The Truth About Middle School Students

Abstract: This chapter discusses moving beyond only knowing students in an academic light, and instead recognizing the tasks they accomplish in their daily lives. While it is certainly valuable to understand the academic interests of our students, this information means little without understanding what this student has achieved at home. Wormeli makes an excellent point by beginning the chapter with a list of the enormous tasks his students have achieved. While it is easy to get swept away in the negative connotations associated with middle school students, we can not forget that these are occasional circumstances, and that not all students will exhibit these negative behaviors. By ignoring these generalizations and valuing our students as individuals, we will show our students that they matter more than statistics, and we believe in their abilities to grow and succeed.

Synthesis: I would really love to post blank sheets throughout the classroom for students to write thoughts and reactions upon. I want students to recognize that their thoughts are valuable, and that there are always appropriate situations where they may voice these opinions and words of wisdom. In addition to this, I would like to find a way to share the successes of my students while in class. Whether this is an academic, athletic or personal success, I believe that these should be celebrated. However, in order to do this, it will be necessary to verify with students that they are comfortable with having such things shared with the class. If not, I would like to encourage students to note important events in writing journals or with me personally.