Today I observed the 'A' block of students. I was pleased with myself because I am starting to recognize kids from week to week, and I am getting better with matching names to faces. The students seem to recognize that I am there to help out, and they seem to feel comfortable asking me questions. In the first class, one of the students was assigned to work with another intern out in the hallway with organizing his locker and binder. Another student quickly raised his hand and asked if he could work with me to do the same thing. He did not seem to be simply after getting out of English class, but rather he seemed to have a genuine interest in getting himself organized.

We worked together going through stray papers and making sure everything was in its proper place, and I felt like I made an impact on his thinking at least. I tried to explain to him the importance of using his planner, as well as how it is necessary to put things directly into the binder where they belong instead of just shoving them in a book or backpack. While he was sorting through things he found a few assignments that he had not turned in because he thought they were lost, and he was able to turn them in immediately.

The second class made me feel very good about observing in the classroom. Because the students had some independent work time, I was able to go around and help out with various tasks, check off papers and write things on the board. While these tasks seem menial, I am very happy that I get to be involved with my observation, rather than just a passive viewer. Ms. H and I decided on who would be my focal student today, and once I receive more of her schedule information I will be shadowing her in other classes. I'm looking forward to getting to know my student because Ms. H chose her because she's quiet in class, but a good student who has good attendance.

In response to yesterday's class discussion, I feel that as future educators it is important that we discuss the issues that are pressing in today's society. The Sleeter/Grant text was an excellent conversation starter, and raised many profound questions. However, many of these questions can not be answered. Sometimes I look to the future and grow concerned about how I will be able to make a change in the way society views the public school system and its participants. I hope that by addressing these questions and issues during my education, I will be able to approach these future situations knowledgeably and practically, so that I really do have an impact on the current structure of schools, and society at large.