This is why they were startled. The room looked a little different because I rearranged their seating. I thought it would be better with having discussions all together at one table. I thought we had a round table in storage but when I looked there wasn't one to be found. So, I made use of what we have. And here we are. They really liked sitting all together and I thought our class flowed pretty well. They seemed more comfortable discussing things with one another this way and I noticed less side conversations.
The back wall has the 2 extra tables which will hold the supplies they may or may not need for class. I'll just have them get what they need when they need it.
This is just another look at our classroom. I really like it!
Oh, today's theme for Homecoming was Thrift Shop day. I truly felt like Macklemore riding my bike looking ridiculous. Just check out the music video to his song "Thrift Shop" if you aren't familiar.
Today we discussed what our consciences are and the difference between virtues and vices. We even got into natural law, the old/new law, Church law, and divine law. (We got that far in the first class and my second class will need to catch up to the definitions/explanations on the different types of laws.
I don't know why, but I found myself shocked being asked to explain what's going on with the government. Oh boy. After my Facebook status fiasco, I thought I was being recorded or something. However, I very honestly told them what was happening. I did my best talking as a reporter rather than someone with an opinion. I opened by saying that as a Catholic teacher, I am here to only speak on what the Church teaches. The Church does not associate with any political party, therefore, you most decide what you believe with a well-formed conscience. I asked them to refrain from asking me my opinion and they respected that. To see the concern and to hear their comments, I thought, ok, if these 16 year olds can see that something is wrong with the way congress is acting and the effects of this shutdown....Anyway, these were some of their thoughts after projecting an article from CNN:
"So basically a small amount of people are throwing a temper tantrum like 2-year olds?"
"Really, that's what this is all about?"
"Can you do that over something that's already a law?"
"I can't wait to learn more when I take my government class."
"Wait, so the tea-partiers, that's a real thing?"
As a teacher, they trust me. They trust me with their comments and their questions. It was amazing to hear the way they were opening up. I think it had to do with getting to know them for what, 6 weeks now and with the way we were sitting. I really do. They asked each other questions and they were so respectful towards one another. Nothing new, but you never know once politics come up in a classroom.
Thanks again for all of you who are praying for my students and I. The Holy Spirit is truly at work and I am excited to see what tomorrow brings us.
God bless you and keep you.
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