Connecting Learning

Growing up with three brothers, I have spent many hours watching football.   However, this is not a sports post...it is about the importance of connecting learning to our students' lives.

I have been struggling with helping my students, especially my boys, maintain momentum second semester.  They are doing the bare minimum and have very poor attitudes about school.   So, when I heard the following quote Sunday morning, "You can't play soft in practice and be tough in the game,"  I knew I would use it with my students.  

Today, we had a discussion about the quote above.  We discussed how during a football game, it is important for players to give their best during practice, so they are prepared for game day.  Then talked about how they have to prepare for tests (i.e. classroom tests, benchmarks, district assessments, and GMAS)  by studying and giving their all in class.  They began to make the connection that how they practice correlates with how they perform (i.e. if I continuously rush through my school work and do the minimum,  then I am going to have that same attitude on test day)

The highlight of today's discussion on giving their best for the remained of the year was when one student raised his hand today and said, "Just like the Falcons lost momentum the second-half Mrs. Martin?"  I said, "Yes, and you see what happened to them, except if you lose momentum you risk failing!"  It was great seeing them make the connection.

It was a great reminder for me, as a teacher, to connect learning to my students lives.  As a leader, it reminds me of the importance of making sure I am taking the needed steps