Today I've experimented with using some different language. I have started calling my students readers and writers and learners. I have known that the language that I use with my students is so very important and today using these labels really worked for me. I have a student who is working with me to recover most of his 7th grade year. This is a student who has really struggled in all aspects of school including with me. Today was no exception. After having a really rough day together, I decided I needed to try something different. We discussed the learning that I had done the week before. I told this student that I learned that ALL students are genius. After a little more discussion the student grabbed a post it note and made this sign.
This post made me burst out laughing (GREAT picture!) and almost cry. How neat for him to want to "save his genius for tomorrow"! The tough part will be getting him to understand that it doesn't live on the post-it note... It's all inside. What a fantastic lesson, Mrs. Voyles! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Kelly! It really was fun to watch it unfold!
ReplyDeleteSo I have to know... how was he today? Was he using his inner genius? Did he even remember? Your post was so hopeful for a student that many seemed to give up on.
ReplyDeleteBeth
Way cool Sarah! Funny how things can change from one "what seems like a small thing" happening ... keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteHe did use his genius today! He actually wanted to make genius signs for everyone in my classroom today.
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful to watch geniuses coming out of their shells in our classrooms, isn't it? My teaching has been transformed since our few days in Cherokee. Thanks for daring to share YOUR genius with the world! Denise
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