Teaching: It's not for the weak

Successes for today--Number 1:  A powerpoint presentation that effectively (in my opinion) shows students how to write a thesis statement and incorporate research in a paper.  For the last two years, I've been working through the trial and error methods in order to determine the most effective way to share this information.  Let me tell you, some of those methods have been sad.

I've been frustrated; the students have been frustrated.  I was ready to throw in the towel.  Thankfully, I found some really great guides on the internet and used them to compile some pieces of information that have worked really well so far.  Apparently, the key is to break the research paper down into bite-sized pieces as the students need it.  I had been front-loading--that is, providing ALL the information before they needed any of it.  Simply put, it was information overload.

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Successes for the day--Number 2:  A former student came by today to see if I would be willing to look over a paper introduction.  I didn't mind and we had a nice chat.  He told me about his college English class, but the best part was this (which I am putting in quotes even though it's not word for word):  "I'm so glad I had your class, Mrs. Houseman.  Half of the stuff the other students really seemed to have a problem with I already knew because of you."

I can't tell you how great it feels to have someone validate your work.

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Still on my plate: The first speech team meeting, head dean obligations for the junior class, grading, laundry and I probably really need to shave my legs sometime in the near future.

I've been really tired this week.  There are multiple reasons I haven't been able to sleep, but it doesn't keep me from feeling frustrated.  And I am.  I'm just frustrated.

I AM thankful to have experienced two successes in the same day.  It's rare, but maybe I'm due for a series of successes in the coming months.

It sure would be nice.