Chapter 1: Becoming a Teacher

Joyful Things

• 1) I find joy in the fact that teaching is an important job. I want to have an impact on the world and I think teaching is a good way to do that.
• 2) I find the idea of helping students do the best they can very joyful. I like helping people succeed.
• 3) The fact that by 2012 700,000 teachers will be retired is good news for me. It makes it more likely for me to get a job in the future.

Not So Joyful Things

• 1)The fact that the standards for teachers vary from state to state makes me not joyful. It seems like a lot of work to meet these new standards just so you can work.
• 2) Having a low salary is not joyful. I need money to live.
• 3)Math and science teachers are in high demand but I am working on being an English teacher. That makes me not joyful. What if my concentration keeps me from getting a job?

Scavenger Hunt Answers

1) Go to the Kalikow Center and look at the Educational Technology. Include low tech items such as writing aids. Find three items to use in your classroom. Why?

Touch Window is very useful for people who have trouble typing.
Alpha Smart
Tango is for alternative communication.

2)Go to the Mac Lab in the Computer Center. Explore the assistive technology available on the Macs. List three things you can do to help students with disabilities use the Mac.

Display change for people with eye impairment.
Voice over for people with eye impairment.
Flash screen for people with hearing impairment.

3)Center for Human Development parking lot entrance, check with Judy on the second floor. Identify the services you or someone you know find useful.

Writing Center
Math Clinic
Plado