S Willocks

Yes! I commented recently that writing conferences are easily the single most valuable tool for instruction, feedback, reflection. I wish it were easier to do more often. In the past, when students learned the value, they would make appointments before and after school so they could have more time.

I shared this with a couple of my students who recently read Parable. They both acted a little surprised. I don't think they genuinely realized the contextual significance of the book as they made their selection.

My high school students just selected from 451, Handmaid, BNW, and Parable. We will have some cross text talks that should be interesting.

Over the last month, my classes have been reading independently from a short list of dystopian novels while continuing with other course work. Last week, a student said that every book on the list was on the table of banned books in the local bookstore. I just asked if they knew why. They did.

Feels all too real. I encouraged my admin to start it, too. They are upper high school, mostly 17. Some are reading Atwood and others are reading Huxley.

I really enjoy Shafak but haven't read that title, so now on my list.

I'm reading it now--with some of my students.

The cheapest? I'm running with bourbon and a beer by the name of Dirty Bastard.

Speaking sits in the standards, so I've tried many strategies. I give credit for notes taken during discussion & attempt to have some chats with only four or five students. I don't care much how often a student speaks & try to acknowledge growth in what is a risk-taking activity for quiet students.

How you ride the last 20 minutes when you've been in the car four hours...

...when a student shares a book made them sob and then sigh and finish with, "I miss that book." Book Love ❤️

A few more than typical.

Hi! I'm in the US (Georgia), but spent five years in Kuwait (so know Bahrain pretty well), and also taught in Guatemala, Syria, South Korea, and Libya. English teacher, too. Happy to meet you.

The platform of previous had me mostly following and commenting. Maybe it's time to show a bit of 30 years in education. #Edusky

...better than the rue in a shoe.

What a beauty.

Today I ran my first marathon. I was in Savannah, Ga, and the people were great! Way beyond the volunteers, the community was supportive and encouraging all along the way.

Let's see how content grows under the blue, blue sky.