The first chapter of our reading insinuates our brains are trained to follow a map and to not venture further than what we are trained to do. But we should be creative and exercise thoughts outside of the box. I realized several years ago that I struggled with this because I tend to feel “safe” following a format or a course of action. At the same time I wanted to incorporate non-traditional teaching techniques in my class to engage students. So, I stepped a bit outside the box and started using my curriculum as a foundation and I incorporated technology, videos, digital and physical games during my teaching time. Students seemed more engaged during class, parents commented on how their children enjoyed learning, and test scores went up. I really enjoy when students say, “We didn’t do a _____ lesson today,” and then I review what we learned and then they respond with “Oh, I guess we did.” This response is all because it wasn’t a traditional lesson.
In the second chapter the overall theme is that the world is full of possibilities, so be positive and move forward. In order for this to happen we need to forget about the social rules in life and go beyond the borders. Relax, enjoy yourself and the true colors will become evident and you will be able to discover more and make more of your life. It you feel like you have to accomplish something and you’re stressed about it then your success will not soar to its potential. The analogy of the glass being half full or half empty is a good example of possibilities in chapter 2. In all circumstances there is something positive so instead of being so quick to be negative take a moment and travel the positive outcome. I stand by this in my own life if someone complains to me about something I turn it around and state the positive.
Chapter 3 hits the nail on the head with comparing students one to another with grades. I loved the example of giving an “A” at the beginning of class with the condition that students had to write a letter as to why they would receive an “A”. What an inventive way to have students really look deep within and reflect on themselves. As a result they may change for the positive and become more confident. I am one of four children and I put major pressure on myself when it came to grades. My older sister always got straight A’s and that was my goal but there were a few subjects it didn’t matter how hard I tried I couldn’t pull off an A. My parents always encouraged me to do my best and that was an A in their book. I am thankful for that because I never felt like a failure as long as I tried my hardest. This was my parent’s way of giving me an A.
