Thursday, September 10, 2009

How will you treat your students?

"The Depth of your heart determines the height of your dreams" (page 70)

I agree with the five significant concepts that the book says enhances positive expectations in the classroom. Name, Please, Thank you, Smile, and Love.

Addressing a child or anyone for that matter is very important. It not only shows respect but it shows that you think they are important as an individual. You are distinguishing them as a person rather than as, "just another student." Names are personal and a child could easily become offended if the pronunciation is more often than not mispronounced. Both my first name and last name are "uncommon" and I remember as a child holding my breath on the first days of school in hope the teacher, just this once, would get both names correct. Addressing a child by name lets the child know you care.

Please and Thank you I could argue are two of the most important words in one's vocabulary. These words show a tremendous amount of courtesy and respect for the child. These words can make an unpleasant situation of punishment more pleasant. For example if a student is not doing their work, "Suzy, please begin your assignment. Thank you." is more respectful and inviting to the student as compared to " Suzy, do your work." Please and thank you show appreciation to the child and it is your way of showing you appreciate their cooperation. Kindness is contagious.

Smiling is the sign the body makes that says "Welcome." A smile, as said many times before, really is worth a thousand words. Smiling is learned through behavior and what is better than a classroom of smiling children who are enjoying their day? A smile is a very effective way to create peace and harmony throughout the classroom. Give your muscles a break and smile, it takes more to frown.

Love ties all of these elements together. The best teachers I had were the most lovable. You are a role model in your student's life. They, whether you like it or not, will copy your behaviors in one way or another. You should be enhancing the quality of their life in the classroom by showing them love through your body language and what you say. Positivity, smiles, kindness, and respect are equal up to love. Listen to your students; care for them and show the gift that costs nothing, love.

1 comment:

  1. Wow, Gia. This is an amazingly well-written and well-thought-through post. Good job. I'm glad to see you're using this tool exactly as I'd hoped.
    Keith

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