Chapter 4 Raise Your Expectations

I have to say, I found some of the statements the author said offensive. I have taught in a variety of school environments: small enrollment, large enrollment, disadvantaged and advantaged, etc... Yes, I have felt empathetic to many of my students over the years, but I have never and will never have low expectations for my students regardless of any extenuating circumstances. I have plainly and simply never given up on a child! There may be times when it is more difficult to connect with a particular student, but all the teachers I know find that connection.

However, I whole-heartedly agree with the author on the fact that students know when we think they are smart and capable and that high expectations must be accompanied by close, trusting relationships in which students bond with the teacher and feel safe to take a risk. This is key to not just writing, but to all areas of the educational environment.