Particles of Literature

I plan on teaching Alternative Education, so when considering how I will run my Literature classroom I also need to consider each student and their needs. Alternative students generally fall through the cracks in traditional classrooms, which leads me to believe they need to be taught with less than traditional methods.

I have a very strong interest in integrating technology in my classrooms. When I have the resources I will join ISTE (International Society of Technology Education) to further my knowledge and gain new ideas. Also think I will employ Webquests in my lessons. I think webquests are interesting and a fun way for student to learn. I have every intention of using message boards and blogs. I believe anonymous (to other students) sharing on message-boards opens door for those who may be afraid to contribute in class. Blogs and pod-casts are fun, and interesting sources of contribution that I think would go over really well with alternative students. These methods may require extra monitoring but I think the worth out weighs the extra time needed.

Extra instruction of the technology will probably be a requirement. I have an above average proficiency with most of the technology, and I now have basic knowledge of pod-casts. I think the added instruction is crucial for the students. The students will absolutely need to know how to use these different methods of technology to advance themselves, just like literature helps the reader gain knowledge of themselves and the world around them.

I've also been thinking about vocabulary words. Rather than loading students down with a list to mine from reading material, I think I'd rather use a word-a-day type method. For example: I write the word and the definition on the board and challenge students to use the word throughout the day for points. Points can be earned for special treats like free book of choice, movie ticket, or lunch on the teacher.

I found out recently I’m going to put these idea into practice earlier than I thought. I recently got a job at the Muskegon YFCA. My boss asked me to also mentor and tutor the teens that hang around there. They are looking for someone who cares. I’m going to try get them interested in reading by approaching them with some of the YA books I’ve learned about throughout this semester. We are setting up a summer book club camp, among some other ideas. It’s bother exciting and frightening for me as my first experience influencing youth –other than my daughter.