I never envisioned myself teaching middle school when I decided to be a teacher, but I am so glad I did. I am an 8th grade English and Social Studies teacher with a 6th grade advisory class that meets once a week.
I can’t even decide how to describe my 8th graders because they are always changing and evolving.
With that in mind, I would call them resilient. They experience so much in that 9 months, and it amazes me at times when they go from crying over a fight between friends to writing a compelling essay about racism and justice in To Kill A Mockingbird.
My 6th graders are brave, and they’re fighters. Everything inside them is telling them to protect themselves and lash out at others, and yet they approach learning with such a pure curiosity. We tackle some pretty big social and emotional concepts in advisory, and while some kids may feel uncomfortable with giving an honest answer, there’s always the one that says something brave and personal that is met with compassion from their peers.
My Project
Having the ability to amplify their own voice always gets kids excited, and even as an adult I will admit it's always a rush to speak into a microphone. EVERYONE can hear you, and they HAVE TO listen! A throwable microphone is perfect for a middle school classroom because they have a lot to say but are nervous to say it. But if everyone is going to be heard no matter what, it invites them to take a risk. It also encourages participation during academic discussions because even if you don't want to talk about Civics, you might want to use the mic. This piece of equipment would be a huge asset to both our academic and community-building activities.
By practicing Community Circles in our classrooms, we enrich our relationships with our students and can help them forge new ones with each other.
We usually have a talking piece to use during these activities, but because they're kids, the symbolism gets lost and people either start talking over each other, or speak quickly and pass it off because they are worried they won't say the "right" thing. I also have students who aren't as comfortable speaking to the larger group, but who still have things to say. If everyone's voice is amplified to the same level, it shows that everyone's thoughts are important.
With the Qball Throwable Microphone my talking piece can be an invitation to learn more about someone and what they have to say. It will also show the kids that I am invested in their ideas and feelings and that I think they are all worthy of being heard.
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