End of Semester Blues

As a student I always struggled at the end of the Spring semester. I don't know why. Maybe it was the changing of the weather, or the anticipation of Summer break, or the fact that the Christmas break isn't long enough to recharge the batteries. Whatever the reason, my worked sucked in the Spring.

I teach writing classes, and I primarily teach from class discussions of homework readings. I don't do many notes. If I run out of things to say and the students contribute nothing, class usually ends early.

My teaching at the end of the Spring semester is much like my work as a student was at the end of the Spring semester. It sucks. I have a tough time getting motivated to prepare for class, and it often shows. At least I think it shows, which brings me to my question: do the students realize this? I can't remember ever noticing this about my teachers when I was a student. Or do they even care?

I taught briefly in a high school a couple of years ago. I had one overpopulated class of bad kids. I didn't know what to do and they intimidated the hell out of me. But I thought I did a good job of faking it. I had a coteacher, who was also new, and who was struggling just like me.

Then one day I collected their writing journals, which I made them write in for five minutes every class. This kid who always gave me problems and never seemed to pay attention wrote this kernel of truth:

"I think we need new English teachers because they is scared of us."

From the mouths of babes...

I don't think I give my current college students enough credit. I just think they don't care. That to me is just as scary as a teacher who slacks off.