Chapter 1: Knowing Students Well

I liked chapter one because it reinforced the idea that students are not empty boxes waiting to be filled up with the information that we provide them. They are actually quite full of loads of information, facts and ideas already. According to the author students want the chance to demonstrate their previously acquired knowledge.
I feel that as an educator I need to find out what students already know and use it to build upon. I especially liked the section where the immigrant students listed things that they could do or had knowledge of that might be considered “non-traditional” for education. These students were just learning English, but they provided the opportunity to bring other aspects of learning to the table such as dance, music, or even sports. I also believe that by acknowledging these accomplishments students, particularly ones who may be struggling in other subjects, would have more self efficacy and therefore do better in all subject areas.