I feel confident about this big, new word. To me, it feels like some sort of game. I feel like I get to try different patterns to make concepts fit together. One of the most confusing parts of it all was just making a logical sentence. With the knowledge that there is a qualifier, it helps make even the narrowest of statements true. Also, I find it fun to put weird concepts together and make them work. You can put almost any 2 concepts together and form a generalization, if one can simply find the dynamic that makes them fit together.
Our class completed an activity where we had to work together to find implicit and explicit concepts within a given standard. Then we were instructed to form a generalization that fits with the mixed and matched concepts. This activity was right down my alley, It helped me think and put my thoughts down on Google Docs page. Not only was I taking a risk in putting my ideas and thoughts out there for the class to see, but I was able to gain feedback from my fellow students and my professor on my direction.
An article titled "The Importance of Generalizations in Social Studies" made this statement:
"...generalizations are a logical step in teaching kids to think critically about what they know and transferring that knowledge to a variety of topics within the social studies."
This is an intriguing statement that inspires me to try and relate this topic to a diverse group of learners. This means, do not assume that every child has experienced the same things, because they may or may not ave been privileged enough to do what you have thought.The same article made another statement that I absolutely adored:
"Not only does a focus on generalizations have the promise to enhance vibrancy of classes and student interest, but it also has the potential to raise test scores through enhanced understandings of the content and improve the development of citizenship skills and dispositions."
Teachers, administrators, and parents are all so worried about test scores, they are unable to see what can actually be helpful. The teaching of these generalizations develop citizenship skills and dispositions that they may have for the rest of their life.
And it all starts with you and me.
Much love,
Brittany Kertesz
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ReplyDeleteBrittany,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed figuring out how to put seemingly mix-matched concepts together and find that relationship and connector-piece; it is like putting together a puzzle! The article you found was great. The first statement you pointed out emphasizes that the generalizations formed should be related to the students in some way, and almost prompts a challenge for us as future teachers to try to relate to a diverse group of students. Love the second statement you pointed out to, as it shows that CBI truly promotes test scores and life skills that the school systems are so concerned with in the first place.
Great post!
Brittany,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you defined and explained what generalizations are. The resource you found was really great! Thanks for sharing it with the class! I love that you pointed out that generalizations should be formed with the students in mind. When planning a unit it is crucial for us as the teacher to think of each student and their specific needs. At the end of the day our classroom needs to be student centered. I also loved that you pointed out that test scores can be raised by enhanced understanding. Great post!
Britt,
ReplyDeleteYou mentioned going out on a limb and putting your thoughts out there for the class to see on the shared google doc, and I just wanted to say how impressed with your initiative I was. You exemplified true teacher like qualities by facilitating the discussion. We found the same article, so obviously, I like it and all it has to say! What a great quote you pulled.
Brittany,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great quote! Generalizations can add vibrancy to instruction in many ways. Pushing student to constantly think to higher terms can allow them to truly grasp the instruction. In future posts, I want you to really focus on connecting your blogs to your future classroom. What are the class conversations doing to help you to be better prepared as a teacher? What other steps can you take outside of class to improve your understanding? What about connections to standards?