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Post by Veronica on Feb 14, 2018 12:55:52 GMT -7
The Middle School Program is dynamic and is a valuable asset. The program has prompted very in-depth discussions in my class. It is also enhancing the cadet's communication skills. This curriculum provides a platform for the cadets to have discussions and while we are talking, it still allows, me, as the teacher, to gently point the cadets in the right direction. For example, when we started the lesson; “Your Map for Success,” one cadet told me that when someone is rude to him, he becomes very obnoxious to the person. He will even go out of his way to make certain he would have an acrimonious relationship with that individual. This was the perfect opportunity for me to talk with him and help him to change his actions and approach the situation differently. Before the class ended, he said; “I see how my actions showed that I was not being a leader, and I like what you said to do in handling the situation when someone is rude to me.”
My Motto is: "The Future of the World is in my Classroom Today."
With social media, computer games, and just plain everyday life having a negative influence on our young people; we, as educators, have an obligation to try to point them in the right direction and deposit positive thoughts in their life. Use the CHiSL Program to assist you. You will be happy you did. |
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Post by Victor Torres on May 2, 2018 19:34:02 GMT -7
NOTE: I posted the below synopsis in another thread for viewing.
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I have been using the program for four years now. I have to say that it has it's plus and minuses.
The module system works well for me up to a certain point. I work at a middle school and teach all three grades. Since this program is based on a three year system, many of my Cadets return to me. Generally, Cadets enter the program in the 6th grade but not always. Many students enter the program in the 7th and 8th grades too.
The issue which I have been experiencing is the following. When my students complete the first year of the program, we cover certain modules that first year. The problem lies in the following year. Because of scheduling, my second year and third year cadets often find themselves in classes with first year Cadets. Many times the first year cadets outnumber the second and third year cadets.
The problem lies in that I am forced to reteach the original modules in order to introduce my first year group to the program. My second and third year cadets are then forced to redo the first year program because I cannot move on to the second and third year curriculum. That is a problem.
I'm entering my fifth year with the program and will face the same problem next year. I can never get out of the first year program because of the way the students are grouped.
I remember when I was young and in the Boy Scouts. I had a Boy Scout manual that I used to accomplish tasks. Every scout progressed based on his motivation and was rewarded accordingly. As a scout, I never had to wait for someone else. I simply moved on and worked on earning my badges. Is there a way where the CHiSL curriculum can be modified accordingly? I believe it would do wonders for those older cadets who have to repeatedly do the same lessons because I am obligated to introduce Year 1 over and over again. It is a problematic issue that I cannot solve.
I believe that this program can be modified so that the instructor serves more as "the guide on the side" rather than the "sage on the stage". Students need to be accountable and rewarded based on their individual efforts, particularly older cadets. I would like for you to consider this suggestion and incorporating a merit based system within the program.
The program is a good start as it is. However, I could see a great deal of improvement that could be made to it. This program, with some adjustments, could move from a decent program to a great program.
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Post by Veronica on Jul 30, 2018 22:01:21 GMT -7
Is it possible that you could start the lesson, but let one of you star students lead the class lesson. When you have to repeat the lessons with kids that have taken the course before, they often benefit if you use them to lead the class. I’m sure you already know that. I would just facilitate. I would let the kids who has taken the class already show that they are truly a leader and have them lead the class or break them into groups and let them Lead the discussions.
Additionally, why don’t you create your own merit or reward system; for example use some of the JOTC Ribbons. Give out a good conduct ribbon, or a good personal appearance ribbon, or good citizenship, perfect attendance ribbon. Allow the kids to wear them on their uniform. Make them a squad leader. There’s your merit system. You can even design your own cord and award them a battle cord to wear on their uniform. There are also arch pins that you can allow them to wear. The ribbons gives the cadets bragging rights. It will make some cadets work harder to achieve those ribbons. Make it a nice ceremony and you will have kids asking all kind of questions as to how they too can achieve ribbons to wear.
You are the program. You have to be creative as well. Use some music. Create discussion groups. Create group projects. I have kids that take my summer leadership class and then they attend the academy in the fall and they are right back in my class. They think they are going to get the same block of instruction, which they are, but it’s delivered in a different way than what I do in the summer. This year cadets will get the same lesson, just not delivered the same way I taught it last year.
Cut promotion orders and promote the kids.
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Post by Andy Bennetts on Aug 9, 2018 14:27:23 GMT -7
Hi Victor,
Thanks for reaching out to me. I look forward to our continued conversations in helping you/us find the best way forward.
As I mentioned on the phone call, the program was developed as an ongoing, 3-year program. Ideally, you could work with your counselors to place returning students in a separate class, like JCC 201, and all new students regardless of whether they were 6th, 7th, or 8th in JCC 101. If that CAN'T happen, there are a myriad of possible solutions. The Course Guide I just emailed to you is a valuable resource for instructors to be able to pick and choose the Modules they want to teach their cadets. There is no rule saying that you must start with C1 every year. Look through the Course Guide, use your MTS (Master Training Schedule) and customize a program offering that fits the needs of your cadets and school. And if you have questions or are looking for suggestions, ask the CHISL team (we always try to make ourselves available) and/or your fellow instructors here!
We aren't privy to all the goings-on of your school, however, the CHISL team and this community ALL want your program to succeed! Let's work together to make that a reality!
Sincerely,
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Post by Erickcip on Aug 29, 2020 14:22:25 GMT -7
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