Chapter 10

I really enjoyed the whole premise and set up of this chapter. I love the way the author introduced his ideas by giving direct examples from the classroom. The foundation for the ideas in the chapter was based on the teacher brining in individuals to talk about their careers. This is an awesome way to get kids engaged in class and give them a goal. I would love to try to do more of this in my classroom. I would like to bring in guest speakers to make the material we are studying more relevant for my kids.
To some extent I agree with the idea of a "flat world," but I still think that is debatable. Yes, technology makes information more accessible for people, but all people do not have access to technology. While this could be the case, I think there are still many people lacking in the area of technology because of resources and accessibility.
I liked the eight roles and skills that the chapter focused on, but this also seems somewhat overwhelming to thoroughly teach all of these to all kids. I think some will be more talented in specific areas than in others.
I thought the end of the chapter was very challenging with the examples of technology being integrated into the classroom. This is an area I am lacking in and would like to grow in. During the times I did use technology this year my kids were totally engaged. I would like to do more of this.

Adolescent Literacy

I really agreed with this opening chapter. I think that some teachers and administrators are so caught up with standardized tests that they forget the real needs of the kids. That is so sad that a class was set up strictly based on the needs of the standardized tests. Students need to know they have value and worth as individuals, and their basic needs need to be met and addressed. Also, teachers need to find students areas of interest, and then they need to engage them with their interests like with the example of Collin. His teacher just assumed he could not be successful and did not take the time to get to know him. His teacher did not take the time to learn what would help Collin succeed as an individual. I had a student like that this year, and I finally found out that he loved to write song lyrics. I let him write away because he came alive with this and engaged with the materials.
Also, I agree with and had never critically thought about that literacy changes with time. What is valued as literacy changes with our culture and world, so the education system does need to change with this. I agree that school needs to be a place where students are challenged in their thinking and find their own voice.
I agree with bridging the gaps in more than just achievement, but how are we going to do that? How are we as educators going to influence those changes? This chapter really made me think.