Introduction to Writing a Formal Response to Literature

There is nothing more exciting than when you see a student think deeply, question ideas, share a new thought, or explore character’s actions/ decisions or a quote  or a purpose the author had when writing a novel and then connect the information to learner’s own story in life. Helping students reach their full potential, and beyond, in a setting that is safe, exciting, creative and funny is what teaching is all about to me. The climate has  to be one that is free from bullying, pressure, and negative interactions and, instead,  is one that students can’t wait to get to as they know the time in that class will be rewarding, creative, stimulating, and allow them to be who they really are and share what they want to share. There is nothing more exciting, as a teacher, then when that light bulb illuminates and a student feels confident to share and take an idea, quote, author’s purpose or decision from a book and see how it can affect real life or when a learner sees their full potential, in the written word they create.
We can make literature, come alive in a really fun, fast-paced active discussion filled atmosphere.

My background professionally is having taught third grade, fifth grade, and Sixth grade language arts for 33 years with a background in psychology, elementary education, school administration and an extensive background in overnight camping.My favorite teaching topics include writing poetry, creative  and nonfiction writing, and reading/sharing outstanding literature with discussions that bring critical thinking skills and life lessons to the students. I am excited to bring this teaching to an environment that is bully free with motivated students in a small group setting.I always look forward to reading my students work as I see such brilliance in people of this age.

I can be found in the upstate NY, most often being out on the lake in my  boat from  spring to fall (I love being on water!), playing guitar and singing, collecting Pez, reading , cooking and baking, volunteering in the community as often as I can to make things better for others, and spending lots of time with Derby, the wonder dog, my amazingly bright and talented  rescue dog who undoubtably will make visits into the virtual classroom. I also enjoy bike riding, yoga,  and meditation. Most importantly, I place great emphasis on finding ways, small  and big ways, that will allow my students and myself to make our mark in this world and make it a better place for others. The small ways  are most often the best ways and I believe students are brilliant people who can absolutely change the world.