Chapter 1: Stoking the Fires Within

Abstract

According to this chapter, the education professions appears to have somewhat of a stink attached to it. Negative bumper stickers and posters don't exactly help out with that misconception. Wormelli is saying that as teachers, our job is to change the way society views our profession by going beyond just the basics. We have to take a good look at ourselves and our teaching philosophies and determine what needs to change. Finally, this chapter makes a good point about good listening. Good listening can lead to good communication, which is very important when working with adolescents and even coworkers.

Reflection

I think the point made about attitude was a very important one. How we act in the classroom will certainly affect how our students learn. I really liked the story about the adventure trips teacher because it showed that tomorrow really is a whole new day. Things might go wrong but that is no reason to give up. It is important to start everyday with a positive attitude or else you will just wind up in a vicious cycle of always being discouraged. When I am a teacher, I plan on going with the flow and always staying positive. If students can tell that we are stressed out and unmotivated, they will be less likely to learn from us.