RooneyReadingResponse3

Mind at work: I chose to read chapter 4 of Mind at Work. This chapter was based upon Mr. G and his students that learn the basics of pluming with him. I found the chapter very interesting because it discusses where these boys originally came from and why they are currently in this position. I think that the role of Mr. G is a positive influence to most teachers. He seems to be caring and understanding of everything. He finds nothing but positives in the men he teaches even though some of them came from not so great backgrounds. He lets them put their input into the situation instead of just telling them what to do. This makes them feel as though they actually accomplished something and is a boost for their self- esteems. No matter what path that these gentlemen choose, it is important that they always feel important and useful. This is something that Mr. G touches upon and something that I feel every teacher should use. Some of my least favorite classes are the ones where you just listen to a lecture everyday and your test grade means everything. Accommodations should be made for every student and learning ability.

My Freshman Year: WHen reading this portion of My Freshman Year, I understood the beginning and where she was coming from when talking about outsiders. As a teenager currently in college I see the students that are the outsiders in specific situations. I think that it's sad how this happens so often, but that it is our natural society. I agree with her when she says that there are those who always seem to be the outsider, but sometimes there are those who are only on occasion. Personally, I have a class where I am the only freshman and often feel like the outsider. THe class also is a general education course and has nothing to do with my major. Therefore, I really don't know anybody and feel left out frequently. Towards the end of this chapter she talks about different cultures and how they act compared to here in America. This really made me think of how fortunate we are here in America in some situations, but also makes me want to travel and experience some of these opposite backgrounds. This also reminded me a lot of my Pre- interpreting class. In this class we discuss deaf American culture compared to hearing American culture. You would be surprised how different they act in certain situations. One simple saying that can be rude to any human here in America can be considered normal in the deaf community.