My co-teacher was sick yesterday. Initially, I panicked. I didn't know how I could teach the whole two hours by myself. Usually I have her help for an hour, and just having another body in the classroom is so helpful. To top it off, the students took their final exam yesterday. I was hoping to have her help to monitor "wandering eyes" during the exam. But, when I got to the classroom, I took a deep breath. It wouldn't be so bad. Actually, it turned out to be one of my favorite days all summer.
I think the exam was really hard for most of them. They seemed anxious and frustrated after finishing, so I decided to give them free time. This quickly dissolved into chaos. In order to gain some structure to an otherwise lost class, I made a quick decision.
"Alright, everyone! We have some talent in this class. Why not have a talent show?" I announced. I knew they couldn't do any more geometry, but I also knew that I needed to divert their energy from talking about getting drunk and getting into fights to something more constructive.
The class responded. Minutes later, they were drawing beautiful posters for me, practicing beats for their freestyle raps, and practicing the jerk. We started off with a presentation of posters, which all turned out so well. One student, B, actually wrote me a poem. She is the sweetest girl--I will really miss her. Big Ant's rendition of the jerk had the whole class on their feet. They bounced their heads and swayed their bodies along with the beat as Big Ant rocked it out in front of the class. Then, the quietest kid in class got up to do a freestyle. Clearly, he's known for his mad talent: all the students were cheering so loud I could barely hear him. His words flowed perfectly and his rhythm was uncanny. The kid has serious talent. To top if off, he's an amazing artist. I really hope he pursues his passion in the arts. Last but certainly not least, the class jokester, G, decided to do his own freestyle. The whole class (myself included) crowded around him and beat boxed while G came up with a a "fresh" rhyme. The kids tell me he's also well-known for his talent--they call him "Big Lyricist." Again, the kid's got skill!
When the bell did ring at the end of class, the energy was so high I wish I could have bottled it and sprinkled it all over myself when I was feeling down. I actually heard them saying, "That was the best class ever!" It's like they forgot they'd just taken a huge test, which was the idea. These kids are so fun. I'm not ready to say goodbye.
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