Day 2- Fun with Technology

Thanks for sticking with it as we made our way through setting up email and Google Docs accounts.  Technology is fun and a great tool, but can be very frustrating at times!  I appreciate that you all kept at it and we finally got everyone set up!  I've made comments on your questions you posed in Google Docs, so go in and look at your document sometime to see my responses.

Besides technology, today we talked about Crab Mentality and watched a video by k-os.  If you ever want to view it again, the song is called "Crabbuckit" and can be found on YouTube.  Your homework assignment is to look for ways people bring each other low around you and complete the worksheet.

We learned about the two different mindsets: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset.  You also discovered what your current mindsets are and discussed the fact that you can change it.

We read a short piece from The Odyssey and discussed some of the obstacles that stand in Odysseus' way as he journeys home to Ithaca.  I mentioned that you may consider an audio version of this text if listening while you read is beneficial for you.  You can check out audio versions of the book at the KHS library or your local public library.  There is also a free audio version available at Librivox.  You can listen to it online, or download sections of the book as MP3 files.

Our guest speaker today was Mrs. Kim Sweesy, your grade-level counselor while you are a student at Kirkwood High School.

What is one important thing that you learned from Mrs. Sweesy's talk?  Please add your comment before the end of the day on Friday, June 24.

An Introduction to Efficacy

Welcome everyone, and thank you for a fantastic first day of class!  You were attentive, honest, and fun.  I know we are going to have a great 12 days together...and most importantly, a fantastic 4 years at Kirkwood High School.

Here's a quick recap:

Efficacy is...

The power to develop - to get better, stronger, and smarter at anything that can help you build a quality life.

Efficacy Principle #1 - Development is the foundation of a quality life.

Efficacy Principle #2 - Smart is not something you ARE.  Smart is something you GET.

Efficacy Principle #3 - Developed people are educated and principled.

We talked about Homer's famous epic poem, The Odyssey, and viewed a movie clip about the Trojan War.

Your Principal, Mrs. Miller, came to meet you and give you some valuable information about being a successful student at KHS.

What is one important thing that you learned from Mrs. Miller's talk?  Please add your comment before the end of the day on Thursday, June 23.