this same student with the opinion about the onions noticed something else i hadn't:
the phrase "three days later."
louis sachar uses it a twice in the span of as many pages, he pointed out--once, after sam's unfortunate demise and ("three days later") the sheriff is shot, and the second time after stanley unwittingly gets mr. sir in trouble with the warden--("three days later") after having gotten no water from mr. sir, he finally fills stanley's canteen, but not before acting like he poisoned it.
we discussed the biblical implications of the phrase, and the transformative implications in each example. (i.e. ms. barlow's change of character, the change in the relationship between mr. sir and stanley, and the resurrection story in the bible.) it was another in a long list of treasure moments i've shared with this student.
it's so inspiring to teach students that are excited about the possibilities in writing and literature--the students that can and will reflect upon the information they're producing and/or receiving. they make this job so rewarding...
i'm so thankful that i get to interact, influence, and (hopefully) enlighten the future of this country every day, AND get paid for it!
it's awesome!
1 comment:
Mr. C, you must be the most enthusiastic, inspiring writing teacher I've ever known! I always hear about the latest book or article you're reading, and your ravings about the great stories kids write for your class. They must learn so much about content and voice from the way you exude love of literature!
I really hope you get chosen to go on that New York City trip--I can't imagine anyone that would get more out of it!!
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