Millo at Large

Upon my arrival at school I was greeted by Arpi, a 9th grade social studies teacher who I would be working with. We discussed my week plan and what I would like to prepare for the classes throughout the week. She let me know that for today’s plan there were no expectations and I could merely just observe.

Every day begins with an assembly, and today in front of the school I was to introduce myself. To quickly prepare, I asked myself the question, what would I like to hear from a stranger? I stated my name, my age, my school, and what sports I liked, ending it with an invitation for anyone to come up and ask me any questions! I also expressed my excitement to be at their school as well as for the week ahead. 

I started off by observing a 6th grade class learning multiplication. At my Middle School we were just expected to memorize the multiplication table, but this teacher taught using the number line! A method that got all the kids excited for learning by simply implementing visuals into their lesson.

I then moved into a different class, also 6th grade, where I was expecting to once again observe. Little did I know they were waiting for me to teach their Environmental Sciences class, which I did not mind. Eagerly, I jumped in and taught about Ocean Acidification, but at a level that they would understand. I explained how various human activities produce harmful substances known as fossil fuels. How, over time, these pollutants are released into the atmosphere and eventually absorbed by our oceans.

The students were amazed and filled with questions, eager to know how they could help stop this process. I explained that the best thing they could do is to consider the broader impact of their actions, not just on those around them but on the environment as a whole.

I concluded the day with a delightful lunch, contemplating what actions I could take to improve myself.