June 11

It is almost the end of May and my presentation is going to be next month. I am very nervous and feel time is going very fast. After seeing Ivan's presentation I am scared that I can't top his presentation. I even keep having nightmares about not being able to do my presentation. I just have to re focus on my passion which it is to teach. I have to make the audience feel my motivation and tell them all about my experience. I have to make it happen and make the best book and the best pamphlet they have ever seen.

School four

Today, I went down to school four and helped out the teachers for field day. It was very exciting to have a part in their field day. What turn out to be even better is that I was assigned to help my sponsor Sra. Montanez. I have to say that many of the elementary students where very active in all the games they played. They found a lot of encouragement when their teacher was cheering them on and helping them win the game. In addition, they where even more motivated when their parents came to watch them.

1st Senior Project Presentation

Yesterday, we experienced a historical event that is going down in the Lindenwold books. Our first presentation for Senior Project was presented by Ivan Pinero. I was really impressed by his presentation and he set high expectations for the next to come. He demonstrated the audience that he learned something and that he enjoyed doing his project. Moving along, I really enjoyed his presentation and learned many knew things. Overall, the presentation was a home run and Mr. Abrams and Mr. Snyder did a fantastic job. All we have left now is to finish the rest of the presentation and hit more home runs. I am very confident that everyone else will do a great job to.

period 7 spahish class

Before, leaving to see my sponsor I decided to visit my mentor. When I walked inside her classroom, Ms. Kelly was playing a study game for the finals. Spanish can be really fun when you have an amazing teacher like her. She invited me to have a part in the game. In other words lead the class and correct them if they made a mistake. I have to admit I was a bit scared and nervous. Overall,I know I did okay and still have to work very hard to one day reach Ms. Kelly's level of teaching. Moving along, another thing I can get use too, is sitting in the teacher's chair, You definitely can't compare the seat of the teacher with the students.

Evaluators

My mentor Ms. Kelly gave me the advice to blog on how I decided to pick my evaluators. My three evaluators are Ms. Haffner (councilor),Mrs. Clark (special education teacher), Mrs.Cavalo(Language Supervisor).


Ms. Haffner has been very helpful throughout my senior year and basically knows my life. She has been a great councilor, friend and mentor. I decided to choose her because I knew she would feel my inspirational side of been a teacher.


Moving along, Mrs Clark has been the supervisor over the Bible club and she basically makes sure the students are alright. In many of my blogs I make clearly that God is first in my life and that I want to teach at a Christian School. Mrs. Clark knows that side of me and if the evaluators don't understand. I know for fact Mrs. Clark will make the evaluators see it the way I see it, and feel my Passion.

Furthermore, since Mrs. Cavalo is a language supervisor, I see in her what one day I want to become. She has gone through the whole process of becoming a Spanish teacher and knows how much I want this opportunity to become a teacher.

"Field Day"

Since I am not going to go to prom, Mrs.Thomas our gym teacher asked me if I could do her a favor. While the juniors and seniors are going to attend their prom, the elementary students are having their field day. Of course I saw this as an opportunity to work with kids and make connections for my senior project. Even though id tough working with little kids I am going to have a blast. What makes it even better is that I get to leave school for periods 2nd,3rd,4th and 5th period. I look forward to see a lot of competition among the students and let the games begin!!!!

Lion choice award

Coming back from Florida I remembered that "Lion's choice award" was on the Monday when we came back from Senior trip. Deep in heart something told me to check the mail box because I knew someone had picked me. Ever since I was a freshman I have wanted to get chosen for such an honor. As soon as I arrived at home the letter was definitely in my mail box. I was jumping off the walls and showing off everyone about my award. I am so happy that the teacher who picked me was Ms. Kelly, she has been my mentor and a friend I really admire.

VACATION OVER

5-18-09

Sadly, the senior trip is over and have 5 weeks left till graduation. I did not expected but through my trip I made a lot of connections to my senior project. When we arrived at Epcot one of Disney's parks, I explored many countries. For example, Mexico, this country of course was the best to explore and adventures. The biggest attractions in Mexico was the big pyramid seen above. Once you go inside you explore the Mexican culture and what makes it even better is that the workers are Mexican too. In other words you truly feel you are Mexico because you have the real food, clothing, and music. I got inspired to wear a traditional Mexican dress during my presentation.

"Senior Trip"

5-11-09

I am so excited because tomorrow we are leaving to Florida with the Senior class. I have been waiting for this trip since freshman year. What makes this even better is that my best friend is coming along as well. The bad side about this trip is that I am not going to be able to visit my sponsor or blog. In addition, continue to work on my presentation. Overall, I am going to have a lot of fun and make this experience the best.

Agenda

5-7-09

Today Mr. Abrams sat down and helped me plan my pamphlet. Since I want to be a teacher I decided to create a mini agenda but at the same time keep it simple. He gave me so many great ideas to make my agenda better. Before, I really did not know how to start it off ,but after his wonderful tips I feel more prepare. Before working in "Word" I plan what the pages are going to look like by planning it in paper, in other words called " a dummy book". I also had to incorporate photo shop into my work to make it better. I better start working fast because time is flying very fast. I believe in myself and I will have a fantastic finish project.

Franci

5-7-09 me and my freshman

Through out this journey of being a mentor to a group of kids. I have had a close relationship with one students whose name is Franci. I have truly worked very hard with him as well as his other mentors who have helped him succeeded in his freshman year. At first he was not working at his potential but now I see a big change in him. Looking back at the 1st marking period, he really stepped up to the plate. All his teachers can see a big difference in him. He has even worked hard to get out of 9th period. In addition, he has a B in math which is the greatest news ever because he was struggling a lot in that class. I truly admire him and I am very proud of him.

9th period

5-7-09


In the program of freshman seminar if a student is falling two or more classes they automatically enroll in 9th period. 9th period is not a punishment but a class where students stay after school and both the teacher and senior mentor help the student get their work done. The whole goal behind this program is to help the student better her or his grades. At the beginning one of my students was struggling a lot with his grades so he got stuck in 9th period. I always encouraged him to work harder and complete all his work so he would be able to get out of 9th period. I know it took long but he accomplished his goal on getting out of 9th period. I am just so proud of his motivation and determination he had on getting out. Now he can finally get out of school at 2:19 pm instead of 3:20. I have talked to him and he thanked me for always been there for him. I remember the day he told me he was out of 9th period, I was jumping off the walls. I have seen him grow in so many levels that I am just amazed of the person he has become. My whole goal as a Senior Mentor was just to impact a student's life and I believe I have accomplish it.

teacher appreciation day

5-5-09

Through out this week schools around the country are celebrating teacher appreciation day but May fifth is actually the official teacher appreciation day. I really appreciate all the hard hours they put in their students. I love all the posters around the school describing teachers as mentors that love,inspire and teach their students. Lindenwold should plan a breakfast for all the wonderful teachers and honor them there. I often always see students that don't make a big deal about it,when they should. What if you worked very hard and no one never thanked you? Deeply, I now for a fact that you would feel bad and not appreciated. Moving along, every student should thank a teacher this week for their hard work. As students we should cherish teachers every day like diamonds.

Cinco de mayo

5-5-09
Today is Cinco De Mayo, and school four will be coming to Lindenwold high school to watch a performance and learn at the same time. After, watching their performance a was a bit disappointed. As a Mexican American I did not see my culture been portray well. No offence to no one but it seen more like black history month mixed with Caribbean music. In addition, when the person started dancing it was nothing like Mexicans dancing. The children in my opinion got a bad prospective on our culture. Overall, the children did have a lot of fun and enjoyed the performance. They deserved it after working very hard in their NJ ASK test.

"Los catrines"

Today I am going to meet with David Suro, he is the owner of "Los Catrines". Los Catrines is a Mexican restaurant in Philadelphia. Earlier in the year my mentor had planned to take Cindi, Malanie and I to the restaurant. Meanwhile, this is a good opportunity because my project is to write a book on successful immigrant people. Mr. Suro qualifies perfectly for my book because he came from Mexico to the USA as an immigrant and by working very hard he now owns his business. Also, he even created his own tequila called "azul" which in English means "blue".

Moving Along,Tequilas got its' start back in 1986 while located at 1511 Locust Street. Owner David Suro, a native of Guadalajara, grew up near agave fields in the state of Jalisco.
He went to school with the children of agave farmers and tequila producers. David met his wife, Annette, while working as a waiter in Cancun. He followed her home to Philadelphia and got a job at the only Mexican restaurant in town (El Metate). A year later, he bought out the owner and renamed it Tequilas. That is just a little taste on his biography and how he made it happen.

Through my book I want people to believe that your dreams can become true and Mr. Suro's biography is going to make it happen.I am truly just one step ahead on what is going to motivate many and hopefully published.

http://tequilasphilly.com/

My Anecdote

Growing up was very difficult probably because my parents were not able to help me through my school work. At the same time, I felt bad for them because they did not have the opportunity to get an education, and they could not help me in my school work. Everywhere we went I had to be a translator for them; instead of them helping me, I was helping them.Furthermore, everywhere I went to help my parents, I saw many other Hispanics that lacked education and their children suffered from it.I always wanted to better myself at everything I did. Realizing that I was the key to my own success (and others), I mounted a burden that included helping others who did not have an opportunity to receive an education. I wanted to be the opportunity of education that anyone could take advantage of. For this reason, I decided to become a Spanish teacher. In addition, I picked Ms. Kelly and Mrs. Montanez to help mentor me through this journey. This two ladies are absolutely the best spanish teachers Lindenwold district has.

Sra. montanez visit

4/30/09

Yesterday, I went to visit Sra. Montanez at school four. I arrived to her classroom but the children where on their break outside. Mean while, we sat together and I helped her cut paper dolls. She told me her plans for class which was to show them a video clip on "Cinco de Mayo". She showed them this clip to introduce them to Mexican culture. This clip really explained what "Cinco the Mayo" was all about. At the end one thing that was really funny was when the children started singing "cielito lindo". It's a very popular Mexican song,they had a lot of fun singing this song.After, the clip was done they colored their dolls and went over on what they had learned. Next, week they will be coming to Lindenwold High School to celebrate "Cinco de Mayo".

"Poem Game"

In Senior Project class we are celebrating poetry and to help boost our speaking techniques we have to read a poem in front of the class. I have to say I liked this activity better than the dictionary game. The only hard part was choosing one that was short and related to my future career. My friend Cindi helped me find a short poem on teaching. I really enjoyed hearing my fellow classmates read their poem and motivated me not to be afraid to read my poem.

Overall, Mr. Abrams said I did okay, I just have to work harder on my expression. So I will go home and practice reading my poem in front of my mirror, so next time we do it, I impress Mr. Abrams with my poem.

The following is the poem that I presented in front of the class;

I want to teach my students more than lessons in a book;
I want to teach them deeper things that people overlook-
The value of a rose in bloom, its use and beauty, too
A sense of curiosity to discover what is true;
How to think and how to choose the right above the wrong,
How to live and learn each day and grow up to be strong;
To teach them always how to gain in wisdom and in grace,
So they will someday make the world a brighter, better place.
Lord, let me be a friend and guide to give these minds a start
Upon their way down life’s long road, then I’ll have done my part.

bible posters

The above poster is the one we are going to use to invite students to the club. At this time their is no emotion to describe how much this posters mean to me. As everyone knows we meet every Monday at 2:20 in room D201. I had some problems with my previous posters, but after having a meeting with the principal, I created new posters that regulated all rules. This club is very important to me and hope the club won't have any more problems.

So far we have had 10 -15 students attending the club and it's a lot of fun to talk about the bible and most importantly God. Next week I plan in bringing a book on Jesus Christ teenage years, it's absolutely one of the best books for teenagers. Indeed,I know the group will enjoy reading this awesome book. 

Lastly, now everyday when I walk through the hallways I feel so happy to see the Young Ambassadors posters. I feel as though I have reached another mile stone in my life. The whole group has been greatly blessed to have this opportunity to have a bible club in school. Slowly but in time this club will make a difference in Lindenwold High School. I might not be here next year but I promise that this club will last forever and make a difference.

Senior Mentors

Senior Mentors 2009






It's almost the end of year and Mr. M is already looking for the next Senior Mentors of 2010. He asked me to interview some of the future Senior Mentors. It's so cool to be in the other side, just last year I was getting interviewed to become a Mentor and it was really scary. When interviewing this juniors, I am looking for hard working,determine role models. The job of a mentor needs a lot of motivation and passion. Not anyone can handle kids and mentor them at the same time. Our job is very seriously and deals with having a strong relationship with the freshman. Any Senior Mentor at this time will say that mentoring takes a lot of hard work and time and at the same it's really fun. We are making a change in many students lives and helping them through high school.I want the freshman class of 2010 to have the best Senior Mentors ever.
Truly this experience has helped me improve as a person and prepare me for my future career. This opportunity is once in a life time. I was very fortune to get picked for such an honor job and will take all this experience with me forever. I wish good luck to the Senior Mentors of 2010 and  encourage them to make a difference in their freshman.

"Dream Act"

Recently, my history teacher Mrs. Hansbury gave me an article on Immigration. This article explained how many colleges would like to help immigrants and give them aid to let them attend college. Their are many illegal immigrants that have a great GPA but can not go to college due to money problems. Many college presidents have accepted the idea on giving loans to immigrant students. They believe this idea will help the country with the bad economy crisis we are going through. In other words we will have more tax payers and help the economy. Some people don't like the idea on giving loans to immigrants like tax papers. Hopefully, now that Obama is president this Act will pass and benefit the economy and many students.

Dictionary Game

We recently played a game that tested our public speaking techniques. It looked easy but it was the hardest thing ever. We basically picked a word for our partner and then had to talk about that word for a minute. When it was my turn it felt like, I believed that the world was almost over. My word was meteorology and I new what it meant but I just could not explain it. My brain suddenly stopped working. Even though I knew everyone I felt so embarrassed to speak in front of the class. Thanks to my bff Cindi I made it through and finished fine. I just have to keep practicing the dictionary game until I become a pro at it.

Taking the Stage

A couple of days ago when I was watching this show called taking the stage I made a connection to Senior Project. In Cincinnati’s their is a School for Creative and Performing Arts, kids have to audition in order to get in. For Senior Project we had to get interviewed in order to get in. All the students in Senior Project have a passion for teaching,designing, cooking, writing, therapist, guidance counselor,photographer,architect,ultra sound and even environmentalist. We are all very determine to make our dreams happen. Like those students in Cincinnati we are also very talented and offer different things to the plate.  Where ever our path might be I know we are going to be very successful in everything we do. 13 different kids in Lindenwold High School are going to be the change the world needs.

Sponsor meeting

Before we went on Easter Break I had the chance to meet with my sponsor. The students are now learning shapes . What was cool about this time is that I got to sit with the kindergarten and third grade student. My first class with Sra. Montanez was the kindergarten class and of course they are the cuties students to work with. They are just so active and they enjoy getting praised. I basically went around helping them match their shapes. It's really funny seeing them in action and I love when they ask me for help.

After, Sra. Montanez was finish with both of her classes she took me in her office. This was the first time I ever saw it. She explained to me how before she had her own classroom ,but just last year they got a new fourth grade teacher so they gave her a smaller room inside the library. I felt really bad for her, but she says she likes it because she does not have to clean after the students. Overall, If I were in her position I would miss not having my own classroom.

Moving on, Cinco de Mayo is almost coming and Sra. Montanez plans to have an activity in the LHS auditorium and bring all Lindenwold school four students. In honor of Cinco de Mayo she invited some musicians to portray the culture and so the kids can have fun.

April 21st

Answer some of the following in short paragraph format.
• What did you learn from Vic Levitan’s visit today?
• What new ideas do you have for your project?
• How has your course of action changed?
• At this point, which are your greatest challenges for pulling off the Project portion of Senior Project Se

From Vic Levitan's visit today I learn how to better my presentation and the materials I will need. Before that meeting I had no clue on how I was going to present my book. One thing I did not know is that the judges are going to read my journals and blogs. In other words, I have to make my journal extra good. I have to describe my passion and love to education through my blog and journal. Moving on, for my package I will work with Cindi because she is very creative and always has wonderful ideas. I have realized that I have to work very hard to make it happen and have the best presentation. At this point my biggest challenge probably would be to create a book that will make people believe in opportunities.

Besides creating t -shirts for our class,Cindi and me are thinking of creating a one minute video clip on everyones future career. I believe it is going to be an awesome idea and everyone will enjoy our presantation.

third marking period

I just can't believe how it's almost the end of the third marking period. Easter break is coming and next thing you know graduation will be right over the corner. I can't believe how time has blown away. It feels like it was just yesterday when I entered the school as a freshman. I have so many good and bad memories but both have strengthen me through life. If I could go back I would definitely change many things. As the end of the third marking period and the beginning of the fourth marking period. I have made it my goal to do my best because this will be my last chance in high school.

Inspirational people

Inspirational People is going to me the name of my book. I have decided to chose five people who have come to his country as immigrants and now are very successful. In other words, they did not go with the flow, but took a stand and did something differently. Most immigrants when they come to the USA tend to satisfy themselves with minimum wage jobs. The people that I am going to interview are totally different, they choose the success path. All this people now own their own business.
Furthermore, for my cover I have decided it to be very colorful because our culture is just colorful. I want the cover to represent the writer and since my culture is tropical it has to have a lot of color. Lastly, I have contacted a teacher at school five to help me create my book. I decided to contact her because she wrote her own book called Cranes for Christian.

Favian

If there is one person that I really look up too, it would be my little brother Favian. Even though he is only 13 years old and has a lot in his plate. He still maintains A's for all his classes and is really involved in church. He is like a role model to me and helps me over achieve anything. As the oldest sister I feel like I have always have to push myself and don't have time to slack. I want my brother to be proud of me and hope that I am being a good role model to him. This year he got accepted to student government but he turned it down. I felt as though it was kind of my fault because I was not there to encourage him. Then he was eligible for Junior Honor Society and I made sure I motivated him to type his paper ,and I know that he will get accepted to Junior Honor Society. He might be only my little brother but at the same time he is like my student. I get to practice my teaching techniques on him.

The Montgomery Bus Boycott

Many know of the Montgomery Bus boycott when Rosa Parks was not allowed to sit in front of the bus. In addition, that was the day when the blacks of Montgomery, Alabama, decided that they would boycott the city buses until they could sit anywhere they wanted, instead of being relegated to the back when a white boarded.

Moving along, when in history class we were talking about the boycott, My history teacher told us that none of the class could be able to walk for many miles. While she was stating this, I was thinking to myself that I could do it.

Seconds later Mr. Mark Anthony walked inside the room and said in front of the whole classroom that I if I was in that time period, I would be able to make a difference and walk for many miles. He embarrassed me in front of the room but in away I truly felt happy that he believed in me that if something like this happen in 2009, I would be able to make a difference and walk many miles without using transportation. In a way I know that anything I want in life can come true. All I need is a lot of determination and passion to make a difference.

Project

Growing up was very difficult probably because my parents were not able to help me through my school work. At the same time, I felt bad for them because they did not have the opportunity to get an education, and they could not help me in my school work. Everywhere we went I had to be a translator for them; instead of them helping me, I was helping them.
Furthermore, everywhere I went to help my parents, I saw many other Hispanics that lacked education and their children suffered from it.
I always wanted to better myself at everything I did. Realizing that I was the key to my own success (and others), I mounted a burden that included helping others who did not have an opportunity to receive an education. I wanted to be the opportunity of education that anyone could take advantage of.
In order to accomplish this goal I, am going to enroll in college and receive my master’s degree in education. Also, I would like to start a night program where I can help any minorities to learn English and persuade them to enroll in college. During, this course of the year I would like to start a journal and investigate what motivates minority to do their best. I will also, gather stories of many people who had started from nothing and the end result of them was that they climbed the corporate ladder. Lastly, making them believe that they are the key to their dreams. No matter the methodology or ideology I choose to employ, the pinnacle of my quest will be having a positive influence on someone’s life, to be a catalyst of success.

Senior Project

I often ask myself if this is how I imagine Senior Project. For the most part it has been exactly how I pictured it. It has been fun, exciting and the best part is that I get to observe someone in the profession I one day want to become. I always try to take in everything I learn from Senior Project and use it to better myself. This class overall has helped me improve in so many ways. In addition,  it has helped me value more educators. Overall,many of this teachers do a lot for their students. I want to one day resemble this wonderful teachers but most importantly impact the life of my future students.  In the future, I know this class will open many doors and offer great opportunities. It's about time Lindenwold did something good that will benefit students in life. For the future Juniors my advice is to take this class because it's just a wonderful experience and  you won't have any regrets about it.

"Staying In School"

When I look back when I first started school I was only four years old. I can remember how pre- school and kindergarden where the best years of school but then when I entered fifth grade things changed. School wasn't as fun because we were now doing hard challenging work,but now that I am a Senior I have realized that since my profecioion is to become a teaher. I will always maintain myself in school, waking up every day early in the morning.

In addition, I will feel what teachers go through every day. Also, I will have many important responsibilities around the school. Until, I retire I will make the best of my profecion and help change lives one by one.

"Bible Club Posters"

On Monday,March 23 I received the posters I have been waiting for a week. Before I had some ugly posters hanging on the wall for the bible club. Now with the help of Nate who is awesome at photo shop, he helped me come up with better improved posters. All this was possible with the help of Solid Rock Baptist Church which is our sponsor. Another goal for this year that I have is to get shirts for the club. Yesterday, Pastor Charlie informed the club we are getting our shirts next Monday. Getting t-shirts for the club has been one of my biggest goals for 2009. I am just happy on how the Lord has blessed the club and how things are going.
The Bible Club meets every Monday after-school in D201

Sra.Montanez

Yesterday, I had the honor to meet with Sra. Montanez. She is my second sponsor and a teacher at school four. Before meeting her, I felt very scared about her reactions towards me. As soon as I met her I just felt a good connections. She is a very elegant, fun and exciting to be with. Furthermore, before she entered her first classroom she told me how elementary students don't know how to speak Spanish yet in that level but opens their mind to a different world. Spanish in elementary is just to explore it and exposure them to the Language.

Our first day started with teaching kindergarten students numbers. She began by playing a video which the students could sing along the numbers. Then she read them a book where the students had to count the ducklings. The name of the book was "Donde Stan Mis Patitos". The children had a blast trying to count the ducklings and figuring out which one was missing.

What I realized about them is that to teach them and maintain them occupied the teacher has to have a lot of energy. If you stop even for a second they go crazy or start whining. In addition, they love to hear compliments from their teachers. Words like "good job" or your doing "fabulous" always means the world to them.

Finally, our day ended with first graders, they where a different type of crowd. This students already where in a different stage of Spanish. This students already knew how to count up to twenty. For this classroom she played the video again, but at a different level which was harder.

Then they worked on a worksheet together and Sra. Montanez called on different students to help her with the worksheet. The day ended with the students breaking up into four teams and competing on who could match more numbers in the computer. I believe that was the best part of their day. I can't wait to see them next Thursday.

"Second Sponsor"

Since the begging of last month I have tried to contact a Spanish teacher in school four.I talked to my mentor and I found out that her supervisor is the same as the teacher I had tried to contact. I knew that if I had a meeting with Mrs.Cavalo which is her supervisor, I would definitely grab her attention and be able to observe her classroom.Yesterday, Mrs. Cavalo gave me the exiting news that I could go and meet with Sandra Montanez and arrange a day where I can come and observe her classroom.
At the end of this journey I want to compare christian teaching vs public teaching.

History Presantation

This week for history, we have to present a power point on Kennedy's early years. I had to focus on the involvement of Kennedy in NASA and the Bay of Pigs. It's really hard to plan a lesson,But most importantly keep the students focus on the topic.I really give props to teachers when they plan their lessons. From my point of view it looks really easy but it's not. Moving on the most fun part about this project is that it allows me to practice speaking in front of a classroom. One of my biggest weakness is speaking in front of a big crowd. Mr. Abrams earlier in the year said that people would rather die than speaking out loud,that is definitely me.

"I hate her"

Last week my freshman told me how she hates our freshman teacher. She was showing no respect for the teacher. The big question that came across my head is,what type of discipline do her parents give her? Also does she get any love from her parents? I believe sometimes parents expect the school to be the parents and discipline their children.
I know for a fact that many parents in Lindenwold High School think that way. The school needs to set up mandatory meetings with the parents. The school already has open house, but only those parents who's children are getting good grades arrive.
Basically parents that show care and respect will have children who echo those qualities.
This goes for any teacher out there. If one is having problem with a student who seems unmotivated or apathetic, the parents need to be contacted, and perhaps need assistance themselves.

Gas Laws

Last week for physics we picked a topic on which we would have to give a 10 minute presentation. I decided to do my lesson on Gas Laws, of course if was really boring doing research for Charles, Ideal and Boyle's law. I wonder sometimes what was going on Robert Boyle and Jacques Charles mind. They probably had a lot of time in their plate. I recently read a qoute that stated ""All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us."-J.R.R. Tolkien

These scientist used their time usefully and had a great impacted on society.

Furthermore, the most fun part about this project was that I got to speak infront of the classroom. I felt this was a wonderful practice for the future, especially for my final test presentation in Senior Project.

If you want to know more about Gas Laws visit the website below.

http://www.shodor.org/UNChem/advanced/gas/

Giving thanks

I have realized that many people especially teenagers never really take the time to thank people around them. I'm talking about how we've lost sight of the power of common courtesy. The power of a simple thank you.For example, thanking teachers, principals, guardians,pastors,or mentors. From our side we probably don't know how much hard work and dedication they put to their job. I believe that if we wrote them a letter on how much we appreciate their hard work, or simply acknowledge them by telling them thank you. I know that would mean the world for them and make their day, but most importantly know that what they are doing is not in vain.

This week I have decided to appreciate the people that are around me by writing them a letter or simply saying thanks. I know that if I was a teacher and never got feedback from my students I would feel that as a teacher I was doing a bad job.

Go thank someone today! You'll feel good about it, and even better, they'll feel great about you.

Inspirational Quote

"The day someone quits school he is condemning himself to a future of poverty"Jaime Escalate


When I read this quote I think to myself that when a person stops caring for education their future is destine to having to live paycheck by paycheck. I understand that not everyone has the opportunity to get an education, but what about those that do. Why do they give up on school?

They let an amazing chance go down the drain. In addition some of this reasons why many students are dropping out of school is just stupid. As the years go by many students are getting lazier. From drugs to teen pregnancy are some of the reasons why teens keep dropping out. Teenagers need to stop trying to fit in the crowd because being cool has it's prize. If teenagers just put more effort into work all things would come easy to them. All we need is the courage and passion.

Oprah Winfrey

In January 2, 2007 Oprah Winfrey opened a school for disadvantaged girls, she also fulfilled her promised to Nelson Mandela. The 40 million school will help more than 152 girls. What is more touching is that this school helps families affected by AIDS; an estimated 5.5 million of South Africa's 48 million people are living with HIV, which hits women disproportionately hard. "Winfrey academy received 3,500 applications from across the country. A total of 152 girls ages 11 and 12 were accepted. To qualify, they had to show both academic and leadership potential and have a household income of no more than $787 a month. Plans call for the academy eventually to accommodate 450 girls." Moving on she plans for the future to open a school for boys and girls. My only advice for Oprah would be that for future reference she should not have children apply for her school but rather let as many as kids that want to get an education be welcome. She has so much power over people by her kidness that she should pursuide more famous artist to help her create more schools for children.

Research Paper

This year for Senior Project, our research paper is coming up very soon. Last week, I started researching for my thesis which is that two languages better equips students for their future. After reading many articles, I found many interesting facts about knowing two languages. For example, when a person knows more than one language, they are better at taking cognitive, standardized assessments of knowledge.

Another important aspect about knowing two languages is how it effects how one sees the world. This has been substantiated in recent studies. For example, the word bridge in spanish is masculine, and femine in German.
Furthermore, in a research by "Tel Aviv", bilinguality protects children's brain against the effects of ageing. Other good effects of knowing two languages are strengthening of the brain, new perspectives and angles of thought, and new realms of intellect.

" A Hero to English"

After viewing Stand and Deliver and The Freedom Writers I have discovered that there is one teacher in Lindenwold High School that I can relate as being like the teachers in the Stand and Deliver and the Freedom Writers. His name is Larry Abrams; he is an extraordinary English teacher at Lindenwold High school. Many may not know him, but this teacher makes me want to read the courier post every chance I can, especially Saturday morning.
I might never meet Jaime Escalante from Stand and Deliver, but I have the amazing chance to have Mr. Abrams as a teacher. Everyday I can't wait to get to 8th period and learn something new from him.I can go on and on writing about him on how he has used literature to make me a better student. From appreciating Shakespeare and making connections, every time he grades a paper I wait impatiently just so I can read his comments. His comments always mean the world to me, and from my errors, I always try to better them. One thing I really have to work on is on making commas my friends. I really appreciate everything Mr. Abrams does for his students and the school. Mrs. Bubb should be very lucky to have an English teacher like him in her department.
Every year the school chooses a teacher of the year, but I believe if the students picked the teacher it would be more valuable. So if I had the chance to pick someone for teacher of the year it would definitely be Mr. Abrams. I really admire him and hope that one day I can reflect on his teaching.

"The Price Of Going To Class"

"One morning last November, 17-year-old Shamsia Husseini and her sister were walking through the muddy streets of Kandahar, in southern Afghanistan, to the local girls school. A man pulled alongside them on a motorcycle and posed what seemed like an ordinary question: "Are you going to school?"
Then the man sprayed Shamsia's face with what appeared to be battery acid."(New York Times)

This whole story brings sadness to my heart. How can there be cruel men out there that feel that it's okay to do this? In my opinion I feel that girls having education threatens them. They know that if they put a pencil and a book in front of us women, we can do many things, but most importantly be independent. With education we can go far and accomplish many things. If given the chance I know these girls have the potential to become teachers, doctors or lawyers. I am very happy that their parents are not letting them give up on school, but are persuading them on not giving up on school. My personal advice for them is to keep working hard, and that this obstacle that they face in such adversity.

"Stand and Deliver"

Another great movie that I enjoy watching, and that is very inspiring is Stand and Deliver. Mr.Jaime Escalante is a mathematics teacher in a school in a Hispanic neighbourhood. Convinced that his students have potential, he adopts unconventional teaching methods to try and turn gang members and hopeless adolescents into some of the country's top algebra and calculus students.
What brings more inspiration to me about this story is how the students were bold and determined to prove The Educational Testing Service that their testing scores where right, and that they did not cheat.

This movie also brings concerns to me because maybe this school may not be teaching students to their pontential. We need to get rid of those incommensurate teachers, and get more teachers who care about students, and want to get the best out of every student.

Lastly, what I love about this teacher is that he is able to transform even the most troublesome teens into dedicated students who are ready to learn. I believe that if teachers in Lindenwold get more passion and determination, they can change the lives of many students. This teacher did it. Why can't others do the same as he?!

Freedom Writers

One movie that I really enjoy watching is The Freedom Writers, just the passion and inspiration a teacher can have in a couple of students is incredible. What makes this teacher really special, is that she is not there for the salary, but to make the students motivate themselves. She is always going the extra mile in helping the students learn in different ways. In addition, even when everyone turned their back on her, she kept fighting to achieve her goal and making the students understand that if they put all their effort and dedication they can accomplish anything they wanted in life. It's amazing how she made education fun and at the same time use their writing to change themselves and the whole world around them. All I hope is that at the end I can reflect on her motivation,determination and passion.

"A hero to education"

Colombian singer Shakira inaugurates school in Barranquilla

Yesterday, I read an article on how Shakira has established a school in Barranquilla, Colombia. This school will allow more than 5,000 children to have a better education.

Shakira has helped fund a school in Colombia for children displaced by guerrilla violence. Shakira said that her Bare Feet Foundation works to break "the myth that quality education is the privilege of the few". It amazes me how just one person can change the lives of many. Shakira also wants to grab the goverment's attention, and persuade them to help create better education programs.

She inspires me to become a better person, and work harder to help those that lack education. I might not build a school, but I hope that I can help under privileged children better their education.

http://colombiareports.com/colombian-news/culture/2785-shakira-inaugurates-barranquilla-school.html

Freshman Students

I can't believe how the third quarter has already begun, and my freshman are still whiners. For their midterm, they are supposed to choose a hometown hero in Lindenwold. I just can't believe that in order for them to make a powerpoint for their presentation, and interview their hometown hero, they need me there for everything. They're completely lazy. All I hear is " Tomasa can you help on this and that?" Some times I ask myself how are they going to make it through school, but then I step out of my anger, and try to understand them. In addition, I try to persuade them to motivate themselves, and realize that they are the key to their own success. I try to observe all of these obstacles that cross my path so that in the future I can use and apply it in my future inculcation of students.

Bible Club Meeting

Yesterday was our fifth meeting for the bible club. Overall, we had an awesome time, and had a total of 18 students attending the club. We received our bibles and binders where we are going to be writing our notes on lessons we learn. As the president of the club, I really felt happy about the outcome, and understand that the posters and activities that I do are not in vain. I am reaching out to students. Also, I am very gratified by all the help I am getting from Mr. Snyder by letting the Bible Club use his room, and Mrs. Clark for staying after school to supervise the club. The topic we are now doing is hope, and realizing that there is hope because we have God. So for anyone out there that has given up on hope, I encourage you to come to the Bible Club and listen to the gospel about hope. I know that anyone that comes will get a blessing from it.

superhero

If I could have any superpower, it would be speed. For some reason, I have always had a hard time getting on time to places. Last week on Wednesday, I arrived very late to the meeting for Senior Project. I thought to myself that when I become a teacher, I can't come to work at whatever time I want. If I do that, my future students are going to be in a classroom without a teacher. I have to take my job very seriously, and compromise for any future meetings I might have. Speed would definitely make my life easier as a whole.

What Power would you want?

"Riding the Bike of Life"

"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving". Albert Einstein

As I was in physics class, I came across this picture and the quote that Einstein articulated for it. It reminded me of my life. I feel as though I must constantly keep "moving", keep myself busy, interested, and almost uncomfortable in order to maintain the balance of my life. As long as I keep my daily regimen well-oiled, I can adapt to almost anything. I have the utmost confidence, and nothing can stop me. There is no time for laziness or distraction. There is only time for achievement.

"Self Improvement Book"

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
proverbs(31,11);

My self improvement book for this year was proverbs from the King James edition of The Bible. Proverbs is very inspirational and filled with wisdom. The chapter that I most enjoy reading is chapter 31 because it tells the story about a perfect women that I one day hope to become. Some qualities that I love about her is that she was very determined, dedicated, and loved everything she did for others. My favorite verse that goes with her story is "for her price is far above rubies." As a teacher I want to set an example to my students of good morals. As I looked up the definition for a virtuous woman, It meant having or showing virtue, especially moral excellence. I want to impact the lives of my students, and be continually selfless in my inculcation of them.

"New Year's Resolution"

While sitting down during the Sunday morning service, they introduced the theme of the year which is “Bold as a Lion.” At that moment I realized how as a Christian in the year 2008 I was not as bold as I would have liked to be. Despite the fact that many teenagers were texting on their phones or looking at the ceiling, I committed myself to follow the theme and set an example for them. This year in 2009 I want the Lord to use me. I want to be a confident, faithful, and a strong lion. In order for me to fulfill this I have to practice following the three resolutions below.
My first personal resolution demands me to read the bible and pray everyday. “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua 1; 8). As I read this scripture from the bible I know I need to stay in God’s book to have a better understanding on how to live for him and have a successful life.
In order to have a better relationship with God, I have to read The Bible and pray. It is proven that to read the whole bible it takes 72 hours to complete it, so I have decided to read two chapters everyday of the week. In addition, I will wake up 15 minutes earlier so I can have plenty of time to pray and bring my bible to school in case I have any free time to read it.
My second resolution is to be more faithful to soul winning. Our church goes soul winning every Thursday and Saturday and I need to be there instead of wasting my time doing nothing and being scared of what people might think of me. Going back to my theme of the year, I thought to myself that lions are not scared to do anything and I should not be scared either to knock on people’s doors and tell them who Jesus is and what he has done for me. I have to be bold as a lion. By doing this I can be a good leader to my family and encourage them to do the same. As the president of the bible club, I have to also show my peers that I am involved and care for the things about the Lord. Moving on, I have to step up to the plate and force myself that I have to give out more tracks to people, for example 20 a week or more. Many times I have felt intimated when people look scary and I think to myself “They probably won’t want to hear it”. Instead of thinking that way I have to go up to that scary looking person and tell them about Jesus and his plan of salvation.
My third resolution is to get more people to join the Bible Club (Young Ambassadors for Christ) and share the gospel with them. I believe many students in Lindenwold pass through many problems and don’t have anywhere to go. I want them to know that there is a God and he has everything under control. America in my opinion has forgotten about him, but I want to make a change and make a difference in Lindenwold High School. If God helped Moses cross the red sea and take his people to the promised land, I know he can help me too with my bible club. To make this resolution work, I have decided to extend our meetings to not just Mondays but also Thursdays. I also want to get shirts for the club and make other students know that we are representing the lord in LHS. In addition, I also have planned fun activities later on the year for the club as well as prepare someone else to take good care of the bible club next year. For this week coming up I have created posters and came up with the idea that we should have pizza and Pepsi for this Monday, I have faith that everything will go fine and many more students will come join us.
Overall, I am determine to be faithful to doing my three resolutions and be an ambassador for Christ and represent the lord here on earth. I have trust in myself that I am going to read the whole bible, give out more tracks than ever. So, Lindenwold watch out because this ambassador is not going to be scared to speak out for the Lord and prove to every one that life is good because God is good.