Essay 1

I finally finished reading and commenting on the first essays for my 9:30 class and have begun reviewing the essays for my 12:30 class. While scores are somewhat low (as is expected at this point in the semester), almost everyone is at least very close to a 'C.' It's very interesting to see where everyone's strengths are. Some students are great at illustrating their points while others have incorporated some quite fabulously original figurative langauge. Two students have shined in the area of analysis (very impressive at this point in the semester), and a few have phenomenal titles. Most impressive, however, are the extraordinary ideas my students have developed. Almost everyone's essays are unique in some way. I attribute this to the invention activities. I will be interested to see how my students feel about the invention work when they complete course surveys at the end of the semester. I imagine that most of them currently find it pointless, but I bet those who take the invention process seriously will change their minds.

Today's Classes

Today's classes were very exciting, especially my afternoon class. They usually need some prodding to say anything, but today conversation took off like a lightning bolt.  I actually had to make sure that everyone who wanted to say something had a chance to talk.  It was very refreshing to hear everyone's views and have some friendly, academic argument.  

The conversation did present some concerns though - not about the class itself but about how elitist some students responses were.  I don't understand "better-than-you" arguments.  The most ironic part about any of us buying into elitist ideology is that none of us will likely ever be in a position where no one is "above" us.  Buying into the class system is a mistake that only helps perpetuate the system and secure the position of others who can exert power over us.  People are just people, amalgamations of choices and their consequences, nothing more, nothing less. 

Despite those concerns, however, I think most of my students have some good ideas as they approach the next essay assignment.  I can't wait to see the invention work they turn in on Tuesday!