Teaching in the Twenty-First Century

Time.

We all need more. I know this. I am no more overwhelmed than every other teacher out there. We all have papers to grade, lessons to plan, meetings to attend, and many other things which require our precious time. It has been a whole month since I posted on this blog. Not because I don’t want to. Not because I don’t have something to say (like that could ever happen!). But, because I just don’t seem to have any available time this year. Taking on two new classes and keeping all my other commitments has proven more than I bargained for in the long run.

So, how about a real post?

Back to time. What about our students? Do they have enough time? Are the given enough time to complete their work? Do they have enough time to comprehend their learning? Do they have time to be themselves?

As a new AP teacher, I worry about time, like I haven’t really considered before. Because the AP exam will cover any aspects from US history, it is my duty to present the kids with the entire scope of this history BEFORE the exam. Um, last time I checked, that’s at least 600+ years of history. Since day one of the class, I have told my students the scope and the need to get through the material by the exam date. They have been less than impressed with the amount of work they must complete in order to meet the exam date.

But, as I plug through the material, I am worrying about the time it is taking and the time I am not taking on some aspects of their learning. Since it is an AP course, my expectations are high and will remain high. I don’t dummy down what I do, but I do offer SUPPORT & SCAFFOLDS for those who need them–which often means they (the student) must work harder. Some are resistant to this, but in the long run, they realize the need to do so. However, I still worry that our fast pace is outpacing some great thinking and learning. My kiddos are just starting to make connections when we must race on to the next area or unit.

The need to cover the material will not go away. I don’t expect it to go away. I know most of my students need more support and scaffolding than normal in an AP course, because of their ELL backgrounds (most, not all). I am one who doesn’t believe in the cream of the crop AP courses. In fact, I think MOST students should have to meet such high standards, but I don’t think in today’s society I don’t think we will ever get to that point, without some radical thought changes. I guess, in the end, I am just concerned I may not be doing justice to my students by rushing through the material at lightning speed.