Chapter 4

I found the information in chapter 4 very beneficial for my future in teaching Social Studies. So often teachers of this subject focus on the text, without bringing any life or excitement to the content area. I really do believe that Social Studies (or any other subject) should involve more than just text. The text should be used to promote the content, but it should not be the teachers only method of teaching. Three areas that I most enjoyed from chapter four were the sections on encouraging the students. Although this is said over and over again, I think that educators often forget how much of an impact encouraging one's students can have. Although this chapter focused on encouraging in Social studies, students should receive encouragement throughout all subjects.

I really agree with the text when it says "every student can be a high achiever in that everyone can always better." No matter what level a student is on, they can always try to do better. Weather the student is failing and tries to do better by making a D, or weather a student is on honor roll and tries to become top of the class, everyone can try do to better. The focus of encouragement is usually set toward one specific target. Only those who are doing well receive encouragement to do better. For example, when students make As they are told good job. Rarely do those students who continue to struggle with lower grades hear those words. In my opinion those are the students that need the most encouragement. With a boost of confidence, theses students will develop a drive to do better. Academics is not the only area that students should receive encouragement.

The book brings out the students should receive encouragement for thoughtfulness. I take this as students should be encouraged to be kinder individuals. Many take for grant it that thoughtfulness is something that is taught before students enter school. If the student is not kind upon entering into school, they are just mean kids. I really do think that thoughtfulness is something that is taught, and can be taught at any point. Although it will be more difficult the older the child is, it can be taught. By encouraging those students who do already practice thoughtfulness, other students will be more likely to begin practicing kinder actions. When those who are not accustom to being thoughtful receive encouragement for being thoughtful, they will most likely continue with their good habits.

Creativity is something that all children posses at an early age. Most take this for granit, and do nothing to foster this natural talent young children posses. I have often heard older students say that they are not creative and can not take part in art class or thing of that nature. If encouraged at an early age to own their creative ability, students will be able to produce creativity at an older age. Encouraging students to do creative things can result in more creative works in the future. When students realize that they will not be put down for their creative work no matter what it lookds like but encouraged, they will be more likely to continue on with their creativity.