Sarah Mae Week One

Week One Assignments

Introductions

I usually write for my classes, although as a result of this particular class I am flexing my rhetorical muscles more freely - which feels good.

I like to write at home although I do find the library a good space as well when I sit on the first floor near the windows looking out to the water.

I don't currently have a particular project as my education classes are all project based, so - my "problematic" is probably just keeping it all flowing.

Write!

Part One

I interviewed my husband. He is a High School English teacher in Pinellas County. He is currently teaching American Literature and remedial reading.

There were two interesting highlights during my interview but I am choosing to share the one that is related to education as I felt it was the more profound of the two.

Q: Do you feel that everyone has their own individual rhythm when they’re writing?

A: I teach high school juniors ... I’ve got the underachiever class...so right now I have to say nooooo. (voice dropping deeply.)

Q: That’s a challenging process I’m thinking...?

A: Yeah, it is – it takes training – you’ve gotta have training to form a style and my kids are untrained, uninterested and unmotivated – there’s your rule of three again

Q: Do you feel that it’s your responsibility to impart a rhythm to them?

A: If I could – but they’ve got 11 years of not reading – 11 years of not writing – after talking to them I found out that last year in their English class they barely wrote their name on the top of a multiple choice test. So – how am I supposed to teach them to have a style or rhythm when first I have to teach them that “cause” is not “cuz” and “cuz” is not “because?”

As a preservice educator speaking this part of the discussion with my husband about his experiences with his students reminds me that it is vital to meet them "where they are." For instance, in this example, you can see that trying to instruct students about advanced writing skills wouldn't be appropriate until after they get their general skills under control. For me, it underscores the importance of remembering that although I want to change the world as an educator it will happen one small step at a time.

Part 2:

I found it challenging to listen and then write the words in an exacting manner. I also noticed that as I converted the interview from sound to text it became very formalized, our inflections seemingly disappeared and a very casual conversation took on a whole new feeling.

Part 3:

Check out Kristopher's blog:

http://idh4000rhetoricsofrhythm.pbwiki.com/Kaufmann%27s-Hangout

I find his views about licensing really interesting. As an artist, although I understand what he's saying about corporate greed, I think it is important to have some control over my creative endeavors.

And then of course - check out Stephen's blog:

http://idh4000rhetoricsofrhythm.pbwiki.com/cacophony69

It is a fascinating display of language and a stream of consciousness. :)

Part 4:

Creative Commons License

Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is

licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License

I chose this license because it seemed broad enough so I could share my work but limited enough so that I could have some level of control over how.

Week One Blogs

Blog 1: 1-10-07 Not unlike life itself all writing has an underlying rhythm. The cadence of life is influenced by our life experiences, gender and ethnicity. As a result, our writing reflects our individual rhythms. It will be interesting to share those beats as we interact and get "in tune" with each other.

Blog 2: 1-11-07 So, with all the "beats" we took in during the seminar yesterday, it's going to be an interesting journey. With that in mind, I can only hope to contribute to the sounds this group will make. So many interesting, bright minds all in one place - what a great opportunity to grow, as a person and a future educator. I am looking forward to adding what I can as a student and taking away a myriad of insights as a teacher. Guess that's all for now. Have a peaceful day.

Blog 3: 1-15-07 So, I am reading and now I am writing but it all seems a bit surreal and overwhelming. I am experiencing a blog block and have no idea what to share. This project is, however, proving to be an interesting fusion of the segments of my life. My former husband (of 21 years)is a musician and my current husband (of the last 3+ years) is a High School english teacher . I find it continually fascinating how experiences in life come together like headwaters flowing into a stream. Always moving...deepening....changing over time...some things settling out and others being carried downstream....but always moving...moving...moving....

Blog 4a: 1-17-07 Well, I managed to complete the interview assignment. I am relieved but still wondering a bit about where it will all lead us. I am looking forward to the seminar today - it is going to be an interesting journey.

Blog 4b: 1-17-07 Post-seminar in the computer lab - it's unnerving to overhear others in the class who are disengaged throw insults at those who are implicating that participation is politically correct and insincere. I probably won't contribute as freely as a result. The environment has been rendered unsafe for me.

I've got to assume you are referring to me. And, if I'm correct, let me ease your mind a bit - I was not referring to you. Also, I think you misunderstood my gripe. I've clarified my contention here. In any event, who cares what I think. - Cory

- Hey Sarah, its Kristopher here...sat two seats to the left of you today. Some anonymous individuals have mentioned to me today that I said the unnerving comments toward you. From what I can recollect I didn't say anything of the like to you, nor did I hear of such things until I left the class 15 minutes after everyone else. I'm sorry that others have said unnerving comments to you, but that in no way should affect how you feel in a classroom environment. In my opinion, just like it is expressed freely in class, you should confront the individuals who upset you and make it a point that it will not be tolerated.

Sincerely,

Kristopher