An Inconvenient Class

I'd like to share something that happened to me the other day while teaching a social studies class. Without naming the class, the school, or the students involved, I would like to tell you all about showing Al Gore's film An Inconvenient Truth in class. As various facts and figures were put forward by Mr. Gore, students engaged in the requisite "wow"s and "I didn't know that"s. However, one student, who continually tries to see how much he can push my buttons, kept saying things such as "This movie is BS" or "Oh my God this is boring." After taking him aside and dressing him down a bit, the class continued without further incident. At the end of the class, I required the students to answer a few questions about the film. While the student in question chose to take a zero on the assignment and not pass it in, many of the other responses I received were very interesting. One student in my class who is very quiet but does some amazing written work, in response to the question "Does An Inconvenient Truth do a good job in presenting the issue of global warming? In what ways could the film be improved?", wrote this:
"Yes, I believe that Mr. Gore's film does an excellent job in presenting the issue. This issue seems to be a very important one, and An Inconvenient Truth is a harsh and uncompromising analysis of the problems we may one day face. Unfortunately, I think that some of the film's impact may have been lost on some in the class. When I heard the comment that the film was 'boring' I wanted to vomit. How can anyone be so narrowminded to not even listen to what's being said, even if you don't agree with it?"
Needless to say, I was very pleased with this student's response, and full marks were awarded. This just goes to show you that even when something seems to "go wrong" in a classroom, benefits can arise from it. The second student's outrage over what was said may have further fueled her desire to take a stand on the issue or to one day be involved in active works to solve issues such as these.

Sorry I've been so reticent to post lately, I have been extremely busy in the classroom. But, I have some fantastic news! As of yesterday, December 15th, my student teaching has ended! As of Monday, December 18th, my actual teaching begins! That's right, I've been hired to cover a medical leave at St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Grande Prairie, Alberta. It's a short term contract, but I am very much looking forward to working (for PAY this time!) with all my former teachers from my high school days! And, wonder of wonders, I'm actually starting to get used to being called "Mr. Gunther." I know, I'm scared too.

Have a great weekend!