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Teaching Moment Idea: Thinking Big

Have you ever seen the high hurdle event at a track meet? The racers have clear vision and are focused on the finish line. They view each hurdle as a minor incontinence to overcome on their way to reaching their goal - winning the race.

They see the big picture and their focus becomes their motivation. The race becomes a vehicle they use to evaluate their strengths and the areas that need attention. Each racer understands that the event will measure all of their training, their pre-race routine and the other competitors. They remain focused on reaching their goal. The race will measure their level of mental and physical preparation.

What if your child could see the big picture and do the same thing with his education?

Students who do well in school have a clear sense of purpose. They see the big picture and understand that teachers and other adults are there to help them succeed. They ask questions, listen in class, read, do their homework on time, and do extra credit assignments.

These students see the tests, homework and quizzes as a valuable way to evaluate their strengths and areas that need attention. These measurement tools are essentially a student’s hurdles. When overcome successfully, each brings the student closer to there goal of getting a quality educational experience. Each student hurdle becomes a measurement of his preparation.

Questions for discussion:

How do you think teachers measure their class’s progress?
With the help of a coach, hurdlers excels because they practice, practice, practice. If you viewed the teacher as your coach, how would you look at homework, quizzes, and term papers differently?

Suggestions for implementation:

Find something that motivates your child and get magazines, books or tapes on that subject. Show him the big picture that success takes practice, determination and a positive outlook. Build on his success in that area and then help him understand how to apply those same principles to his school work.

8/22/06

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