Why Early Career English Teachers?

I'm glad we are reading "Early Career English Teachers in Action." Just from reading the first chapter, an introduction to the book, I can tell that I'll get a lot of valuable perspective from all the stories from actual new teachers and their experiences.

I'm honestly quite nervous and intimidated for my first time leading a class--but also equally excited. Reading other teachers experiences will help ease my nervousness and help myself mentally and emotionally prepare for the day I step into the classroom as an official teacher for the first time.

I have a friend who has been teaching elementary for a few years now and she shares stories with me, but this book is closer to what I want to do--teach high school English, so it'll be very helpful.

Thoughts on Nothing But The Truth, by Avi

From http://blogs.isb.bj.edu.cn/18andrewl/files/2014/09/B.png

I just finished reading "Nothing but the Truth" by Avi.

I really enjoyed the multi-genre and multiple POV's. Reminded me of a bunch of circles intertwined so you saw all sorts of views and bits of the story.

I empathized with Miss Narwin, although I do think she was being too stubborn and strict for it to escalate to suspension. She let Philip get under her skin, which is bound to happen with some students I suppose. After teaching so long maybe she just got burned out. Her wanting to go to that conference showed that she was aware of that and needed a refresher to continue teaching and to reach kids of present day.

The ending was silly. Really ended abruptly and I honestly couldn't see Philip crying in his new class.

Interesting read though--mostly realistic except the very last page.

Literacy Autobiography paper

For our first paper in English 2790, we had to write our literacy autobiography, looking into our past at who and what influenced our reading and writing background and interest.

Not only was it an interesting exercise, but amusing to look back at my childhood work and second grade report card. Even at such a young age I was showing signs of a deep love of writing and reading, and my teacher, Mrs. Dixon, noticed it.

I laughed pretty hard at the first story I wrote and illustrated, "The Mouse," that my mom fortunately saved and sent to me for this paper. I'm lucky she has always valued my love of writing and nurtured my reading skills.

Some day I hope to recognize and encourage a love of reading and writing in my students and if they don't have an appreciation of literary works or understand the power of their writing, I hope to show them it.

The beginning

Hello! After a few years of being out in the real world working a full-time job, I realized I felt empty and like I was not where I belonged. So, after lots of thought and tons of support from my boyfriend, family and friends, I've decided to take the plunge to return to school and earn my teaching certification.

It's surreal to be a full time college student again--don't think it's hit me yet! Half of me is starting to feel overwhelmed with the growing homework load and course work while the other half is excited and ready to get things done, especially now that I'm absolutely certain this is something I want.

I belong in a high school classroom, teaching English and creative writing. I've always been extremely passionate about reading and writing and felt at home in the classroom.

This Lake Michigan mermaid is ready to leave her comfort zone and learn how to become a great, inspiring and supportive English teacher. Cheers!