Games

Games are a great way to engage students in learning. When they actively become involved in games they enter into a 'flow' of learning. They may not even realize that they are learning because they are so involved. While playing a game students minds are usually fully involved in the game and not wondering or worrying about other issues going on. This generally is not the case when students are given worksheets or bookwork. Using games generally creates a positive learning environment which is important for fostering students desire to learn. Students may feel more relaxed and capable of learning. When they are having fun while learning they tend to remember the concept being taught because it relates to something they enjoy. I plan on introducing a topic to my students and then use games to reinforce the concept. I think that if they are having fun playing the game they will become motivated to increase their knowledge on that subject. It may even act as a bridge to other related topics. To say the least using games in the classroom can be beneficial as long as it is being used correctly.

Motivation

Motivation is the desire to move forward. It gives us a reason to do what we do. It is the driving force that helps us reach a goal, and what we fall back on when we become discouraged. The motivating aspects in my life are the reasons I get up every morning. My job provides money and benefits which motivate me to go everyday. I also pride myself on accountability which is why I have never called in. The feeling of accomplishment is why I strive for good grades, and the job I will find in the end is why I continue my education. Without motivation I believe I would go nowhere, but because I have it I am now here. =)

I'm here!!! :)

connection between culture and literacy

Our culture sets standards and expectations that we strive to meet. Many of us have goals which are derived from a desire to accomplish a culture oriented standard. Many of the cultures that influence our lives today are geared toward becoming successful in life. I think it is safe to say that we all want to be able to make a life for ourselves including being financially, emotionally, and physically stable. This is something that our culture has determined and taught us as being valuable. This common goal that many of us strive for requires literacy. Literacy is required to satisfy just about any need of ours. Whether it is filling out an application for a job or reading the buttons on a microwave; literacy is a must! We must learn to be literate to be successful in our culture, which has led to the emphasis of literacy in our schools. To say the least, literacy is culturally driven.