Perceptions

I've been doing research for my big unit in 3rd quarter.  It's a big huge identity unit and it culminates in a "Statement".  Students need to make a statement about their life - where they stand in relationship to the world, their communities, and their peers and families. 

I've been thinking about having them take one of the free Meyers-Briggs like quizzes out there.  Every single one I took had me as an INFJ - the most rare personality types (explains why I feel like a fish out of water most of the time).  Yeah, I read the descriptions and they sound spot on - as spot on as any kind if alphabet soup diagnostic test can be, I guess.  Just to make sure it wasn't some kind of "any horoscope fits anybody" kind of thing, I read some of the others - definitely not me.  So, it might be interesting for the kids. 

I just see our worldviews becoming so black and white - you are either this or you are that (insert whatever this or that you want).  In the name of tolerance, there is less tolerance than ever.  A huge chunk of my kids are reading To Kill a Mockingbird which describes such a spectrum of diverse family situations, personal oddities, and economic conditions which is eye-opening for my students.  I'd like to introduce them to some subtlety, so room for tolerance of different manners and habits. 

Even our school situation promotes an either-or kind of feeling.  There are two English teachers per grade level, basically two math teachers for each math subject, per each level of ʻolelo Hawaii, etc.  You either have me, or you have the other teacher.  We're very different in our approaches - I think my son is very happy he has the other teacher and not me, not just because I am mom, but because he thinks my work is too hard.  On the other hand, one of my students said to me, "We're SO happy we have you - even if you ask the juniors - they say, 'Mrs De is the 'mom' one." 

I would have taken it as a compliment if she hadn't added, "Yeah, you understand a holiday weekend is for families - the other teacher gave homework."  I cleared my throat and pointed to the homework board which clearly says, "Read chapters 4-12 by Tuesday."  Sigh.  Just when you want to get all puffed up. 

Waiting for Allie to lamb.  Last night when I went out with the flashlight, I saw her looking anxiously at her belly.  I thought we were on for a late night show, but no lambs appeared.  I told her in no uncertain terms that she was to have "No more than two lambs, young lady."  She's awfully portly - I really hope it isn't triplets.  They're hard to manage and such a worry even though she was a great mama the first time around.  I'll keep you posted.