After coaching two basketball teams this year I was reminded how many games come down to free throws and layups. It is another example that the simple things matter. In music, the simple things are scales and technique. Without this knowledge base, playing an instrument is more difficult. In teaching I believe relationships are the most important thing.
In the end, we want out students to participate in the activities and projects we plan. Positive relationships build trust and carrying, so students are more likely to participate. It is human nature to not want to do things that we think are hard or that we are going to mess up on. As teachers we ask our students to trust us and try new and possibly scary things everyday.
Our classrooms need to be wonderful places where there is a trusting, loving and caring atmosphere. These traits cultivate a safe classroom where making mistakes and trying new things are not so scary after all. Learning involves making mistakes, but mistakes won't happen if we are too scared to try new things.
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