TCH 201 Ayers Ch 4 - Summary To Teach PDF

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Chapter 4 Summary...

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Professor Medow TCH 201 To Teach: Ayers Chapter 4 In Chapter 4 “Building Bridges” Ayers discusses the importance of bridging the disconnect in students conceptions of learning. Ayers also discusses the different kind of bridges students cross throughout their time in school and what happens beyond the walls of the classroom. One type of bridge that ayers discusses is the bridge of learning. H  e talks about problem solving and critical thinking to work towards a goal. Throughout the chapter, the children are working towards creating a literal bridge for their class pet bingo. This literal bridge also serves as a metaphorical bridge. Bingo is faced with the problem of not being able to reach part of his living space, so the students are tasked with finding a solution. They overcome countless obstacles in the face of trying to create this bridge for Bingo such as his ability with his body, the steepness of the incline to ensure that he can still climb, creating railings so he won’t fall off, etc. Students can also cross bridges into adulthood. As they grow older and are entrusted with more responsibilities, they cross bridges that eventually lead to adulthood. S  ometimes there are ceremonies to commemorate these transitions such as Bar Mitzvahs, Quinceaneras, and others that can be cultural or religious. These ceremonies commemorate the children on what they accomplished in their youth, and introduce them to the duties and responsibilities that lie ahead for them. It is a celebration of their childhood and future of adulthood. T  hese celebrations elaborate on

what is expected of them from this point on, upholding the ideals that are expected of them within their communities and cultures. Another kind of bridge that can be crossed is that of social knowledge. Ayers uses the example of being aware of comments you make because they can be taken offensively, whether that be in the form of racism, sexism, etc. It is extremely important to be courteous to those around you and to be socially aware of the issues that are going on in society. A similar term to this is being politically correct, and ensuring that all comments are presented in a way that is mindful of other cultures and other people. There are also bridges that bring power. By voicing opinions and taking actions towards fixing wrong doings, there is a sense of power when change comes about. By taking these steps towards a greater change, people are crossing bridges towards creating a more people voiced society and towards a more common good. On the other end of this kind of bridge is a goal, and once people take action, they are one step closer to achieving this goal. Typically these goals are not often only seen by one person, and are viewed by many. By one person taking the first step and voicing their opinion , others will join and follow suit. The most efficient way of seeing change is by taking action and by crossing the bridge....