3rd Response

For this response you should have read September 30th up to but not including November 5th.

There are some truly powerful cultural messages learned by Esme in this section.  Her experience that not all parents react the way her parents would have is one I can certainly relate to.  The realization that she was responsible for a child getting beaten is a feeling no teacher wants but can be assured will likely occur at least once.

We also see Esme really struggle with her decision to put the classroom library away till the book is returned.  This is one of those moments when what she knew most would expect her to do and what she truly, internally WANTED to do were opposite of what would set the tone, standards, and expectations in her classroom for the rest of the year.  You can almost feel her angst at several times during this section.

Now it's your turn...

Reaction
Tell us about one part in this section to which you found yourself reacting emotionally.  What was the section, what emotions did it evoke in you and why do you think this was the case?

Connections
Can you make any connections between any of the ideas or things from this section to any of your Junior year courses...Logical Thought, Creative Expressions, Child Development?

Extensions
Pick one of the following situations and tell me what you would have done...
1.  The class library theft
2.  Valerie's mom insisting Esme put the books back
3.  Watching Twanette's mom abuse her because of something she said
4.  The gang attacking the school bus, recognizing a student in the gang, and the principal doing nothing
5.  Having a parent tell you they can't afford something you're requiring
6.  Having a group of students cheer at hearing about the oppression of another group

Next week our section will run from November 5th through page 71.  We'll not get into part II yet.

I still have a few blank spots by those summer book choices so if you've not told me which you're reading for the summer...let me know soon please.

I hope you're all enjoying these leisurely days and finding some time to do something for yourself once in a while!

Missing you all something terrible!
Love ya!
Mean it!
Dr. VW