Today was the last math class. We had a great lesson involving statistics and social justice. I just love how Tobie thinks of different and exciting ways to integrate topics. She has a great way of making math appropriate and meaningful, even when I know better than to make excuses. I know the US consumes food and resources more than any other country, but it was also interesting to see myself compared to the others in my class. We were different and similar in some unexpected ways. For instance, there are a lot of people who identify as Christians, many people make decent money, and most everyone has food and technology resources. It is great to not only see me compared to the world, but to my class. I had never done that before.

Tobie also incorporates a lot of movement in her lessons. While I find this annoying, I am sure her students love it. (It’s not about what I like anyway). She is always keeping students engaged and has the philosophy that activities minimize behavioral issues. I am not sure if I agree at this point in my life, but with practice I will be able to find activities that are easy to monitor and fun to do. I honestly think she is an amazing teacher and would have been blessed to learn math from her. She has the right mix of stern and cool that students just love.

Now that the class is over, I really see a difference in how I teach. I am making sure that the concepts are understood before I confuse lessons with vocabulary. I am constantly monitoring and assessing, not judging. If a student needs more work, they are given help not labeled as “low.” I am beginning to find places where I can fit into student understanding. I am realizing this math thing is about facilitating, not instructing. I credit Tobie for these huge leaps in understanding.