What is my point? My point is that in a stressful, demanding, high-tempo environment like this, it can be hard to find the beauty in it, the opportunity to be a little creative and to have fun. I have found one way to accomplish this human need: dessert. And no, I don't mean eating it! I mean decorating :)
Although the kitchen staff prepare, cook, and assemble everything on our menu, it is up to us servers to decorate the cakes and make them look delicious! Here is an example of a cheesecake that has had some TLC from yours truly - doesn't that just make you want to attack it with a spoon?
So, amongst the late food, testy patrons and hectic atmosphere, I have found a way to find a little peace and joy in my work. And art was the source.
Finding opportunities for students to find this peace may be a very effective classroom strategy, in whatever realm they find to be most relaxing. Some students may find that math is this outlet for them, or running. I can picture a 'free' period once in a while where students are encouraged to challenge themselves by choosing the subject they enjoy the most and working on the 'next step' which could be some sort of enrichment or work from the next years' curriculum. This way students are always being challenged and have the opportunity to blossom in the subject of their choice.
Oh that's so fun! I would love to have you as a server! I bet you get great tips!
ReplyDeleteJes, that is so fun, I would love my cake to have messages on it before I devour it :) Just adding a little art makes such a huge emotional connection, do it in teaching too somehow and you'll be a rockstar teacher!
ReplyDeleteThanks guys! You are too kind :)
ReplyDeleteLooks like you had fun with this! Your idea of time to work on projects students choose is something I believe in more strongly as time goes on, although it was already part of my teaching before I left the classroom. I gave all students "basic" work, and then invited them to choose from an array of "challenges". We also had a designated time each week to revise work as needed and prepare it for the portfolio that they would present to parents at the end of each term. Although you don't see yourself as creative, you intuitively understand the essence of creativity, which I believe is personal choice. And you are creative in your vision of how you can make opportunities for choice for your students. I wish I could visit your classes in a few years and see how it works out!
ReplyDeleteThank you Willow! Your ideas have allowed me to expand on my own and believe them to be possible! I love the portfolio idea!
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