Cultural Discontinuities

1. This section discussed two potentially conflicting ideas: accepting and valuing cultural differences and accommodation without assimilation. How do these ideas relate to this dilemma?

• In the story, the character is invited to an awards ceremony at a local church of Pacific Islanders to honor students from their school. Many things happened throughout the ceremony that were normal for the Pacific Islanders, but totally foreign to the guest. It made the guest really uncomfortable, but s/he struggle to remain quiet as to show respect and acceptance of their cultural norms. By doing so, s/he is trying to accommodate their differences, but it's putting a great amount of strain on her/him because s/he doesn't know what to do in the situation.

Teaching Students Who Are at Risk

1. Classroom management is a perennial concern for beginning teachers. Which approach to classroom management makes the most sense? What about instruction?

• I think Emma's approach makes the most sense. Allowing students to move around the room, get into groups, interact with the teacher, and take some responsibility in their own education leads to more successful students who retain more of what they've learned. They also learn valuable skills in working with others and expressing their own thoughts and ideas. It's important for them to be treated like people and not lined up in quiet, little rows by an authoritarian teacher, and it's also important for them to know that you're a human being too. So, like, smile and provide feedback. Don't tell them what to do and what to think at every turn. (:

What Kind of School Is Right for You?

1. Which advantages and disadvantages of different types of districts are most important to you?

• Small class sizes would be pretty nice. I think being able to afford each student the attention that they need would be important to me. I'm not worried about the pay - I could do many other things if it was money that I wanted. Chances for growth, leadership, and choice are important. The school having up to date technology would be nice. High standards are really important. I want to know that the other teachers and staff are committed to teaching. Diversity is important among students and staff. Some rural communities can be stuck in their ways and make reform challenging when needed. I come from a low income family, so I think I might enjoy the challenge of trying to work with students in lower economic classes.