Differences in Abilities

In my elementary observations I have noticed several challenges that as a teacher that I will ultimately face. The challenge that I believe seems to be the most difficult from observing is that of the differing learning levels of the students. I do know that obviously not all students will be on the same learning level, however in the elementary age group I have noticed the largest gaps of all. In this age group, children (especially in literacy) can be on three different levels of reading and writing. I have watched my lead teachers in my observations and they work around this challenge with great ease. As a new teacher, I am so fearful that this is not something that I will be able to do so beautifully. I am thinking that this is a true skill that comes with time because as I am thinking about it I realize what a challenge it can truly be to diagnose each level that the children are on, teach a group lesson, but also keep the lesson to each individual child's ability. 

Case 25 Question 2

Number two poses the question as to whether Aiyanna should worry about Luke's apparent delay in learning to read as soon as some of the children. In the grand scheme of the situation, my answer is no. I do not think that Anyianna should be concerned about Luke's learning delay in reading because of his situation and because of the fact that he is in the first grade. There are several factors that she could and should take into consideration such as his abilities and if they are improving, and whether her reading lessons are at the right level for Lukes abilities. As a teacher, one of the most difficult parts of teaching is teaching to the abilities of the students in the class, which in first grade this can be extremely difficult as you are going to have learners on all different kinds of levels of reading at this point, and that is very normal and typical for the first grade. So, because of the large gap in literacy abilities for the first grade, I think that Luke's delays in literacy are developmental in nature and will eventually be overcome and therefore are not a concern to the teacher or the parents at this point in Luke's education. 

Case Study 25, Question 3

Question number 3 in case 25 is in regards to Luke and his "mental health" break from school and the advantages and disadvantages that this situation poses. I belive that there are several advantages and disadvantages to having Luke take this mental health time. It sounds like Luke is having a difficult time adjusting to school, so if just once, I think that his mental health day could give him time to think, re-group, and not think about school. Much like adults, even children need a small break from the day-to-day routine that school provides especially if it is not a routine that you enjoy as Luke has expressed his dislike for school to his mother. By taking a "mental health day" Luke can take a day away from this school routine and take a break from school all together. The break may even allow for him to appreciate school more when he goes back.

Although a mental health day can be beneficial and helpful Luke, there are also negative side effects that can come from this time off. First, Luke will be missing out on the academic benefits of school. It sounds like Luke is already struggling with some aspects of academics and missing out on class time can only hinder this even more as he will be getting behind in school which will only hold him back even further and may even increase his dislike for school. Second, Luke is missing out on the social aspect of school which is also a large part of learning and development. It sounds like his physical development is advanced for his age, but given the situation, I bet his social skills are lacking. Missing out on this social time with his peers is also setting him behind the others.

Overall, I think that if only once or twice, mental health days are acceptable and can be beneficial for Luke in his academics. However, more than just a few mental health days can only set Luke further behind academically, emotionally, and socially.