Lively discussion, strong opinions, and good debate are all part of the daily experience in my classroom. Yes, my students are creative eager learners who are willing to expand their brains for growth, but most of them are from economically disadvantaged homes and have tested below the state and national reading level. In turn, these kids often lack stimulation and have not been challenged to think critically on their own. They need that instigation (and confidence built)--from me, their teacher.
One of my main goals in teaching is to encourage my students to think intensively and critically for themselves, and .
Designing lessons that require the child to organize, synthesize, analyze, apply and support their thoughts is essential. Most of these students want easy answers or ones that are given to them--but as their teacher, I must demand and expect deeper and more complex responses, ones that require critical thought and written support for their stance. To reach the above goal, I use well-written and engaging literature such as The Lightning Thief, by rick Riordan.
My Project
This story is an engaging tale with adventure, mystery and fun and will engage my students to read, write and think! Lively discussion, strong opinions, and good debate are all part of the daily experience in my classroom. Yes, my students are creative eager learners who are willing to expand their brains for growth, but most of them are from economically disadvantaged homes and have tested below the state and national reading level. In turn, these kids often lack stimulation and have not been challenged to think critically on their own. They need that instigation (and confidence built)--from me, their teacher.
Designing lessons that require the child to organize, synthesize, analyze, apply and support their thoughts in writing is essential.
Therefore, one of my top goals in teaching is to encourage my students to think intensively and critically for themselves--and then have them write well-written essays, responses and even poetry. Most of these students want easy answers or ones that are given to them--but as their teacher, I must demand and expect deeper and more complex responses, ones that require critical thought and written support for their stance. To reach the above goal I use well-written literature, current events, real people, and various forms of technology as tools.
It is exciting to see the confidence grow in these children as they learn to naturally think intensively and engage their own brain... thinking for themselves and putting their thoughts in well-written compositions.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Chaffee and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.