the flow

For the last two days, I have not recognized my American Lit class. Where once there was disorder, there is now organization. Where once there was disruption, there is now industriousness. Where once there was attitude, there is now, dare I say, engagement???

They are sitting in their desks, working really hard, helping each other, sharing, asking questions and, gasp!, wanting to go to the library for extra information. Today, I tried to fake them out. I told them were really doing well, so I would play some music. Usually, for me anyway, disorder usually follows any music playing.
    "What is this sh*t?"
    "Can we put in my cd?"
    "Tone has 50 Cent. Can we put that in?"
    "I'm going to vomit."
Today, there was quiet acceptance. It was like they didn't even notice--because they were working.

It was so freaking fabulous.

I felt like the queen of my classroom. I floated on air. I reminded myself to post about it so I could have something to read on the days when I am utter crap-o-la in the teaching department.

Clearly, there must be a full moon or something, but I do like my assignment. We are finished reading the transcendentalists. They are creating their own high schools that are based on transcendental beliefs. Download trans_high_school.doc

Comments

[Ginny]

Wow! Full moons make my kids act like freak shows! Aren't you the lucky one?

[Kates]

My kids are acting wonderful too! Ever since they got back from Spring break they have been a new bunch--hope they remain that way---knock on wood.

What music are you playing? I was playing Postal Service at the beginning of the year to moans----but now kids are telling me "Miss F, I love the Postal Service, they are so cool--do you listen to Death Cab too?" Of course I tell them------and then asked them if they are embarassed that their teacher knew of them first....

Once when I was teaching h.s., a period of remarkable mellowness and lack of drama/fights was followed (and ended) by the busting up of a school vicodin ring!

Since your students are being industrious and not merely nonviolent, I'm sure they're under the influence of your interesting and engaging assignment, not drugs.

[jeremy]

whenever my freshman comp students act this way, especially when they all look at their desktops, the first thing i do is check to make sure i haven't forgotten to zip up. very subtly, of course--the last thing i need is a lawsuit for lewd gesturing.

[jeremy]

i can't believe i just wrote "subtly"--what am i, british?