I have two little brothers who are in grade school and one is going through something called "Core Math." Core math is "The Standards for Mathematical Practice describe varieties of expertise that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students. These practices rest on important “processes and proficiencies” with longstanding importance in mathematics education." For short, it is math students should know before each grade. It is not to different from the math we learn everyday except, it's longer and a more frustrating math problem and a new way of solving it. Some examples are in this link - "Can you solve these common core math problems?" My brother struggles bad with common core math but he is super smart and is actually really good at math. Many parents feel there is no reason common core math should exist. Parents were taught very differently then their child or children are being taught. I think a major issue parents are having is if their child comes home and needs help, parents will not know how to help them because they have learned math differently. Is there an easier way for kids to learn math besides common core math? Do parents need to go back to elementary school and learn math all over again just so they can help their kids? Please, anyone share their opinion if they have ever had to deal with common core math.
Summary:
On November 28th 2016 at 9:52am, a man named Abdul Razak Ali Artan drove his car and struck pedestrians near Watts Hall. Seconds later, he got out of his car and started stabbing people with a knife. Eleven people were injured and the school went on lock down. The attacker was taken down by a cop who says "he clearly wasn't stopping!" My Reaction: It is such an unfortunate event that took place. Not only were people hit by a car, but were also stabbed. They must have been so scared and shocked to see such a horrific action take place right where so many college students attend and live. My heart goes out to those who have been part of this harsh act. It is so awful to think you can not walk out of your house or down the street with out some conscience in the back of you mind making you worried about what could happen to you in that short amount of time. Everyone please be safe and be careful and know your surroundings. *Here is an article on what happened at Ohio State University* When sitting in class and the teacher asks a question but doesn't get a response, I often wonder why students do not answer. Is it because you do not know the answer? Is it because you are shy? Is it a fear?
I am curious as to why students will sit in a classroom knowing the answer but not speak. When I was younger, I always had a fear that I would be made fun of for saying the wrong answer. As I continue to get older, I have realized that answering a question is not as hard as some people make it out to be. Being in college, I have this expectation that everybody is different than when they were in high school. (that is a false accusation) Some people I know go through each chapter in their educational life and not give a single answer aloud. Other's I know have been outspoken and blurt every answer they know. When I started college, I told myself I was going to participate more often, I was going to get involved. I think I have mostly accomplished what I set out to do (so far!) I wonder If the reason people do not talk or participate in class is because of something that happened in their past. For me, middle school was not fun. Any mistake you may have made could be an on going topic for quite a while. Maybe students "sike" themselves out before they talk in front of people. I want to let people who are like this know, it's ok! Considering the year 2016 is coming to an end, I thought I would write a blog post about how this year has been for me....
In the beginning of the year, I was a few months into my senior year of high-school. I never would have thought this year would go by so quickly. (even though everyone tells me "time flies.") On May 5th, also known as Cinco De Mayo, I turned 18. Soon after my 18th birthday, I had my senior prom. It was so much fun and those memories from that night will stick with me for the rest of my life. By the snap of my thumb, we were rehearsing for Graduation. Those were the last days I would be standing in the auditorium with the my graduating classmates of 2016. Graduation was a whirlwind of emotions. I went from happy to sad, overwhelmed to excited. Graduation day was June 15th, 2016 and it was the most emotional roller coaster I have ever been on! We were officially high school graduates. Over the summer we enjoyed our break from school and at the end of August 2016 I started my first semester of College. This semester has been an overwhelming experience but my professors and fellow classmates really make my college experience enjoyable. College is such a different experience from high-school. More advantages, more help when needed and you get treated like an adult who makes their own decisions. Other than having to pay a lot for college, it is a really great experience and I thoroughly enjoy it. In November 2016, we had our Presidential Election with Hillary Clinton against Donald Trump. With the scores pretty close, Donald Trump won the Election and even with all the protesting going on, I hope he does a great job and makes this country proud. When I am at my job, I enjoy my working environment. Nice people, barely any drama and there's a sense of calmness.For some people, they hate their working environment. Mean co-workers, strict bosses, and many absurd policies. For me personally, I do not have a strict boss and I do not have any absurd policies such as consequences for being late or not being allowed to request days off. I am very grateful for my job and I see so many people who hate their jobs,but have to deal with them because they either have a household they care for or they are financially struggling. Some people I know are in a working environment where gender plays a huge role in respect and pay raise. I do not agree with unequal pay because of gender, which is a huge political topic that's spreading. In a work place, I find it calming to have music playing and color throughout the building. Dull is boring and exhausting but if you have color throughout the building maybe it could brighten up employee's moods. In a good working environment, everyone is respected, there is no petty drama and employee's do their best to do their job and do it right.
It's the most wonderful time of the year. December Is, by far, my most favorite month. It is time I get to spend with my family, listen to Christmas music and see all the gorgeous lights:) Not to mention, we get to watch Christmas movies and not have to have an excuse as to why we are watching them. Recently, I bought all the classic Christmas movies such as, "It's a Wonderful Life," "Santa Claus is coming to town" "Rudolph the Red Nosed eindeer" "Frosty the Snowman" and more. With it's fast approach, I am preparing and organizing for the season. I'm slowing putting Christmas decorations around the house and secretly listen to Christmas music when I am home alone. (don't judge) This year we are having a Christmas eve party at our house and I am the host. My family and cousins will all be here enjoying the music, movies and sweet treats. Even though all the cousins are growing up quickly, we still come together as a family and even do Pollyanna. (also known as secret Santa) I have some great idea's and fun plans that will make this Christmas eve unforgettable, in a good way! Since mid-October, Christmas stuff has been out and getting some people in the Christmas mood. (like myself) I hope everyone enjoys the Holidays and spend it with loved ones. Cherish the time you get with them, because it doesn't last forever. Merry-almost Christmas!
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