I found it interesting that Atwell tells us the about the word "story" and how it can be traced to the Greek eidenai, which means "to know" (3). I am doing my unit on short stories, so I thought this would be something to share with my students, as well.
When reading about Atwell's student, Jeff, I immediately thought of differentiated instruction and how that type of instruction could have benefited Jeff. I gathered that Atwell was uncomfortable with the way that Jeff was going about his writing assignments. She seemed to want him to write during class like the other students, instead of drawing. I think that Atwell should have supported Jeff's learning because he was intrinsically motivated to write his stories based on his drawings. Jeff seemed to be more of a visual learner, and differentiated instruction helps support different learning styles and minds.
I like what Atwell says on page 15: "Freedom of choice does not undercut structure." I think being flexible is part of what makes a good teacher. In my observations at Normandy High School, I've seen my teacher push back due dates, make accommodations for certain classes, and ask for student input. Atwell says that working with students is important and they have ideas, too. I also think that when students have a say in what they are learning, how they will be graded, and rules of the classroom they will be more motivated to do the work.
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I agree with your opinion on giving students choice. Everyone learns better when they are learning about something they are interested in. Giving students the right to choose their writing topics and what they read is a great way to get kids passionate about English! You are so right when you speak of flexability as an aspect of being a teacher. Getting student input and modifying assignments will be a part of our job. Learning how to do this effectively will be challenging, but I know it will be worth it.
ReplyDeleteWhile I understood Atwell's frustration with her student, Jeff, I also wish she would have been more supportive with his style and writing process. No one person or student learns the same. One thing I have noticed about my own writing is that I need to write a paper twice before I turn it in. The first draft is always terrible and it seems like I barely did any work (even though this draft takes the most work.) My second draft is the one i always turn in. It makes sense and usually receives a good grade. Just like Jeff needed to draw before writing, I need to have my terrible first draft. Students should be encouraged in their learning processed no matter what they are. This is because they are ultimately learning. I feel that this type of flexibility helps students achieve to their fullest potentials.
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