From: GJB71563 at aol.com <GJB71563>
Date: Thu, 4 Oct 2007 07:58:40 EDT

  Ah, yes - 8th grade is that tough transitional year from middle school to high school where young people are trying to forge identities that may be antithetical to who and what they truly are. Oftentimes, these "masks" take on ugly guises such as disrespect, crudeness, and feigned boredom. These are usually signs of trying to fit in with the crowd even though it may not be an individual choice or opinion. I know - I have an 11th grader who was once an 8th grader and I also have an 8th grader. Prior to enter the field of librarianship, I was a high school English teacher. So, I do empathize with your complaints. It is an awful feeling to dread a class that is coming in - I know, I've been there!
  I know you are crunched for time and you have deadlines and accountability, but have you ever thought of reading aloud to the children? Even for a short while before you begin your lesson? Pick something that will appeal to both boys and girls, perhaps a contemporary popular book that is a little bit edgy
(not too edgy - you wouldn't want any complaints, right?) I used to read to my 9th, 10th and 12th graders and they loved it!
  In addition, you need to set ground rules (which I am sure you have already done). Let them know that disrespect will not be tolerated! Don't even give them one chance on this one!
  I hope this helps. Good Luck.
  Gail Brown Voorheesville Public Library



 
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Received on Thu 04 Oct 2007 06:58:40 AM CDT