use Instagram in High School Language Arts

Introduction:

As a high school language arts teacher, it is important to always look for ways to engage students in their learning and connect it to the world around them. One platform that has surprisingly proven effective in achieving this is Instagram. What started as a simple photo-sharing app has now become a useful tool that I often incorporate into my language arts curriculum. In this article, I will discuss how I use Instagram in high school language arts, its benefits, and some tips on how you can do the same.

Creating Classroom Community:

Firstly, Instagram helps build a sense of community among students. By setting up a private account solely for my language arts class, I am able to encourage student interaction by posting pictures, quotes, and daily writing prompts. Students are encouraged to follow the account on their own devices and engage in meaningful conversations through comments. Not only does this promote classroom bonding, but it also brings literature and writing into their daily lives outside of school hours.

Visual Presentations:

Instagram’s core concept revolves around visual content, which aids language learning. For example, when reading novels or plays together as a class, we create visual storyboards together on Instagram. Students collaborate on visually summarizing different scenes and themes using images that they find online or illustrate themselves. This helps reinforce their understanding of plot development and theme analysis in an interactive way.

Incorporating Poetry:

Poetry is an essential component of language arts curriculum; however, students often find it intimidating. To break this barrier down, I use Instagram as a medium for students to share their brief poetic expressions—also known as “insta-poems.” Insta-poems are short messages written with aesthetic visuals that make them more accessible and appealing than traditional poetry formats. By encouraging students to write insta-poems related to our course materials or current events, they build confidence with language and poetry while also gaining an appreciation for poetry outside of the classroom setting.

Connecting with Authors:

Through Instagram, we can directly connect with authors of the books we read in class. By following their accounts or using their hashtags, students can keep up with an author’s work, engage in Q&A sessions, and see where an author draws inspiration. This generation of authors is often active on Instagram and even shares exclusive content related to their books. Gaining insights into the lives of authors enriches students’ understanding and appreciation of literature.

Reflections and Tips:

Using Instagram in a high school language arts class has proven to be highly beneficial in promoting engagement, building community, and providing a contemporary approach to traditional curricular content. If you decide to incorporate Instagram into your own language arts class, be sure to adhere to your school’s social media policy and maintain privacy for all students by utilizing a private account just for classroom use. Additionally, be creative and open-minded when adapting lessons or assignments for Instagram – think outside the box!

In conclusion, incorporating Instagram as a teaching tool in high school language arts not only helps foster engagement with course material but also allows students to see how literature connects to the wider world. Integrate this visually-driven platform into your language arts class, and see how it takes student engagement and learning to a new level.

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Matthew Lynch published in Art Education

19 Awesome Tips & Tools for Teaching Kids Sewing and Fiber Crafts

Introduction:

Teaching kids sewing and fiber crafts is a fantastic way to nurture their creativity, help them develop motor skills, and spark their imagination. The following 19 tips and tools will inspire children to learn new techniques, embrace the art of sewing and fiber crafts, and have fun in the process.

1. Use kid-friendly sewing tools: Choose safety scissors, plastic needles, and bigger buttons that are easily handled by small hands.

2. Start with simple projects: Begin by teaching them the basics of sewing and gradually progress to more complex projects.

3. Encourage creativity: Allow them to express their creativity by choosing colors, materials, and patterns for their projects.

4. Organize supplies: Designate a dedicated space where they can store their sewing tools and supplies safely.

5. Teach sewing patterns: Introduce patterns early on so that they understand how different sewing techniques create unique pieces of art.

6. Use visual aids: Incorporate colorful illustrations or videos that explain each step clearly.

7. Create a safe environment: Ensure that the crafting area is well-lit, clean, and clutter-free for children’s safety.

8. Teach embroidery basics: Introduce basic stitches such as running stitch, backstitch, satin stitch, and chain stitch for embroidery projects.

9. Promote collaboration: Encourage children to work together on group projects to enhance teamwork and peer learning opportunities.

10. Make it age-appropriate: Adapt teaching techniques based on children’s age levels for effective learning experiences.

11. Sewing kits for kids: Invest in specialized child-friendly sewing kits designed specifically for younger ages.

12. Use felt fabric: Felt is an excellent material for kids to work with because it does not fray easily and requires minimal finishing touches after cutting.

13. Offer praise & support: Positively reinforce their efforts, celebrate their successes, and assist when necessary.

14. Embrace mistakes: Teach children that it’s okay to make mistakes in the learning process to help them grow in confidence and creativity.

15. Provide fun resources: Share books, online tutorials, or classes tailored to children to nurture their interest in sewing and fiber crafts.

16. Teach time management: Encourage them to work on projects patiently by setting realistic timelines and goals.

17. Yarn-based crafts: Introduce kids to knitting, crochet, and weaving to develop their familiarity with different fiber textures and fabric manipulation techniques.

18. Host craft parties: Arrange crafting sessions with friends where kids can socialize while engaging in creative projects.

19. Encourage a sense of accomplishment: Display their completed projects proudly so they can see their progress over time.

Conclusion:

Teaching kids sewing and fiber crafts is a rewarding endeavor that not only expands their creative abilities but also instills important life skills such as patience, perseverance, and confidence. By following these 19 awesome tips and tools, you’ll be well-equipped to share your love of sewing with the younger generation, sparking joy and inspiration in their lives.

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Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Decor

It’s a Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge, and These Teachers Conquered It!

Introduction:

Teaching students about the importance of recycling and promoting environmental awareness is an essential part of education. The Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge is a creative competition, inspiring teachers to take their ordinary recycling bins and transform them into unique, eye-catching masterpieces that encourage students to recycle more. In this article, we will celebrate the ingenuity and dedication of teachers who have successfully conquered the challenge.

The Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge:

The goal behind the Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge is to motivate teachers and students alike to think about recycling in a fun, engaging way. Utilizing their artistic skills and creativity, competing educators give their classroom’s recycling bins a makeover that not only captures attention but serves as a visual reminder for students to reduce waste and recycle whenever possible.

Winning Designs:

Several teachers went above and beyond in their efforts to meet this challenge head-on. Some of the most noteworthy makeovers include:

1. The Earth Defender:

One inventive teacher crafted an eye-catching “Earth Defender” superhero-themed bin, complete with a cape and hero emblem. Designed to inspire students to protect the planet, this bold design instills a sense of responsibility for preserving our environment.

2. The Eco-Submarine:

Another imaginative educator constructed an eco-submarine-shaped recycling bin featuring porthole windows made from bottle caps, creating an undersea adventure theme. This captivating design promoted recycling as an exciting journey towards saving marine life from plastic pollution.

3. Plant-tastic Recycler:

Infusing nature with sustainability, a third teacher crafted their bin into a mini garden featuring painted flowers and vines on the exterior alongside actual potted plants perched on top. This unique design fosters students’ appreciation for the environment while stressing the importance of recycling.

Impact on Students:

The Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge has made a significant impact on participating schools, as the artistic bins serve as conversation starters and constant reminders to students about the importance of recycling. Additionally, it has been observed that schools with creatively designed bins experienced an increase in the volume of recyclables collected, a clear indicator of this initiative’s success.

Conclusion:

By enhancing the aesthetics of otherwise mundane recycling bins, teachers participating in the Recycling Bin Makeover Challenge have made extraordinary strides in promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness within their classrooms. Their creativity and passion for the cause have inspired students to become agents of change, reducing waste and actively participating in recycling efforts. Through such innovative initiatives, teachers continue to play a pivotal role in shaping a more environmentally responsible future generation.

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Matthew Lynch published in Middle School Education

19 Memes Capturing the Reality of Teaching Middle School

Introduction:

Teaching middle school can be a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges, and rewarding moments. Your students are growing and evolving right before your eyes, and you have the amazing job opportunity to help guide them on their journey. While teachers often love their profession, it’s not without its share of laughs along the way. We’ve collected 19 memes that perfectly capture the reality of teaching middle school. Get ready for a mix of humor, nostalgia, and knowing nods.

1. The moment you realize middle schoolers have more energy than should be humanly possible.

Img description: A dog running around with boundless energy.

2. When you catch students passing notes during class.

Img description: An annoyed teacher holding up a confiscated note.

3. That one student who asks questions just to waste class time.

Img description: A suspicious student asking irrelevant questions.

4. Homework? What’s that?

Img description: An unsuspecting student feigning confusion about assignments.

5. When you catch students gossiping in class.

Img description: Two students whispering, with an observant teacher looking on.

6. The feeling when you finally reach Friday.

Img description: A happy and tired teacher celebrating the end of the workweek.

7. When parents say, “You must have so much patience.”

Img description: A frazzled teacher doing their best to stay patient and calm.

8. The joy of not having to share your lunch break with anyone else.

Img description: A satisfied teacher eating lunch alone in peace.

9. The struggle of remembering everyone’s name in the first week.

Img desсription: A teacher looking back and forth between a list of names and faces.

10. When a student thinks they’re being sneaky on their phone during class.

Img description: A teacher rolling their eyes at a not-so-subtle phone user.

11. The myriad of emotions when grading papers.

Img description: A series of expressions reflecting the highs and lows of grading.

12. Doing the math on how many days are left until summer break.

Img description: An excited teacher counting down the days on a calendar.

13. That awkward moment when you run into your students outside of school.

Img description: A startled teacher bumping into students at a local store.

14. Trying to bite your tongue when dealing with difficult parents.

Img description: A teacher calmly handling frustrated parents during a meeting.

15. When you find that ‘aha’ moment for a challenging lesson plan.

Img description: A triumphant teacher celebrating after cracking the perfect lesson plan.

16. When exam time rolls around, and it’s time for ultimate focus.

Img description: Studious children taking exams as a focused teacher observes.

17. The single tear of pride when your students achieve something great.

Img description: A touched teacher watching their students’ accomplishments with joy.

18. When a student tells you they want to be a teacher too.

Img description: A surprised but pleased teacher hearing a student express their career aspirations.

19. Remembering to cherish every teaching moment – even the frustrating ones.

Img description: A contented teacher reflecting on the experiences shared throughout the school year.

Conclusion:

Teaching middle school is an incredible journey filled with highs, lows, challenges, and rewards. These memes highlight moments that many middle school teachers can undoubtedly relate to – from classroom antics to inspiring achievements. As we laugh at these relatable situations, let’s remember to appreciate and cherish all that comes with guiding young minds through some of their most formative years.

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Matthew Lynch published in Higher Education EdTech

It’s Time To Rethink Using These 3 Classic Books in High School English

Introduction:

High school English classes have long been a breeding ground for debate on the relevance and value of the books assigned. While certain works of literature have remained timeless and hold significant merit, there are a few that no longer resonate with today’s students. It’s time to reconsider the inclusion of these three classic books in high school English curriculums.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is an iconic novel, often considered essential reading due to its themes of racial injustice and moral growth. However, some argue that it merely centers around outdated or superficial portrayals of people of color and complex societal issues. Moreover, the story is primarily told through the eyes of a white protagonist, limiting the representation and narrative perspective.

Alternative: Rather than relying solely on this text, educators could introduce other novels exploring racial injustice from diverse perspectives. For instance, Angie Thomas’s “The Hate U Give” offers an authentic portrayal of racism through the eyes of an African American teenager.

2. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye” has been lauded for its striking depiction of teenage angst and disillusionment. However, many students now find the protagonist, Holden Caulfield, unrelatable and even irritating due to his privileged background and lack of emotional maturity.

Alternative: In place of this novel, teachers might consider assigning Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower.” This coming-of-age story similarly confronts mental health issues and teenage struggles but with more relatable characters and a modern setting.

3. Lord of the Flies by William Golding

“Lord of the Flies” by William Golding addresses themes such as human nature and the inherent evil present within society. However, this male-centric novel might not engage all students due to its lack of diversity and character development. Furthermore, the story’s grim portrayal of humanity can be disheartening for young readers.

Alternative: A more suitable alternative might be Octavia Butler’s “Parable of the Sower.” This dystopian novel also delves into human nature and societal issues, while incorporating more diverse perspectives and fostering constructive discussions on community-building and cooperation.

Conclusion:

While these classic novels have served as staples in high school English courses for decades, it is crucial to reevaluate their relevance to contemporary students. Giving a platform to more diverse and relatable works will not only spark engagement but also better prepare young minds to navigate our rapidly changing world.

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Matthew Lynch published in Education

5 Things Parents Can Practice With Their Kids at Home to Help Teachers This Year

Introduction:

The new school year has begun, and teachers are navigating the challenges of educating students in an unpredictable environment. Parents can play a vital role in supporting their children’s education by engaging in productive activities with them at home. Here are five things parents can practice with their kids that will not only benefit students but also provide a helping hand to teachers.

1. Work on Time Management & Organization Skills

Help your child create a schedule for their daily routine, including time for homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Teach them about setting priorities and breaking tasks into smaller steps to improve focus and efficiency. Developing good time management and organizational habits will equip your child with essential life skills and lessen the burden on teachers.

2. Encourage Reading & Comprehension

Make reading fun and engaging for your child by exploring various genres and formats such as graphic novels, e-books, or audiobooks. Help them develop good comprehension skills by asking questions about the text or discussing key themes together. Fostering a love for reading improves vocabulary, enhances critical thinking abilities, and supports success in all areas of learning.

3. Practice Effective Communication

Effective communication is critical to navigating the world around us, and parents can play an essential role in developing their children’s communication skills at home. Encourage face-to-face conversations, share opinions respectfully, and cultivate empathy within interactions. By fostering effective communication skills, you’ll not only promote healthy relationships but also make it easier for teachers to connect with your child in the classroom.

4. Strengthen Problem-Solving Skills

Use real-life situations as opportunities to help your children learn how to think critically and solve problems independently or collaboratively. Engage in games that challenge their thinking or present hypothetical scenarios that require critical thinking and decision-making skills. By practicing problem-solving techniques at home, parents can contribute to the development of their child’s resilience and resourcefulness in the classroom.

5. Promote Social-Emotional Learning

Social-emotional learning plays an indispensable role in a child’s cognitive and behavioral development. Support your child in understanding and managing their emotions, developing empathy, and engaging with peers. Collaborate with your child’s teacher to identify areas needing attention and apply strategies that foster social-emotional growth.

Conclusion:

By taking an active role in your child’s education at home, parents can create a strong foundation for academic success and ease the load on teachers this school year. Following these five practices will not only contribute to your child’s overall well-being but will also strengthen the collaborative bond between home and school, enhancing the educational experience for all.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teachers

Sharing More About My Life Than Ever With Students Right Now

In these changing times, the landscape of education has taken an unexpected turn. As many educators are forced to shift from traditional in-person classrooms to online learning environments, the challenge arises: How do we maintain strong connections with students while physically separated? In response to this question, I’ve begun sharing more about my life than ever with my students.

First, let’s address why it’s important to connect with students on a personal level. Establishing a rapport with learners is crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and trust. This trust not only opens up channels for meaningful communication but also encourages students to take risks in their learning, explore new ideas, and seek help when needed.

That said, the key to humanizing virtual learning experiences lies within the willingness of teachers to showcase their vulnerability and authenticity. In doing so, we must reveal aspects of our own lives that would usually remain hidden within the confines of the physical classroom. Here’s how I’ve been sharing more about myself than ever before.

1. Daily Check-ins

I begin each virtual class session with a daily check-in where I briefly share something about my life outside teaching. It could be a personal anecdote, a funny incident involving my pets or family, or even my struggles juggling life during the pandemic.

As students see me present myself genuinely and unguardedly, they tend to reciprocate by sharing their own stories. This simple act strengthens our bonds and makes us feel less isolated despite being physically apart.

2. Virtual Backgrounds

Most online teaching platforms offer the option to use virtual backgrounds during video conferences. Instead of using generic photos or illustrations, I occasionally choose snapshots from my personal life – my weekend hike, a favorite vacation spot, or even the chaotic state of my home office!

This sparks curiosity among students and leads to engaging discussions about our hobbies and interests outside school hours.

3. Weekly Reflections and Discussions

Inviting deeper conversations about our collective experience, I ask students to reflect on their week – the highs and lows, challenges faced, and successes celebrated. I lead by example and share my reflections first, demonstrating vulnerability and encouraging them to be open.

By understanding each other’s struggles and triumphs, we create a sense of shared humanity – making it easier for students to feel connected even when they don’t share a physical space.

While some might argue that sharing more about my personal life blurs the professional boundaries, I believe that showcasing our humanity is crucial in this changing educational climate. We can’t replicate the warmth and depth of human interaction through screens alone.

By sharing more about ourselves than ever before, we forge stronger connections with our students and create a safe space for them to navigate the challenges of online learning. And amid all the uncertainty in the world right now, these connections are truly invaluable.

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Matthew Lynch published in Outdoor Learning

Exploring Hands-On Science Through Nature Works

Introduction

Science is all around us, and what better way to learn about it than by engaging with nature and the environment? Nature works, or natural processes that occur in the world, are an excellent way for students and individuals to comprehend scientific concepts through hands-on experience. By diving into these exciting hands-on science activities, one can gain an appreciation for how nature works intricately within our surroundings.

Activity 1: Investigating Plant Growth

A fundamental aspect of nature lies in understanding the process of plant growth and photosynthesis. In this activity, participants can plant various types of seeds (beans, sunflowers, or peas) and observe their growth over time. By measuring plant growth and comparing different variables such as sunlight exposure, soil composition, and watering frequency, learners can engage in a hands-on experiment that demonstrates the importance of environmental factors in plant development.

Activity 2: Exploring Erosion Effects

Erosion is a natural process that shapes landscapes over time. Participants can explore how erosion affects soils and rocks by using simple materials like sandpaper to simulate the impact of wind or water on rocks. This activity helps learners understand how Earth’s surface changes over time due to weathering and erosion.

Activity 3: Building a Water Cycle Model

Water is essential for life on Earth, so understanding the water cycle is crucial. Participants can create a small-scale model of the water cycle using a transparent container, water, plastic wrap, rocks or pebbles, and soil. By observing how water evaporates from the soil surface, condenses on the plastic wrap, and ultimately falls back down as precipitation (rain), this hands-on activity offers an engaging way to learn about this vital natural process.

Activity 4: Observing Decomposition Process

Decomposition is an essential part of nature’s nutrient recycling process. Participants can study decomposition rates by creating a small compost bin using organic materials like fruit and vegetable scraps, newspaper, soil, and leaves. By tracking the breakdown of these materials over time, participants gain valuable insight into the decomposition process and the importance of recycling organic waste.

Conclusion

Nature works are fundamental processes that occur within our environment, and they provide excellent opportunities for learning at any age. These hands-on science activities allow students to engage with natural phenomena and apply scientific concepts in practical ways. By exploring these activities and making connections to real-world situations, learners can develop a broader understanding of how nature works while fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder for the world around them.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teaching Strategies, Tactics, and Methods

I Set Up a Breakfast Club to Engage My Virtual Students

Introduction

As the pandemic forced many schools to shift towards remote teaching, teachers around the world faced a common challenge: keeping their students engaged in a virtual environment. With students dealing with factors such as Zoom fatigue, technological issues, and adjusting to working from home, maintaining a sense of community and connection seemed harder than ever. That’s when I decided to set up a ‘Breakfast Club’ for my virtual students.

The Birth of the Breakfast Club

The idea of the Breakfast Club was inspired by the classic 1980s film about students from different social cliques who find common ground during detention. I thought creating a space for my students to connect and engage outside the usual class framework would help us bond over something authentic and fun.

The club would meet virtually once a week before school started, with everyone logging on from their homes. The main purpose was to create an informal platform where students could chat, discuss their interests, share breakfast ideas, or simply enjoy a meal together.

Engagement Starts at Breakfast

I started by promoting the club through announcements during virtual classes and our online learning platform. At first, only a few students showed interest, but as word spread, more joined in the following weeks. To facilitate interaction and make everyone feel welcome, we had open topics of discussion, shared stories of what we’d been doing at home, and even exchanged recipes or recommendations for what to eat during our get-togethers.

Benefits of the Breakfast Club

Over time, it became evident that the Breakfast Club was helping my students feel more connected not only with each other but also with me as their teacher. Some key benefits included:

1. Breaking down barriers: The informal setting allowed students to open up more than they would have in class. This helped them get to know one another better and develop friendships.

2. Boosting motivation: Getting up early to participate in the club together gave students a sense of responsibility and commitment. This translated into more motivation during regular class hours.

3. Encouraging creativity: Students showcased their creativity not only in the breakfasts they prepared but also in the conversations they led and the ideas they shared.

4. Enhancing mental health: The Breakfast Club provided invaluable social support, contributing to a decrease in feelings of isolation commonly associated with remote learning.

Conclusion

With the success of the Breakfast Club, I am reminded that it’s crucial to find innovative ways to engage our students, especially in trying times. It’s essential to foster a sense of belonging within our virtual classrooms and nurture the human connections that make learning more effective and enjoyable for everyone involved. The Breakfast Club taught me that sometimes, all it takes is an open forum and a shared meal to spark engagement, friendship, and learning among our students.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teachers

The Best and Worst Aspects of Being a Unicorn Teacher

Introduction

Imagine being a one-of-a-kind educator, a teacher with the ability to impart magic and wonder to their students－a unicorn teacher. Though enchanting and unique, being a unicorn teacher has its fair share of ups and downs. This article will explore the best and worst aspects of being a mystical educator.

The Best Aspects

1. Magical Abilities: Unicorn teachers possess an extraordinary range of magical skills that can make learning fun, engaging, and awe-inspiring for their students. These include the ability to levitate objects, conjure glittering illustrations, and even create holographic simulations for history lessons.

2. Enthusiastic Students: The majesty and mystery of a unicorn teacher often captivate even the most reluctant learners. Students clamor to attend classes with these special educators who transform mundane subjects into extraordinary adventures.

3. Recognition: Because of their rare nature, unicorn teachers are greatly admired by their peers as well as parents who seek out their expertise in magical subjects. They earn recognition and respect throughout the educational community.

4. Inspiring Creativity: Unicorn teachers not only use their magic to demonstrate concepts but also inspire creativity in their students. Their whimsical approach opens up new possibilities for artistic expression and innovative problem-solving skills.

The Worst Aspects

1. High Expectations: With great power comes great responsibility – being a unicorn teacher is not without its challenges. The high expectations placed upon these magical educators can create immense pressure to outperform non-magical colleagues consistently.

2. Limited Resources: Due to the scarcity of unicorn-specific teaching supplies, finding everything required for lesson planning can be both time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, schools may lack facilities to accommodate a unicorn’s unique needs fully.

3. Isolation: Being the only one of their kind in a school environment can make it challenging to connect with other teachers on a deeper level. Building relationships with colleagues might prove to be difficult as unicorn teachers may feel alienated both professionally and socially.

4. Misunderstandings: Bridging the gap between the magical and non-magical world is complex. Some students and faculty members may find it hard to accept the existence of magic, leading to skepticism, ridicule, or even discrimination.

Conclusion

Being a unicorn teacher is a mixed blessing. While this rare breed of educator can enthrall students with their magical prowess, they often face adversity, isolation, and unrealistic expectations from those around them. Ultimately, the unique abilities and experiences of a unicorn teacher make them an invaluable asset within the realms of education and inspiration.

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Matthew Lynch published in Education

Help! Our Teacher of the Year Program Feels Like a Popularity Contest and I’m Over It

Introduction:

In recent years, Teacher of the Year programs have become increasingly popular, celebrating outstanding educators for their dedication and commitment towards their students’ success. However, some critics argue that these awards have devolved into mere popularity contests, threatening to unravel the very foundation on which they were built. Consequently, we need to explore and address the underlying issues leading these vital recognitions to lose their meaning.

The Popularity Contest Dilemma:

At first glance, Teacher of the Year awards seem like an excellent way to recognize teachers who consistently go above and beyond. However, it’s hard to ignore that some deserving candidates miss out due solely to a lack of personal connections or skill in social networking. This creates an unhealthy competition where teachers focus more on maintaining likability rather than emphasizing the educational growth and development of their students.

The Downfalls of a Popularity-Driven System:

By turning these prestigious awards into popularity contests, we risk detracting from:

1. Merit-based recognition: When likability becomes the gauge for an award-winning teacher, it undermines those educators who wholeheartedly prioritize their students’ progress over personal recognition.

2. Genuine improvement: Schools should focus on appreciating and cultivating quality education by encouraging all teachers to grow and innovate in their teaching methods even when it means defying conventional expectations.

3. Waning interest: Teachers who witness colleagues winning awards out of popularity may feel discouraged from participating or put less effort into improving themselves if they believe recognition is based on factors other than their ability to teach effectively.

Creating a More Equitable System:

To overcome these challenges, education leaders should consider implementing these changes:

1. Establish clear criteria: By developing specific rubrics measuring skills such as class engagement, objective achievement, and progressive teaching methods, we can assess teachers more objectively and avoid favoritism.

2. Emphasize collaboration: Encourage professional growth through mentorship opportunities and collaborative projects. This will foster a supportive environment for diverse teaching styles and approaches without compromising on quality education.

3. Incorporate student feedback: Students are essential stakeholders in the education process; therefore, their input should play a crucial role in evaluations. Combining this information with clear criteria will enable more well-rounded assessments of teacher effectiveness.

4. Choose a diverse selection panel: Avoid potential biases by constituting a selection committee composed of teachers, administrators, parents, and students who can consider different perspectives when choosing award recipients.

Conclusion:

While Teacher of the Year programs may have initially aimed to honor excellent educators, their transformation into popularity contests risks diminishing their value and purpose. By promoting an equitable system that prioritizes merit and the growth of both teachers and students, we can help reinstate these awards’ original intention. By evolving how we celebrate exceptional teachers, we encourage every educator to keep striving for success in the noble pursuit of empowering future generations.

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Matthew Lynch published in Books

‘Joy Luck Club’ and Beyond: The Best Amy Tan Books for the Classroom

Introduction

Amy Tan, an acclaimed Asian-American author, has penned numerous novels that depict the lives of Chinese-American families and delve into the cultural complexities and intergenerational tensions. Her skillful storytelling and intricate characters offer rich reading experiences for students in every classroom. In this article, we will explore some of Tan’s best works to incorporate into your curriculum.

1. The Joy Luck Club (1989)

‘The Joy Luck Club’ is Tan’s debut novel and remains one of her most iconic works. This powerful story comprises interconnected narratives of four Chinese immigrant mothers and their American-born daughters. The novel explores themes of cultural identity, mother-daughter relationships, and the emotional hardships faced by immigrants as they navigate two worlds. This classic piece of literature offers a wealth of discussion opportunities for students, facilitating an understanding of diverse perspectives.

2. The Kitchen God’s Wife (1991)

This novel closely follows the life of Chinese-born Winnie Louie as she shares herStories with her daughter Pearl. As Winnie narrates her experiences surviving an abusive marriage in China, students gain insight into Chinese culture and history. ‘The Kitchen God’s Wife’ is a moving tale that emphasizes the importance of family ties and perseverance, fostering empathy among readers.

3. The Bonesetter’s Daughter (2001)

In ‘The Bonesetter’s Daughter,’ Tan introduces protagonist Ruth Young, who discovers a manuscript authored by her mother LuLing that details her life in China before immigrating to the United States. The novel alternates between Ruth’s life in San Francisco as she cares for her aging mother battling dementia and LuLing’s life growing up in China in the early 1900s as a bonesetter’s apprentice.

The Bonesetter’s Daughter is an engaging exploration of love, sacrifice, and cultural identity that presents mature topics suitable for older students.

4. Saving Fish from Drowning (2005)

Although Tan’s ‘Saving Fish from Drowning’ veers away from her typical formula of multigenerational, female-centric narratives, it provides significant opportunities for classroom discussion. The novel follows a group of American tourists who embark on a harrowing adventure in the jungles of Burma. With themes of cultural clashes, morality, and political turmoil, this novel pushes students to ponder ethical questions and fosters critical thinking skills.

Conclusion

Amy Tan’s enticing novels capture the essence of Asian-American experiences with her candid exploration of cultural identity, family dynamics, and personal growth. Incorporating Tan’s novels into your curriculum will encourage inclusivity, empathy, and understanding among your students. Add ‘The Joy Luck Club,’ ‘The Kitchen God’s Wife,’ ‘The Bonesetter’s Daughter,’ and ‘Saving Fish from Drowning’ to your reading list to offer engaging texts that broaden cultural horizons.

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