EDRG 3321-Wed.

This past week in class we discussed Chapter 1 and 2 and learned about how we should make reading fun and understand that there are many cultures in a classroom. Because the reading interest declines in teenagers, teachers should instill a good reading habit in children and make it enjoyable at a young age. In Chapter 1, it discusses what teachers teach and believe has a long-term effect on a child. Teachers should believe that every child can learn, despite any learning disability. The chapter states that teacher's should use strategic and explicit training. Also, teachers should stay current with children's literature. The classroom should be surrounded with children's literature and not solely textbooks. Every child should have a selection of books to choose from. Allowing a child to choose what they like can encourage them to read, rather than assigning a book.

In Chapter 2, it covers the culture brought into a classroom. There are instances of mismatched cultures in a classroom. This meaning that not all children's cultures match the school culture. This can affect a child in a negative way. A child may feel inadequate in their work and not able to relate to other children in the classroom. It is important to accomodate each child in a classroom. Teachers should meet the needs of all learners. Although some students may come with disabilities, they should not be treated differently than students with other cultures. This is when the role of an educator should take place. An educator should guide each student and their work. I believe that a teacher should maintain patience, along with a positive attitude. There should be nothing but encouraging and uplifting words with students who show struggle. It would only make a child feel less adequate if they were spoken negatively to.

These chapters taught me that teachers have a very important role and effect in a child's life. We can make a tremendous difference simply with our words and care. There will be times that we have students who are struggling or have a negative attitude in their schoolwork, but we can change and help improve their outlook. We must constantly keep in mind that what we are doing presently will affect a student's future in some way. I would hope that my teaching would play a positive role in some child's life.