Mixed Feelings about The Hunger Games

I just watched The Hunger Games, and I can't seem to decide what I feel and think about it. First of all, I'm glad I watched it without knowing much of the story. It's also really well made and very compelling.

But the premise of the film is that we take advantage of young people for our own benefit and entertainment, and that just does not sit well with me. Targeting the 12-18 age bracket and putting them in harmful and hurtful situations just so people can be entertained is sick--and yet the movie portrays this so well that I enjoyed seeing how the story progressed. I don't recommend it for children or young teens, actually, and I was saddened by several parts of the film.

But I liked Katniss's character so much simply because she showed a depth of character even in the worst situations. She reflected courage, perseverance and values that only grew stronger with every challenge.

So yes--I really do have mixed feelings about the film. I'm glad I watched it and I'm glad I know what it's about, but I don't really want to read the books. The underlying theme of sacrificing for the sake of others' entertainment was just too twisted. I think the highlight for me was watching it with two of my best friends in the world!

Last Day of Classes

I love being a teacher because every semester is different. The students are different, the challenges are new and the tasks are overwhelmingly fun. Today's the last day of classes for this semester and I know I will miss seeing my students three times a week, their expressions when I tell them they have a quiz, and the fun we all have in class.

Here are some of the things I've learned over the last few semesters of teaching:

- Work smart. Don't spend too many hours checking papers or planning the lesson. Do your tasks efficiently and quickly. And don't let the papers pile up! First in, first out policy should apply as much as possible.

- Be on your toes with the students. Bring an extra dose of excitement and energy to class.

- Discern between honesty and "bola" (some students tell the teacher what she wants to hear to get a better grade). 

- Expect the best from them. Challenge them to do better.

- Enjoy each day! 

"They may forget what you said but they will never forget how you made them feel." - Carol Buchner

Communication Skills

Sometimes we think that basic communication skills apply to kids only--listening, speaking, reading and writing. But these basic skills actually become the foundation for life-long learning. Developing in one is connected to developing in the other, and we can't choose one over the other.

I was talking with a friend today and he was asking how he could become a better speaker. Part of my response was to develop the three other communication skills as well, placing special emphasis on listening. A good speaker has to listen to what is being said--and sometimes to what is not being said. In the same way, writing is developed through reading and good writers should be good readers.

Skills are learned, so don't worry if you feel intimidated by the idea of communicating well. Sometimes the only hindrance to this development is ourselves--if you're ready to learn and how much time and effort you're willing to devote to the task. But don't forget--you can improve and you don't need the world's most expensive materials to do so.