enlightening responses to writing prompt

We can learn much from the children:

I offer these student responses to (what is apparently) a lesson closure prompt somewhere along the lines of "What have you learned so far in our exciting unit about the ocean?"

Enjoy, and I hope to see you on the 6th!
--------------------------------------------------------------------

1) Sharks are ugly and mean, and have big teeth, just like Emily Richardson. She's not my friend no more. (Kylie age 6)

2) When ships had sails, they used to use the trade winds to cross the ocean. Sometimes, when the wind didn't blow, the sailors would whistle to make the wind come. My brother said they would be better off eating beans. (William age 7)

3) I like mermaids. They are beautiful, and I like their shiny tails. How do mermaids get pregnant? (Helen age 6)

And, finally, in an attempt to remind us of the choppy seas some of our students have to overcome in order to get their education:

4) I'm not going to write about the sea. My baby brother is always screaming and being sick, my Dad keeps shouting at my Mom, and my big sister has just got pregnant, so I can't think what to write. (Amy age 6)

next meeting of the group!

Greetings, coworkers!

The next meeting of the BVSD English teachers' Conversation Café is just around the corner!

This group has become a rich conduit of collective knowledge, experience, and passion for the purpose of idea-sharing across the District. I believe we all benefit when great minds connect!

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, February 6th at Cafe Sole in S. Boulder, beginning at 4:00. 'Hope you can make it, and feel free to bring a friend.

If you can't attend this month's meeting, you can view a diary of our conversation at www.thingsthatsputter.blogspot.com

Sincerely,
Clint Locks, moderator