Something New; Something Different; Something Memorable
Here is your chance to have a last word to your classmates and to next year's English 12 class. Make this submission your best writing of the year. Use new forms of punctuation, for example, that you have practiced this term such as parentheses. I look forward to hearing from you all.
19 comments:
Something New
New this term was using the film, Wag the Dog. I had used the ACME sheet on propaganda techniques and Affluenza before, but had never dared show such a pointed satire on how easily we are mislead by media. I read recently that persuasion works because it appeals to our self-centered views of ourselves—our big egos feed into the narrative that the advertisers/government provide. The real-life examples provided by Pentagon Blackout and Nayirah’s testimony solidified student understanding of the connection between the techniques and the potential bias or misrepresentation of the facts they see in media. It was gratifying when one of my English 11 students referred to Wag the Dog in his list poem. Although challenging, I feel that the film, along with the other materials, helped students to become more critical.—134 words
Something Different
I notice this every term: the differences among my students. Attitudes vary, attendance, too. Being willing is key. No matter what crazy idea Brad has come up with students choose to say, “OK, I don’t really ‘get’ it, but I’m willing to give it a try.” Being in class helps; doing the homework, even imperfectly, too. The real differences among students come down to one thing: doing the work—some do; some don’t. But without practice, the making of many mistakes, not much can or will be learned. My job as a teacher means that I am entrusted to assure others that some students are better at what they need to do to communicate well in English—that some students are different from the others, and better. It’s a humbling job, believe me! —133 words
Something Memorable
Your creative essays written in class three weeks ago were stunning. I’ve never before had such a rewarding experience reading student essays. (and believe me marking essays isn’t always what I would describe as “fun”!) You were funny and warm, believable and kind. Above all, you were daring, trying something new in your writing. Frankly, I didn’t know what to expect. In the past, my essay prompts have been pretty mundane and the essays written were mostly dull and commonplace. This time the open-ended topics, combined with your new knowledge of the narrative form, made for spectacular stories that, had I the time, I would have gladly published pretty much verbatim in our online student newspaper. Your work has reminded me that, given the chance, many of you can produce excellent and interesting work. Bravo!—135 words
Something New
Going back to school was a tough decision to make, so of course everything was new. For the first time it felt like I was able to be myself and not be afraid to look dumb. If I didn’t understand something I took the initiative to make sure I did, realising that asking questions also helped others. I have never been in an English class that allowed for group work. In doing so there was the opportunity to find out other points of view, and through social interaction, I came to respect my fellow classmates and their courage to face life’s challenges. I was astounded at the differences between us and delighted by our similarities. The blog was also something I had never experienced before. The ability to share my thoughts on a topic and read everyone else’s was mind blowing. 143 - words
Something Memorable
Never again will I be able to watch television the same. The component on the media was intense. One homework assignment required us to watch a program, count the commercials and write down what the sponsors were selling. Tedious! The point was to see how the media affects the way we think and how even news casts may be manipulated by propaganda! The Affluenza component got me to think of how “everything we own owns us” and to be aware of my needs verses my wants; especially when shopping! I was also fascinated by Sir Ted’s lecture on Paradigms of Education. The presentation was beautifully illustrated and clear. No doubt that we need to change the way we educate people. We all learn differently. It certainly gave me something that I will think about for years to come.
140 - words
Something Different
The whole experience was different for me. I was told to take Brad’s class rather than rush through the summer program. Now I understand why. The dynamics of the group work and the challenge to think outside the box were not only meant to help us graduate, but to carry on through life with the new thinking skills acquired. I would like to believe that my grammar and spelling have improved though I am sure that this area will be a life learning process for me. This class was really about learning to think and to use our brains to their fullest capacity. As I enter this - my last blog - there is only one thought : the sun has set, the curtains close…fade to black.
129 - words
-Something new:
Something new, something new, something new. Is there anything new during this term? Ah, yes! I remember it now, I wrote a creative in class writing and Brad liked my writing because Brad never liked my writings. Can you believe it? Brad liked my writing? It's hard to believe. But that was a new for me because originally that creative writing is from my narrative essay, and I wrote it in class. Surprise! Nobody could’ve suspected it. Since I’m an honest person, I’m telling you the truth, so does that mean I’m going to jail? You’ll have to find out if I’m going to a school next year! -100 words.
-Something divergent:
Throughout this term, I learned to laugh at silly stuff, and to cry at trivial stuff. And definitely, I have more than one Facebook friends, and “to- walk-home-with” kind of friend (that means you, Hilary). But most importantly, I learned to relax a little bit, though I took this class more than once. And unbelievably once I got relaxed, the marks I got were higher. So, I definitely learned my lesson, relax if you want to get higher marks! -77 words.
-Something reminiscent:
I’ve never thought about writing about Brad to you, I don’t know why but every time it’s getting harder and harder because I have so much to say to you—future students, hopefully not including me—about Brad and how much fun it is to be taught by Brad. Now, I know Brad can be hard to understand sometimes, but if you get to know Brad, you’ll regret why you didn’t get a chance to meet him sooner. Believe me, if you get a chance to know Brad, then your so called “prejudice” about Brad will be gone (I don’t mean to butter Brad up, I’m just telling you the truth!)! -111 words.
Something New
This English class felt like a whole new learning experience; from blogging, Brad’s wireless keyboard and mouse, videos and film to long group discussions. It showed me how the classroom paradigm has change and will continue too in the future. Writing poetry was never my strong suit - it was challenging creating a 33 line list poem too says the least but when it was completed - I felt proud of this work. I also enjoyed the media unit on “Viewing Media Critically”, sometimes we forget to be conscious of the media and it can consume us. I am still learning this important tool, just recently I made an error with the authenticity of a website and I realize that “critically viewing” cannot be shut off. You must continue to use these tools and apply them to every aspect of your life. Maybe I will leave this class a little less gullible to the media.
-155 Words
Something Different
Brad is a different teacher using the both curriculum and his own passion to teach. I see this through his laughter; ease of reading to the class; to having emotions pop-up from a great poem. He shows interest in his student’s opinions whether they are wrong or right. I enjoyed the reading portion of this class and learned a lot with “close reading with annotations”; this was a different way to better understand what you are reading. I now really enjoy making side notes and critiquing my work and others with annotations. Maybe the most unexpected part of this class was learning about the human brain. I was surprised that this would be included in our English class but it turned out to be all relative to understanding our thinking and how our brains work in relation to learning. Genus!
-140 Words
Something Memorable
The Film Wag the Dog and the Pentagon Blackout Videos will always be a memorable experience because we tend to forget that it has been ten years since “9-11”, and how much that incident impacted us through the media. The film and video’s was a great instrument to illustrate how the media manipulates us in subtle ways - too much greater platforms, like war. I will always remember the worksheet “How to Write with Style” by Kurt Vonnegut. This worksheet had direct influence on my writing ability; now when I write I always keep some of his rules in my mind. I found his guidelines to be helpful, creating a better flow when writing and overtime improving my writing skills. I will always remember this class and all the many amusing discussions and the feeling of belonging.
-137 Words
Something New
New term, new classmates and new teacher made me feel excited at the beginning of this term. Especially posting on the blog as homework every week is totally new to me. At the first time, I read the postings finished by my classmates and I found out that it was hard for me to write it because they had written what I wanted to write—their wonderful postings made me feel shy to post. I made up my mind that I must post it as early as possible and read almost every other postings. Gradually I got used to writing the blogger every week and learn a lot from my teacher and classmates. Nowadays, I really enjoy writing on the blogger to communicate with my teacher and classmates. “Each term is a new journey.” (English12 First Class.doc ©Brad Hyde; 1/25/2011)
--138 words
Something Different
Our blog homework on May 17 was to find a fact about the brain that had been discovered in the past five years. I always suspect the reliability of any information on the internet because it is so easier to post an article on the internet than to publish in a traditional publication. I searched the term “neuroplasticity” at Google News and chose the essay with the reliable links—the only criterion for me—as the sources to support it. Our class on May 30 discussed how to evaluate the quality, accuracy and reliability of the information on the internet. There are several evaluation criteria to let us find the reliable information on the internet. English 12 is such a different course I have ever had, which is so important for my future study and work.
--136 words
Something Memorable
I will never forget the experience to fly with Dear Brad—exhaust to follow—“to roam through foreign landscapes and alien cultures”. I appreciate it very much to be a member of a group of wild gooses (you are the head one) to hover in the sky.
I will never forget to visit the house you set up, where I can find the familiar rooms of “Student Links”, ”Contributors” and “Previous Posts”. I really have had a good time to stay in such a warm, inspiring and growing space.
I will never forget to remember that “Literacy not only enriches inner life, it is essential to economic success of individuals, organizations and nation.” It is printed on the sheet of paper in our first class, which encourage me to complete this memorable journey. Thank you, Dear Brad!
--137 words
Something New
The way we studied English this term was absolutely new to me. I have never seen a teacher who says “No Shakespeare this term!” on the first day of class. Brad said that. It was really interesting to “drop” all the boring books that make me fall asleep on the second page and focus on short articles from a number of up-to-date sources. The advanced way to submit our homework by posting it on the blog is up-to-the-minute experience. The most useful part of the blog is that I am able to see the opinions of other classmates that are helpful in understanding of the topic. These new ideas have made our “journey to the world of English” more entertaining and unforgettable!
–122 words
Something Different
Watching an ironic movie with a hidden political context was different to me. As far as I know, teachers usually try to avoid disputable political discussions. However, “Wag the Dog” let me take a distinct look at the world of media that filled with lies, big money and corrupted politicians. The discussion we had after the movie was touching because of a number of contrasting opinions. It was wholesome to listen to people who have different backgrounds, various attitudes and dissimilar judgements. This movie and the way we discussed it was a practical and stimulating approach to “something different” in the nature of politics.
-101 words
Something Memorable
On the first day of class Brad asked us to take a look at the previous students` comments and write about our expectations for the term. I mentioned Joe’s comment: “On the first day of my class, I imagined that I was in a UN summit because of the different languages I heard.” It is absolutely true; we have a multicultural class with people from all over the world. The opportunity to communicate with all the students during the group assignments was impressive; we always had time to talk about life in our home countries. Even though we studied English this term, I gained plenty of invaluable information about different countries from the “original sources.” It was memorable!
–118 words
Something New
By taking Brad’s English 12 course, I experienced something new here. We talked about the relationship of arts and science, and we watched some videos like Wag the Dog and Affluenza. After analyzing those material, the interesting thing I found was that I learned the similar lesson from different practice: How to utilize technology depends on our social value, so keep critical eyes properly. When the veil was revealed I felt I experienced something exciting and valuable. Compare to other English course, Brad’s class is more like a social class, which refers to social ethic, politics and our responsibilities. -100 words
Something Different
I think I have to face the truth that I have strong weakness on listening and speaking, and I could not escape from Brad’s eyes. When we did some in-class writing after watching videos, I found it was hard for me to hit the point. Brad’s special way exposed my weakness completely! But I have to say it made me more focused on listening in class. It’s a good practice for me though. -80 words
Something Memorable
Something that really sticks out in my mind happened when I experienced the poem unit, especially the presentation I did in front of the class. It was a memorable experience. I was attracted by Brad’s special way on teaching poem, which made me enjoyed the in-class reading, listening and the poem homework. Learning poem by following style without reciting, analyzing and Shakespeare is an unique, fun and helpful challenge for me. -80 words
Something New
I would consider being in this class a new experience for me. It was very helpful to me in terms of writing better. In previous English courses I have taken throughout my five years of high school, this class has differed from them quite a bit. In a good way of course! The reason I say that is because in my previous classes the teachers barely teach. The most they really did was giving the students an essay assignment and expected them to know everything already. However, in Mr. Hyde’s class we are at least given examples and advice on how to write. Being taught this advice will be beneficial for us in the future.
-115 words
Something Different
It was the first time I have ever used a blog to hand in or find an assignment. Using the blog was an interesting experience for me as well. I was able to see what other people thought about certain topics and also learn from it. Personally, I have always loved to read or hear about what other people thought. From what I have seen in this class, some people have posted things on the blog that I have never really stopped to think about. This is what made this class different but also enjoyable.
-95 words
Something Memorable
One of the most memorable things in Mr. Hyde’s class was meeting many new people. Many of us came from different backgrounds which made us a very diverse class. Each and every person had a unique personality and it made working in groups a lot more interesting. Everyone was amiable and was respectful to each other even if one disagreed with somebody else. It was a great experience working and talking to many of them and that is something I will always remember.
-83 words
Something New
Taking English classes is always a new experience for me not just because it helps me to enrich my knowledge but also I am able to improve my English skills. This term, I learned how to be a critical media viewer. After I took the media unit, I am now more focused on what I am watching. I try to look closely at the appearance of the images in order to better understand what television is about and what message it is trying to send. Now I am aware that everything that the media shows us is not always truthful. I need to investigate the source of the news. – 109 Words.
Something Different:
This term posting on the blog was different from my previous class because this time I felt more relaxed, secure and confident at the moment that I have to post my comments. This time I was not thinking what my classmates are going to say about my mistakes. My only purpose was to do my homework on time and correctly; furthermore, I am more cautious in analyzing my sentences structure and punctuation to provide a better work. The experience of working on the blog was not just an excellent way to amend my errors but also I was able to improve my writing skills. – 104 Words.
Something Memorable
I remember the day that I had to stand up in front of my classmates to share the “Possibilities” poem that I wrote. While I was waiting for my turn, I was completely nervous and afraid of thinking that I will be the center of attention. But I made an effort and tried to follow the requirements that Brad told us to get a good mark. At the end I conquered my fears and read my poem with confidence. After I got my mark and feedback from Brad I felt proud of myself because I did a good job. Now I am sure that with dedication and belief in myself I can accomplish many things in my life. – 119 words
Something New
I enjoyed Brad’s English class this term. I have never had any teachers who use blogs for assignments. When Brad assigns an assignment, he asks the students to put a copy of the final draft on the blog. That’s definitely new. Anyone can read the blog; students can look at posts by students on the blog for examples and learn from each other. Brad said, “Some old students from previous classes still read the blog.” Although blogging was new for most of the students, it was a great learning experience.
Words: 90
Something Different
Brad teaches in a unique way. Brad does not only use blogs for assignments (which is different), he does not assign the typical kind of assignments that most teachers assign as well. Assignments can be challenging. Before starting any of his assignments, I have to make sure that I read the assignment question as many times as I need to properly understand what he has assigned. It was tough to make the transition to adapt to his way of teaching. However, Brad was able to teach us a lot this term.
Words: 91
Something Memorable
Something Memorable
Brad is big on having group discussions within a small group of students. He gives us something to discuss about and we discuss on that particular topic (sometimes we get carried away talking about other things). There was always one person in the group who knew a lot the topic given. Also, I have seen that people talk from their experiences. We have some mature students who have held jobs, done other things in life and they have returned back to school. They seem to have a lot of knowledge about things. When people like myself who are just in their early twenties, we discuss very differently than mature students. However, it’s amazing what we get to learn from other people.
Words: 121
Something New
Rather than a language skill study ( that is the original reason why I took this course ), Brad's English 12 course is more like an analytical skill training, no only on the language itself, but also on the cognition. The course contents covered large amount of interesting topics, from media trick analysis ( commercial technique study ) to brain science research; from poem to changing education paradigme. The introducing of multimedia ( internet, movies, etc. ) made the class rich and varied. Brainstorm and group discussion motivated the students for their independent thinking. It is a good experience for me after leaving the high school for a long long time.
-105 words
Something Different
Instead of being taught directly the persuasive skill in the class, students were asked to give feedback on an advertisment, to watch TV programs to observe and analyse the commercials. And then, Brad gave us a handout listing a lot of persuasive techniques that media usually used and let us practice using these techniques as analytical tools to be a critical media viewer. And finally as a conclusion, the movie, Wag the Dog, corresponded with Pentagon Blackout and Congress Testimony of Nayirah showed us in a light-hearded manner "how easily we are mislead by media"(Brad's comment) . This kind of teaching makes things interesting and different.
-106 words
Something Memorable
I wrote my first "long" English narrative essay of about 900 words. Although it may be "naive", I am satisfied with my writing anyway. I would share it with my friends just to flaunt myself. And also, I wrote my first "poem" and read it in the class. For me, a poem means a work of a language master—the man who label himself as a poet is either a genius or a crazy idiot. I am a poet now.
-80 words
Something New
Using modern technology and modern methods (like using full version of a Hollywood movie or some TV documentaries) as teaching and learning material were all exciting and pleasant experiences and something innovative for me. Using the blogger for submitting homework was new for me either. Overall my perception from this class was that the work was focused more on alternative and more modern ways of teaching and practicing English compared to more typically classical ways of teaching. As a student with ESL background I found these methods very helpful and more practical in improving both, academic English, as well as daily used simple English.
107 Words
Something Different
Many practices we have done throughout this term in the class were very unique and different from my previous experiences. I found it very helpful when students were getting actively involved in helping, evaluating, and correcting their fellow students. In many group works student were encouraged in working together and helping each other and benefiting from the knowledge of their fellow classmates. One of the best parts of this type of mutual cooperation was when pairs of student were asked to check essays of each other, correct them, and help out each other how to improve them.
99 Words
Something Memorable
Writing a poem was something unthinkable for me. When I was starting this class I was counting with doing many practices dealing with poems but was not thinking of writing my own poem. Doing that (writing my own poem) was not only an interesting challenge but also something that I could think about for long. The good and interesting part in that is that after I did write my poem, it gave me lots of boost in my self-esteem and self-confidence. I happily realized that I can do things that are otherwise unthinkable for me to achieve. For that, I love my poem, no matter how good or bad I did in it.
114 Words.
Something New
No doubt, in “typical” English 12 class you would expect text books and lots of assignments every day, but in Brad’s class no more text books. In English 12, I got a wonderful chance to learn many new things with new styles. Watching in class movies, working in pairs and groups, and getting opinions from others everything is the part of English 12. What are paradigms? Did you ever hear this word? I understand the meaning of this word by ‘Sir Ken Robinson’ through the TED lecture that the current education system which is divided into two parts: economic and cultural Identity. Thanks Brad for showing us that lecture. In each term, Brad provides new techniques to learn to new things.
---122 words
Something Different
In our free times we love to watch our favourite programs on the TV. We do not want to waste our time by watching advertisements, usually we skip them. One day in our class Brad gave us an assignment that we need to “watch” and paying attention on the advertisements in our favourite show. So I finished my homework, I noticed that sometimes they (media people) repeats the ads more than twice. In my previous classes, I never had this type of assignment. Although I “enjoyed” watching ads in my favourite show, I learnt that how media people convince the audience to buy their products. Really, this was a different experience for me.
---114 words
Something Memorable
I admit that writing and understanding a poem was really hard for me. I learnt technique, how to write a poem. Surprisingly, I wrote a poem “I prefer and Here I Am” in English 12, both turned out very good. Well! I did it; here comes the hard part when I had to present my poem in front of my classmates. Everyone wants to be audience first, but there was a” lucky draw” for everyone to come up in front of the class. I remember that some of my classmates were very confident and relaxed when they were presenting their poems. On the other hand, few students read their poems very fast so they can finish quickly. Overall, our English class was really interesting. All thanks to you Brad, to make this class interesting and enjoyable.
---136 words
Something New.
First day, I was dumbfounded that all students had to write blog comments for English 12. I hate blogs, and I did never share my thoughts and ideas in the Internet. Every time, I have to force myself publish a comment because I almost die of shame that my classmates could notice my foolish grammar and vocabulary mistakes. Also, I faced the new challenge to write a poem. I was glad there were not rhythm and rhyme in it. And counting words, I like it because of my mathematical brain. – 90 words
Something Different.
What is Brand’s purpose? What is a connection between “The Brain and the Future” or Affluenza and English 12? Does Brad try to instill the left social ideas in students’ minds? No answers. I like to talk about propaganda or a bias in the mass media, but it is good for Social Studies not for English. Working in a group, we sometimes could not understand what Brad wanted from us. However, Brad’s teaching style is unpredictable, and it attracts me. – 80 words
Something Memorable.
I still remember when Brad could not keep his emotions reading “Life Lessons from my Uncle Charlie” by George Brook. Before that, I began to write a narrative essay about my friend, but Brook’s story completely changed my mind. I forgot the old essay and started a new one about my grandmother. I got old pictures, came back in my childhood, and realized how important my grandmother was for me. My heart was full warm feelings about her. I really appreciate all the classmates who read my essay because they shared the reminiscence about my grandma. – 96 words
Something new and something different.
I spent a few hours thinking and trying to understand the difference between ‘new’ and ‘different’. And I was unsuccessful. In this class everything was new and, accordingly, different from what I experienced before. I was ready for an ordinary class where we would study English literature and make analysis of read books. However, against all my expectations, I did not get it. Brad’s class seems a laboratory where the teacher trying new methods of teaching on his students. The first novelty and difference from previous classes is posting our homework in the blog. For me, it was the hardest and unpleasant task during this term. Nobody asked me if I had any wishes to shape my thoughts with others. Knowing that each student could read my paragraph kept me out of truth and my real thoughts. I am happy this post is the last. The second innovation and divergence is lack of literature. It was real shock for me. I truly enjoyed “Wag the dog”, but I do not still understand what Brad’s purpose was showing us this movie (I mean literary point of view). Affluenza, “Wag the dog”, and any others material about Media are very interesting and useful, but for Social Studies, for example. And the last, the group works were new and different. I never spent so many times working in the group. It gave me more opportunity to practice in speaking and help me to overcome psychological internal barrier that prevent me from conversations with strangers.
-251 words
Something Memorable.
“Getting Closer”! This short story is something amazing. I was captured by “Getting Closer”. This story is beautiful and bitter reminder that our life is priceless and we should appreciate and value each moment of our life. I reread this story few times and each time I have found something new. It was memorable and unforgettable. And my classmates! Each of them is a revelation. I will always remember our group works, our discussions in which we did not always reach an agreement. It was a significant experience that I will never forget.
-93 words
Something New
Learning English with Brad was an easy thing ever.I did English in Zimbabwe for one full year, but I never enjoyed it as I did with Brad in just six months.Brad’s magic of teaching was something really new. Learning without using text books (special methodology) and the adaptation of new material, such as movies was amazing.“Don’t ever say I can’t before you try”. Myself and most of my classmates, thought that writing a poem and read it in front of people was a miracle. In Brad’s class you get encouraged to write one and recite it to the whole class – a new strategy to encourage writing as well as speaking. Through this method, Brad made me discover that – everyone is a poet in his own way, but unaware. Doing my English 12 with Brad, I have no doubt to be successful in my future endeavors.
-148 Words
Something Different
The freedom of sharing ideas in class was fantastic.I was used to the old system called, in Latin “Magister dixit,”which means “the teacher said.”In English 12, I learnt something different – it is not only the teacher who has a say in class, but everyone through group discussions. I managed to realize my weaknesses, as well as my efforts toward the subject. By sharing ideas in class, we ended up knowing each other very well and it really helped us to respect everyone’s work in all it aspects. After each group discussion, Brad and the rest of the class always received a feedback. For the first time, I saw a teacher (Brad) considering students’ say as his own. This was really different from what have seen before.
-127 Words
Something Memorable
As for me, everything we did remains memorable.The type of class we had is unforgettable. Students from different backgrounds, but we accepted each other and worked as one team. A pundit English teacher with high knowledge in technology introduced almost everyone to the blog. He made us watch TV (the commercials); even those who forgot that TV’s are still in use, we all admitted to be critical media viewers. “Wag the Dog” was my favorite. I now have a love in watching movies and commenting about them. Thank you for everything Brad. Allow me to say, my sincere thanks to everyone who was part of this class, even those who could not finish with us.
-116 Words
Something New
After spending five years with classmates who are the same age as me throughout high school, attending an adult English class was definitely something new for me. I was a little hesitant about the idea at first, but I soon realized that joining Brad’s class may be one of the best decisions I have ever made. Brad’s English class is very diverse because I get to meet people from different cultures who also possess great personalities. Learning English and sharing ideas with the older classmates is a fantastic learning experience. They are very dynamic and they are always willing to share their thoughts and experiences. Under Brad’s instructions, we are able to discuss and explore ideas and thoughts. It is a privilege to be able to interact with my fellow classmates and view the problems that exist in our world critically.
141words.
Something Different
Brad’s teaching plan stands out from all the English teachers who have taught me. Instead of using out dated textbooks and the same monotonous novels teachers distribute to their students every year, Brad introduces a new way of learning; to learn in an integrated way through the use of technology. As a teacher, Brad taught using various forms of technology. As a class, we enjoyed using software such as Microsoft Word and the use of Google Blogger and Youtube. Brad also brings in documentary films and movies. Two particular films, ‘Afflueza’ and ‘Wag the Dog’ gave valuable insight to students on how to view the media and the world critically. The use of technology in Brad’s class is undoubtedly one of the reasons why I enjoy my time at the PALC.
131words.
Something Memorable
Sharing ideas and exchanging opinions through group discussion is highly encouraged in Brad’s class. Instead of lecturing to the students, Brad regularly assigns students into discussion groups. Once in a group setting, students feel more motivated as they start to interact with each other. I enjoy every group participation sessions and I believe it is an excellent approach to enhance one’s learning process. Not only I get to socialize with my classmates, Brad is a quite an entertainer too. Sitting in front of him, I often chuckle at his funny jokes which flourish with wisdom. Succeeding in English 12 will open many new doors for me in the coming years. I will always remember my classmates and the unforgettable moments I have encountered in Brad’s English Class.
124words.
Something New
Being in English 12 class is totally new to me. I thought that writing an essay is a free writing and the only problem I would encounter is the use of articles and prepositions. I never expect that there will be a lot of elements required in writing a narrative essay. For instance, exchange of spoken conversation, the use of senses, parenthesis, and most importantly the word count to name a few. I found it hard but Brad always has a way to make it easier for the students to understand what he expects and by the handouts he has provided the students were guided accordingly. Another new is the blog homework, which took me hours to write something different from the other bloggers. I never thought that I would go this far. The course is not easy but by Brad’s help it made possible for me to stay. - 151 words
Something Different
The lesson about the media unit wakes me up from the long ignorance and lack of concern for truth. Upon seeing “Affluenza”, “Changing Education Paradigm by Sir Ken Robinson” and learning the “Developing A Media Education Language”, I saw how closely the media plays a huge role in our educational, political and economic aspects of our life. These things made me think differently which made me always excited to impart what I have learned to my family. The course is about to finish but learning doesn’t end inside the classroom alone. Brad has taught us enough information that helps me somehow to think critically thus to see more possible answer and lots of ways to interpret questions or images presented in different forms of media. - 130 words
Something Memorable
Group discussion helps me better understand the subject when concrete example was brought out by the other members of the group. Then got chance to know each other which I think is important for Tao Te Ching has said, “Knowing others is a kind of knowledge; knowing yourself is wisdom.” Brad – a computer guy, who smiles all the time made me comfortable in his class (which I was hesitant before). Brad’s comments in my writing are one of a kind; sometimes it made me feel awkward to write again. I will never forget the comments I got in my first unit test, “rambles a bit”, “incompletely quoted here”, “some struggles with the expressions.” I keep on telling myself that I can do it so I never gave up until I got one of these comment, “Wow! Well done!” Brad made me possible to express myself thru writing. Thanks Brad! - 155 words
Something New
There is no doubt that using the blog for homework was completely new for me. Sharing my thoughts this way shocked me at the beginning – I don’t like blogging in the Internet or using social networks – but with the lapse of time I started feeling myself comfortable doing it. The classmates were not the strangers for me anymore and posting in the blog become much easier. It is like sharing your ideas in a group but in written form. Reading others comments helped me to get better picture of my classmates, and I want to say: you guys are cool =) ~100
Something Different
I was surprised how different this English 12 class from most of tedious high-school classes. It reminds me my high-school time, when with some of my classmates we cut boring classes and, thirst for interesting and useful knowledge, came to our school psychologist, who gave us interesting topics for discussions, debates, and criticism. English 12 was the same. Every class Brad came with a new unpredictable activity and assignment (we couldn’t open the beginning of a book and found contents, even more, we didn’t have any book) and brought up it for discussion. Through these activities we not only improved our English, but also (and I think above all) improved our thinking ability. Brad is one of the few teachers whose purpose is to open students’ mind, not only teach the subject. I hope we came up to his expectations – stop being so narrow-minded and start asking ourselves questions. ~150
Something Memorable
Wag The Dog, definitely. I knew before about this entire political circus, but I haven’t seen this wonderful film. Bold, truthful, and full of satire, I enjoyed watching it. It was also a pleasure to see how Wag The Dog and Pentagon Blackout opened people’s eyes to the politics and government and what they have been fed through the media. And there is one more thing I’d like to say: thanks to Brad’s class I discovered Kurt Vonnegut for myself. I’m delighted with him! Thank you, Brad! ~84
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