The Measure of Success

As we learn, we expand our minds and sometimes we struggle for understanding during this process. It is our job as teachers to not let students give up when things become difficult but to motivate them to try and try again. I am learning that through struggle comes frustration and it is through hard work and determination that we can overcome some of life's most trying times. Learning a new language for some of my students is exactly the struggle they face each and every day. The last thing I want for them to think is that it's too hard and to give up. I've been in a similar situation where sweat and tears were just the beginning of my triumph. I find myself more determined than ever to help these students understand that learning is not always easy and through the continuous use of practice that we will learn together how to do things.

Remembering that each student is at a different learning level and that their strengths and weaknesses are so vast is key. I am still working on really knowing my students so that when it does come for the time to work with them I am meeting their levels. How do I best measure their abilities?