Sunday, May 1, 2011

Persuasive Speeches!!!

Overview:
Persuasive Speech preparation: Choose a topic that you are FOR or AGAINST and persuade your audience to believe your research. This may even cause them to change their own opinions! You will be graded on your research, attitude, enthusiasm, eye contact, delivery of speech, lack of filler words, stance, body language, etc.

1. 2 sources (minimum.) Document sources on your notecards. According to ......... Found online at ...........
2. 2 minutes (minimum)
3. Evidence/Visual. (Audio, picture, items)

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Tuesday, April 12th

Conflict 101

  • A conflict is more than just a disagreement. It is a situation in which one or both parties perceive a threat (whether or not the threat is real).
  • Conflicts continue to fester when ignored. Because conflicts involve perceived threats to our well-being and survival, they stay with us until we face and resolve them.
  • We respond to conflicts based on our perceptions of the situation, not necessarily to an objective review of the facts. Our perceptions are influenced by our life experiences, culture, values, and beliefs.
  • Conflicts trigger strong emotions. If you aren’t comfortable with your emotions or able to manage them in times of stress, you won’t be able to resolve conflict successfully.
  • Conflicts are an opportunity for growth. When you’re able to resolve conflict in a relationship, it builds trust. You can feel secure, knowing your relationship can survive challenges and disagreements.

Conflict may feel more threatening to you than it really is

Do you fear conflict or avoid it at all costs? If your perception of conflict comes from frightening or painful memories from previous unhealthy relationships or your early childhood, you may expect all present-day disagreements to end badly. You may view conflict in relationships as demoralizing, humiliating, dangerous, and something to fear. If your early life experiences also left you feeling out of control and powerless, conflict may even be traumatizing for you.
If you view conflict as dangerous, it tends to become a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you go into a conflict situation already feeling extremely threatened, it’s tough to deal with the problem at hand in a healthy way. Instead, you are more likely to shut down or blow up in anger.
Healthy and unhealthy ways of managing and resolving conflict
Unhealthy responses to conflict: Healthy responses to conflict
  • An inability to recognize and respond to the things that matter to the other person
  • Explosive, angry, hurtful, and resentful reactions
  • The withdrawal of love, resulting in rejection, isolation, shaming, and fear of abandonment
  • An inability to compromise or see the other person’s side.
  • The fear and avoidance of conflict; the expectation of bad outcomes
  • The capacity to recognize and respond to the things that matter to the other person
  • Calm, non-defensive, and respectful reactions
  • A readiness to forgive and forget, and to move past the conflict without holding resentments or anger
  • The ability to seek compromise and avoid punishing
  • A belief that facing conflict head is the best thing for both sides

Successful conflict resolution depends on your ability to regulate stress and your emotions

Conflict triggers strong emotions and can lead to hurt feelings, disappointment, and discomfort. When handled in an unhealthy manner, it can cause irreparable rifts, resentments, and break-ups. But when conflict is resolved in a healthy way, it increases our understanding of one another, builds trust, and strengthens our relationship bonds.
If you are out of touch with your feelings or so stressed that you can only pay attention to a limited number of emotions, you won’t be able to understand your own needs. If you don’t understand your needs, you will have a hard time communicating with others and staying in touch with what is really troubling you. For example, couples often argue about petty differences—the way she hangs the towels, the way he parts his hair—rather than what is really bothering them.

The ability to successfully resolve conflict depends on your ability to:

  • Manage stress quickly while remaining alert and calm. By staying calm, you can accurately read and interpret verbal and nonverbal communication.
  • Control your emotions and behavior. When you’re in control of your emotions, you can communicate your needs without threatening, frightening, or punishing others.
  • Pay attention to the feelings being expressed as well as the spoken words of others.
  • Be aware of and respectful of differences. By avoiding disrespectful words and actions, you can resolve the problem faster.

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Monday, April 11th




Conflict Management Styles Quiz
Source:  Reginald (Reg) Adkins, PhD,  Elemental Truths
http://elementaltruths.blogspot.com/2006/11/conflict-management-quiz.html

We each have our own way of dealing with conflict.  The techniques we use are based on many variables such a
our basic underlying temperament, our personality, our environment and where we are in our professional
career.  However, by and large there are five major styles of conflict management techniques in our tool box.  In
order to address conflict we draw from a collaborating, competing, avoiding, harmonizing or compromising
style of management.  None of these strategies is superior in and of itself.  How effective they are depends on
the context in which they are used.

Each statement below provides a strategy for dealing with a conflict.  Rate each statement on a scale of 1 to 4
indicating how likely you are to use this strategy.

1 = Rarely  2 = Sometimes  3 = Often  4 = Always

Be sure to answer the questions indicating how you would behave rather than how you think you should
behave.

  1.  I explore issues with others so as to find solutions that meet everyone’s needs.  _______

  2.  I try to negotiate and adopt a give-and-take approach to problem situations.   _______

  3.  I try to meet the expectations of others.        _______

  4.  I would argue my case and insist on the merits of my point of view.    _______

  5.  When there is a disagreement, I gather as much information as I can and keep the  
       lines of communication open.         _______

6. When I find myself in an argument, I usually say very little and try to leave as soon
as possible.           _______

7. I try to see conflicts from both sides.  What do I need?  What does the other person
Need?  What are the issues involved?        _______

  8.  I prefer to compromise when solving problems and just move on.    _______

  9.  I find conflicts challenging and exhilarating; I enjoy the battle of wits that usually follows. _______

10.  Being at odds with other people makes me feel uncomfortable and anxious.   _______

11.  I try to accommodate the wishes of my friends and family.     _______

12.  I can figure out what needs to be done and I am usually right.     _______

13.  To break deadlocks, I would meet people halfway.      _______

14.  I may not get what I want but it’s a small price to pay for keeping the peace.   _______

15.  I avoid hard feelings by keeping my disagreements with others to myself.   _______

How to score the Conflict Management Quiz:

As stated, the 15 statements correspond to the five conflict resolution styles.  To find your most preferred style,
total the points in the respective categories.  The one with the highest score indicates your most commonly used
strategy.  The one with the lowest score indicates your least preferred strategy.  However, if you are a leader
who must deal with conflict on a regular basis, you may find your style to be a blend of styles.

Style    Corresponding Statements:      Total:
Collaborating:    1, 5, 7     _______

Competing:    4, 9, 12    _______

Avoiding:    6, 10, 15    _______

Harmonizing:    3, 11, 14    _______

Compromising:   2, 8, 13    _______


Brief Descriptions of the Five Conflict Management Styles

Collaborating Style:  Problems are solved in ways in which an optimum result is provided for all involved.
Both sides get what they want and negative feelings are minimized.
Pros: Creates mutual trust; maintains positive relationships; builds commitments.
Cons: Time consuming; energy consuming.

Competing Style:  Authoritarian approach.
Pros: Goal oriented; quick.
Cons: May breed hostility.

Avoiding Style:  The non-confrontational approach.
Pros: Does not escalate conflict; postpones difficulty.
Cons: Unaddressed problems; unresolved problems.

Harmonizing Style:  Giving in to maintain relationships.
Pros: Minimizes injury when we are outmatched; relationships are maintained.
Cons: Breeds resentment; exploits the weak.

Compromising Style:  The middle ground approach.
Pros: Useful in complex issues without simple solutions; all parties are equal in power.
Cons: No one is ever really satisfied; less than optimal solutions get implemented.






Conflict is a normal and necessary part of healthy relationships. After all, two people can’t be expected to agree on everything at all times. Therefore, learning how to deal with conflict—rather than avoiding it—is crucial.
When conflict is mismanaged, it can harm the relationship. But when handled in a respectful and positive way, conflict provides an opportunity for growth, ultimately strengthening the bond between two people. By learning the skills you need for successful conflict resolution, you can face disagreements with confidence and keep your personal and professional relationships strong and growing.
Understanding conflict in relationships Conflict arises from differences. It occurs whenever people disagree over their values, motivations, perceptions, ideas, or desires. Sometimes these differences look trivial, but when a conflict triggers strong feelings, a deep personal need is at the core of the problem¾a need to feel safe and secure, a need to feel respected and valued, or a need for greater closeness and intimacy.

Conflicts arise from differing needs

Everyone needs to feel understood, nurtured, and supported, but the ways in which these needs are met vary widely. Differing needs for feeling comfortable and safe create some of the most severe challenges in our personal and professional relationships.
Think about the conflicting need for safety and continuity versus the need to explore and take risks. You frequently see this conflict between toddlers and their parents. The child’s need is to explore, so the street or the cliff meets a need. But the parents’ need is to protect the child’s safety, so limiting exploration becomes a bone of contention between them.
It is important to acknowledge that both parties’ needs play important roles in the long-term success of most relationships, and each deserves respect and consideration. In personal relationships, a lack of understanding about differing needs can result in distance, arguments, and break-ups. In workplace conflicts, differing needs are often at the heart of bitter disputes. When you can recognize the legitimacy of conflicting needs and become willing to examine them in an environment of compassionate understanding, it opens pathways to creative problem solving, team building, and improved relationships.

Conflict 101

  • A conflict is more than just a disagreement. It is a situation in which one or both parties perceive a threat (whether or not the threat is real).
  • Conflicts continue to fester when ignored. Because conflicts involve perceived threats to our well-being and survival, they stay with us until we face and resolve them.
  • We respond to conflicts based on our perceptions of the situation, not necessarily to an objective review of the facts. Our perceptions are influenced by our life experiences, culture, values, and beliefs.
  • Conflicts trigger strong emotions. If you aren’t comfortable with your emotions or able to manage them in times of stress, you won’t be able to resolve conflict successfully.
  • Conflicts are an opportunity for growth. When you’re able to resolve conflict in a relationship, it builds trust. You can feel secure, knowing your relationship can survive challenges and disagreements.

Conflict may feel more threatening to you than it really is

Do you fear conflict or avoid it at all costs? If your perception of conflict comes from frightening or painful memories from previous unhealthy relationships or your early childhood, you may expect all present-day disagreements to end badly. You may view conflict in relationships as demoralizing, humiliating, dangerous, and something to fear. If your early life experiences also left you feeling out of control and powerless, conflict may even be traumatizing for you.
If you view conflict as dangerous, it tends to become a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you go into a conflict situation already feeling extremely threatened, it’s tough to deal with the problem at hand in a healthy way. Instead, you are more likely to shut down or blow up in anger.
Healthy and unhealthy ways of managing and resolving conflict
Unhealthy responses to conflict: Healthy responses to conflict
  • An inability to recognize and respond to the things that matter to the other person
  • Explosive, angry, hurtful, and resentful reactions
  • The withdrawal of love, resulting in rejection, isolation, shaming, and fear of abandonment
  • An inability to compromise or see the other person’s side.
  • The fear and avoidance of conflict; the expectation of bad outcomes
  • The capacity to recognize and respond to the things that matter to the other person
  • Calm, non-defensive, and respectful reactions
  • A readiness to forgive and forget, and to move past the conflict without holding resentments or anger
  • The ability to seek compromise and avoid punishing
  • A belief that facing conflict head is the best thing for both sides

Successful conflict resolution depends on your ability to regulate stress and your emotions

Conflict triggers strong emotions and can lead to hurt feelings, disappointment, and discomfort. When handled in an unhealthy manner, it can cause irreparable rifts, resentments, and break-ups. But when conflict is resolved in a healthy way, it increases our understanding of one another, builds trust, and strengthens our relationship bonds.
If you are out of touch with your feelings or so stressed that you can only pay attention to a limited number of emotions, you won’t be able to understand your own needs. If you don’t understand your needs, you will have a hard time communicating with others and staying in touch with what is really troubling you. For example, couples often argue about petty differences—the way she hangs the towels, the way he parts his hair—rather than what is really bothering them.

The ability to successfully resolve conflict depends on your ability to:

  • Manage stress quickly while remaining alert and calm. By staying calm, you can accurately read and interpret verbal and nonverbal communication.
  • Control your emotions and behavior. When you’re in control of your emotions, you can communicate your needs without threatening, frightening, or punishing others.
  • Pay attention to the feelings being expressed as well as the spoken words of others.
  • Be aware of and respectful of differences. By avoiding disrespectful words and actions, you can resolve the problem faster.
 *Helpguide.org

Monday: Can you untangle yourselves? Chapter 11, p. 344. Group Conflict Scenarios

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Thursday

Radiation levels in seawater off Japan plant spike to all-time highs

By the CNN Wire Staff
March 31, 2011 9:02 a.m. EDT
Officials say there is no clear sense of what's causing the radiation spike or how to stop it.
Officials say there is no clear sense of what's causing the radiation spike or how to stop it.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
  • A utility official says the contamination came from a leak or ground seepage
  • A 140-member U.S. military team of radiation specialists is set to arrive
  • A Japanese minister says those near the plant may get free medical check-ups
  • Iodine-131 levels in sea are 4,385 times above normal, cesium-137 is 527 times above
Tokyo (CNN) -- The levels of radiation in ocean waters off Japan's embattled Fukushima Daiichi plant continue to skyrocket, the nation's nuclear safety agency said Thursday, with no clear sense of what's causing the spike or how to stop it.
The amount of the radioactive iodine-131 isotope in the samples, taken Wednesday some 330 meters (361 yards) into the Pacific Ocean, has surged to 4,385 times above the regulatory limit.
This tops the previous day's reading of 3,355 times above the standard -- and an exponential spike over the 104-times increase measured just last Friday.





Interview Process Continued.



ACTION: During the Interview

This part of the interview process is the actual face-to-face interview. There are many things to consider once you get to the place where the interview will be conducted. It may seem confusing at first, but if you break everything down into steps it becomes much easier. This section of the interviewing guide will consider the steps of (1) arriving on time, (2) introducing yourself, (3) conversing with the interviewer, (4) responding to questions, and (5) interviewing do's and don'ts. The final focus of this section is a discussion of the main idea behind the whole interview process, selling yourself to the company that you would like to work for.

Arriving on Time: The first time factor you must consider is the time you are to arrive at the interview. It is important to show up on time. Five to ten minutes early is appropriate, any more than that and you seem too eager and may be interrupting what the interviewer was doing before your appointment. Besides, arriving too early may be awkward and will give you an opportunity to get nervous. Arriving late is completely unacceptable. If you can not make it to the interview on time you must call and provide a good reason for the delay (be prepared for the possibility of having to reschedule the interview). The second time factor you want consider regards the best use of time. The interviewer has many things to accomplish in addition to your interview. Think about the answers you are giving, give precise and short answers. Try to avoid going into detail unless it is requested. The key is to highlight the good things and show the interviewer why it would be a good idea for the company to hire you.

Introducing Yourself: The first thing the interviewer learns about you, you teach him or her by how you introduce yourself. Be very assured and self-confident when entering the room. Offer a handshake and be sure that it is firm and demonstrates confidence. An example of how to begin would be " Hello, my name is George Jones I am here for my interview." When the introductions are made be sure to remember the name of the person interviewing you. The interview will progress on better terms if you are able to respond using the name of the person you are speaking with. After the introductions are made there should be a seat offered to you. Do not assume that there is a particular place for you, wait until the interviewer motions to where he or she would like to have you sit. Once you are seated and introductions are over the interview is ready to begin. Also, keep in mind that everyone you meet at the organization is important and might have input as to the decision to hire you. It is not unlikely for an interviewer or manager to ask the receptionist or counter person for his or her impressions of you.

The Conversation Between You and the Interviewer: The biggest thing to remember when you are talking to the interviewer is that enthusiasm makes the difference. An example of an enthusiastic response would be, " I would welcome the opportunity to prove myself at that task." When you are speaking be sure that your voice has force and assurance. The surer you are about yourself, the more the interviewer becomes confident that you are capable of doing the job. Treating the interviewer with respect is also very important. You can demonstrate this respect by listening and responding with interest. Such behavior allows you to establish rapport with the interviewer. Rapport (the French word for relationship) is a type of understanding or easy and friendly pattern of interaction between individuals. An example would be the type of conversations you have with really good friends. You are interested in what they are saying, they are listening to you and the conversation flows with little interruption or problems. You have established a rapport with this person that allows you to speak comfortably. This is what you want to establish with your interviewer.

Responding to Questions: When answering questions asked by the interviewer there are four things to keep in mind: listen carefully, make your answers specific and organized, frame the answers positively while emphasizing your strengths, and discuss your weaknesses honestly. First, listening carefully is important because you want to make sure you hear the question correctly. It would be very embarrassing if you answered a question inappropriately because you were only listening to how it was phrased. Second, make your answers specific and organized. Think about the question and then consider your answer before you speak it. Organize your thoughts, so if the question is, "What were your main duties at your last job?" you can concentrate on the top duties and avoid unneeded information. The more you tell the interviewer the bigger the risk you run that they might forget something you said. If you stick to only the most important information, it won't get lost among the unimportant facts. Third, when answering questions form your answers positively. An example of this would be replacing " I work hard," with " I am very determined." Although you should be positive, this does not mean you should be dishonest. This leads to the fourth and final point, honesty enhances your credibility. More likely than not you will be asked what you believe is your greatest weakness. Answering this questions insincerely (for example, "I am a workaholic"), will be noticed by the interviewer and will reflect poorly on you. You can discuss your weaknesses and then tell the interviewer what you have learned from them and how you intend to improve upon them. You can turn a weakness into a positive learning experience.

Interviewing Do's and Don'ts: The things you will want to avoid when you are interviewing are all of the bad habits you have while speaking, or when you are nervous. Examples of things to consider are biting your nails, twisting your hair, moving around continuously in your chair, tapping you hand or a pen, and anything else that would be considered fidgeting. Never make assumptions as to what the interviewer is trying to say or ask. If you are uncertain, it is better to ask the interviewer to repeat the question. Other "don'ts" include lying or exaggerating (which might come back to haunt you) and speaking poorly about a former employer. If you "bad-mouth" a former employer, the interviewer will picture you doing the same thing to his or her company.

There are a number of important "do's" involved in interviewing. Some ideas to try to do while interviewing: make eye contact with the interviewer. There is a significant impact made through good eye contact. This helps to show honesty as well as letting the interviewer know you are truly interested in what they are saying. Watch the Interviewer's body language. Being able to read body language will help you tell what point you are at in the interview. Folded arms, yawning, picking up papers, or concentrating on something else are signs that the interview has lasted too long, or that the answer you are giving is too long and vague. React quickly and positively to any negative signs. An easy way to stop a long answer is to pause briefly and then sum up you thoughts in one sentence. If you have a question or a doubt: ask a question to clarify. This will help you avoid answering inappropriately. The final thing to remember when interviewing is SMILE. Smiles are contagious and will help ease any tension or nervousness associated with the interview.



Complete Cover Letter & Career Personality Quiz

Monday, March 28, 2011

Tuesday, March 29th

Tuesday: Interview Process.
How to prepare for job interview: Handshake, attire
Resume (p. 268)

Tuesday & Wed.: Cover Letter p. 304

Thursday:Thank you letter p. 294.  Career personality test

Friday: Prepare interview questions for each other, tape interviews using computers, cameras.

Personal Goals: Personal goals are when you decide what type of job you are looking for. Are you looking for a job that allows you to move around, a job that asks you to do outside work? Would you like a job that offers a variety of hours, or are you looking for a set schedule? Is the type of job you want one that you work with the public, or would you prefer to deal with machines and paperwork? The answers to these questions are important because they will help guide you in what companies you would like to contact about possible job openings.

Knowledge about the Company: The second area that you can prepare yourself in is knowledge about the company itself. Basic information is the key. Does the company fit the description you developed by answering your personal goals questions above? You will also want to look at the location of the company. Is the company close enough for your current transportation situation? Thinking of these questions and then giving the answers considerable thought will help you prepare for when it is time to go to the interview. There are a number of ways that you can find information about a company. You might go to your public library, you can search on the Internet, or you can even talk to some current employees.

What to ask the Interviewer: At some point during the interview you will be asked if you have any questions - count on it. Be prepared to ask thoughtful and useful questions. Asking well thought-out questions will make you look good in the eyes of the person who is conducting the interview. Avoid asking me-centered questions regarding items such as salary and vacation time. These indicate that you might only be interested in money and not in making a contribution to the organization. On the other hand, good ideas for questions are: "What would my job duties include?" , "Is there a chance for promotions?" "What type of things would I be in charge of?" and many other related questions.

Dressing Properly: You can also prepare for the job interview by making sure you are dressed properly. Dressing properly means being professional. Personal cleanliness and grooming are also related to dressing properly. This includes bathing, using deodorant, brushing your teeth, and making sure your clothes are ironed, or have few wrinkles. Dressing properly means having your hair brushed and styled neatly. Perfume and cologne can be worn in small amounts, but should be avoided if at all possible. Also, be careful about the type of jewelry you wear - this makes a statement about who you are. You might want to ask the person who calls you for the interview what he or she would like for you to wear.

Practice Answering Questions: It is the job of the interviewer to find out as much job-relevant information about you as possible. You will be asked a lot of questions. Some of these questions will be easy to answer but others might be very difficult. Questions such as, "Why did you leave your last job?" might be difficult to answer. Other questions, such as, "Are you a thinker or action taker?" may be confusing and require forethought to answer. And of course, you need to be prepared to give a good answer to the question, "Why do you want to work here?" The appendix to this guide contains a list of the most commonly asked questions in job interviews. Please examine the list and prepare answers for these questions just in case you are asked.

Preparing for the interview is an important first step. The degree to which this preparation will affect the overall success of the interview should not be taken lightly. After identifying your goals, researching the company, thinking of questions you may want to ask, considering the type of clothing to wear, and practicing answers to questions, you are ready to go to the place where the interview will be.
 

Monday, March 28th

1. Plexars!
2. Justin Bieber's, Cat in the Hat!
3. Children's Manners Book (criss cross apple sauce!)

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

What's going on in class!

Missing Chapter 3 Notes

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Informative Speech/How To Speech






Begin brainstorming/researching your informative speech. You may choose any school appropriate topic. You are INFORMING us about a person, place, or thing.You may also choose to do a HOW TO speech. You can video (cooking show) or demonstrate in class how to cook something. You will still have all of the following listed below. Ex., If you choose to show us how to make something, you need the history of it, etc.

3 paragraphs.

Intro: Attention Getter, thoughts, thesis sentence (sums up your entire speech.)
Body: Interesting info. about your topic.
Conclusion: Touch on your attention getter again, end with memorable statements!
Visual: Picture, video, song, show and tell, etc.

1. 2 minute speech. Minimum!!!!!!!!!
2. Note cards ONLY-You may type up your speech and glue to this your notecard, or you may use bullet points, etc.
3. Cite your sources (you must say where you get your info. from. You HAVE to give the person credit if you use someone's words or ideas in your speech.)
4. Visual

Monday: Brainstorm
Tuesday: TAKS
Wednesday: Research
Thursday: Research/Begin putting speech together
Friday: Put speech together, time speech, etc. 
Monday: Presentations!

Topic Ideas:
People-athletes, celebrities, presidents, serial murderers, country leaders, Sara Palin, etc.
Places- 7 wonders of the world, Disney World, History of Rockwall, Alaska
Things- History of Dr. Pepper, Chocolate, Kolache, war, Marines, Miss Me Jeans, MAC makeup etc.
What are we looking for in a speaker?
Questions to students:
1. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who had a week to prepare, but did NOT make the 2 minute mark? Yes or No? Why?

2. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who made up info. or gave their own opinions regarding a topic in order to make the 2 min. mark? Yes or No? Why?

3. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who had a week to prepare, but chose NOT to present? Yes or No? Why?

4. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who did not have a visual? Yes or No?

5. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who was told Notecards ONLY, but didn't have them? Yes or No? Why?

6. Do you feel it's fair for me to give credit to someone who may have baked, brought in chinese, bought donuts, provided cokes, showed some beautiful pics of the Statue of Liberty, compared to someone drawing their visual on a sheet of notebook paper?

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Chapter 5 Nonverbal



Wordless Acting
Stack the Deck
Copy Cat

Monday, February 21, 2011

Tuesday, Feb. 22

  .

Operation Education: Future teachers preparing for troubled job market

by JIM DOUGLAS
Bio | Email
WFAA
Posted on February 21, 2011 at 5:34 PM

It is estimated 100,000 thousand public education jobs could be lost in Texas. That is just the start. Add that to the thousands of students that have spent the past four years in college hoping to become teachers.
Finding a classroom is going to be hard and it is only getting harder. Dozens of districts have decided not to travel to recruit new students. For the first time, that decision has forced Texas Christian University to not host its annual Statewide Career Day.
TCU students who want to teach elementary school are very aware of what has happened to the job market for elementary teachers.
Normally districts from around the state come to TCU once a year to interview future teachers.
This year, they are not coming.
"The statewide got canceled," said dale Young, TCU career services. "For the first time in 24 years at least."
TCU alum Dale Young has been with the college of education for 34 years.
"We had a crisis eight to ten years ago, but nothing like this," Young said. "This is probably the worst ever."
To improve the odds of getting a job, TCU has started requiring future elementary teachers to be certified as either ESL or special education, in addition to their other specialties. Other education students are encouraged to test for as many certifications as possible.
University of Texas at Arlington graduates about 400 teachers per year.
"We don’t want it to be demoralizing," said Jeanne Gerlach, UTA College of Education.
Gerlach said her students must be ESL certified, but they are also encouraged to be patient and flexible.
"I just found opportunities for three of our students in publish," Gerlach said.
Councilors are telling education students that they may have to move far away or wait years for that teaching job if lawmakers do not come up with more money for schools. They believe eventually those teaching jobs will come back.

1. Chapter 5 Notes
2. Spiral Notes
3. Cartoon depictions
4. Charades!



Monday, February 14, 2011

Tuesday, Feb. 15


















Begin Chapter 4!
1. Handout
2. Idioms- What is an Idiom?-Kick the bucket, Raining Cats & Dogs
3. Tongue Twisters

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hQmaiuF6ZA



4. Miss Teen South Carolina p. 123. (Giving & Seeking Info.)



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj3iNxZ8Dww

5. Fillers. p. 126.

6. Pronunciation- p. 108. Pink Panther-Youtube "Hamburger"
 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj3iNxZ8Dww

7. Slurring p. 109. J. Phoenix



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBoGNBSLYRY

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Monday, Feb.14th!




 *Wearing headphones for an hour increases the bacteria in your ear 700 times.
* Flying from London to New York by Concord, due to the time zones crossed, you can arrive 2 hours before you leave. 
*7.5 million toothpicks can be created from a cord of wood. 
*The elephant is the only animal with 4 knees. 
  
*Review Self Disclosure, Self Concept, Self Fulfilling Prophecy-hand out

Read perception p. 71 
1. Continue Chapter 3 w/ Perception.
 words: football player, cheerleader, cowboy boots, doctor, fire fighter, librarian

2. Communication with others. Back to Back activity
3. Small group communication p. 55
4. The Cruise Ship Disaster Activity~ Who Should Survive? Presentations.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Wed., Feb. 9th! MOVIE Time!




It's SHOW TIME!

1. Grading one another.

2. Get with your group. Pull up your computer, and make sure everything is ready to go!!!!!

Monday, February 7, 2011

Projects begin Wed.

Projects will begin on Wed., Feb.9th

Choose a song (or someone can sing) w/ a group of 3 that represents something in your lives, or has great meaning to you all. Create on iMovie. You may include pictures, slides, video, etc. Include the following:

a. artist
b. title of song
c. partners names
d. Tell audience a bit of detail behind the reason for choosing the song.
**Bring flash drive throughout the time to save project.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

ICE!

ICE DAYS: Feb.1, Feb.2, Feb.3

Be safe! Miss you all!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011




Next major project:

Song presentations:
Choose a song (or someone can sing) w/ a group of 3 that represents something in your lives, or has great meaning to you. Create on iMovie. You may include pictures, slides, etc. Include the following:

a. artist
b. title of song
c. partners names
d. Tell audience a bit of detail behind the reason for choosing the song.
**Bring flash drive throughout the time to save project.

Chapter 3 Notes.
Rubber bands, self talk log.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Wed., Jan. 26-Early Release

Self-Esteem quiz

1. I allow myself to make mistakes, realizing that we all learn from failure.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

2. My value as a person depends greatly on what others think of me.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

3. Whether I’m celebrating a success or getting through a rough period, I “reward” myself in self-defeating ways, e.g. overeating, or going on a spending spree when I am already in debt.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

4. I have trouble asking others for favours and tend to apologize a lot.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

5. I’d rather keep an unsatisfactory item than return it to the store. In a restaurant I’ll eat a meal, even if it isn’t what I ordered, rather than return it to the waiter.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

6. I berate myself for saying or doing the wrong thing, calling myself “stupid.”
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

7. I would do something against my better judgment rather than risk another person’s disapproval.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

8. When I look at myself in the mirror, I see only my flaws.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

9. I think of how my life would improve if only I were smarter or better looking.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

10. I graciously accept compliments and praise instead of tossing them aside.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

11. I do things which nurture, strengthen and relax my body.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

12. I am able to accept my vulnerable feelings like sadness, fear or anxiety.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

13. When I need comfort, I am able to turn to friends or family and let them know how I feel.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

14. I am comfortable expressing my angry feelings.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

15. I am able to assert my needs and wants with family members, colleagues or my friends.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

16. I recognize and value my need for solitude or “quiet time.”
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

17. I actively pursue and maintain friendships with people I truly like.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

18. I balance my life with pleasure and fun, recognizing that I work harder when I am well rested.
a) never or hardly at all b) sometimes c) frequently d) very often

SCORING
Now add up all your points as shown below.

question 1: a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4
questions 2 through 9: a-4, b-3, c-2, d-1
questions 10 through 18: a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4

RESULTS

1-18 POOR
You rely heavily on other people’s opinions and find it hard to assert yourself in your professional or personal life. You are so anxious to please others that you often ignore your own needs and wants. You are also prone to rewarding yourself in self-destructive ways (e.g. overeating). It is important for you to do things that will nurture you – such as reading a book, swimming, walking in nature or just listening to music.

19-36 FAIR
Although you make sure that you honour your commitments to others, you are often self-critical and overly demanding of yourself. You are quick to blame yourself when things go wrong. Learn to be more tolerant of your own mistakes and pay less attention to what others may think. You do manage to find time for what’s important in your life, which gives you a feeling of satisfaction.

37-54 GOOD
You know who you are and what you need to be happy and usually are willing to take the time to do something that will fulfill you. You are always trying to improve yourself and surround yourself with supportive friends or family. You see your strengths but may need to learn to work with your weaknesses. For example, you may have a short attention span and work best in spurts. By recognizing this and giving yourself frequent breaks, you will be more productive.

55-72 EXCELLENT
Congratulations! You have a deeply developed sense of self and are self-nurturing. You respect your own feelings as well as those of others and have no qualms about turning to friends or family when you are in need of comfort. You are patient with yourself. If you feel a resistance to doing something, you get to the root of your feelings instead of forcing yourself to go ahead. You lead a healthy, well-balanced life.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Pretty People



Sunday, January 23, 2011

Monday, Jan. 24

Star Presentations begin!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Thursday, Jan. 20



Obama may attend Super Bowl XLV

During a photo opportunity with the president of China on Wednesday, President Obama said that if his hometown Chicago Bears win the NFC championship game this weekend, he will be coming to the big game at Cowboys Stadium on February 6



1. What makes a good speaker?
2. Gardere Oratory Competition winner
3. Intrapersonal Creative Writing Assignment
4. Begin Star Project.-Major Test Grade
5. Decorate close pin with name.

Chapter 2 Prezi

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Wed., Jan. 19


Did you know that a Hummingbird weighs less than a penny.



1. Grade Vocab. quiz
2. Finish scenario with partner
3. Introduce the Star Project

Monday, January 17, 2011

Tuesday, January 18

Plexers! Solve the puzzles!

1. Chapter 1 Vocab. quiz
2. Chapter 2 Prezi Notes
3. Appointment clock: Work on Chapter 2. Create a real life scenario. See handout.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Chapter 1. Vocab Prezi

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Thursday, Jan. 13



Fun Fact!

A sneeze travels out your mouth at over 100 m.p.h.

1. Complete Communication Collages
2. Chapter 1 Vocab. practice quizzes

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Wednesday, Jan. 12

A Plexars!

B. Chapter 1 Communication Collage-instructions on handout
C. Chapter 1 vocab. quiz on Monday
D. Post a comment by Friday!

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Tuesday, January 11th



Fun Fact or Useless Knowledge!

101 Dalmatians and Peter Pan (Wendy) are the only two Disney cartoon features with both parents that are present and don't die throughout the movie.

1. Your Communication Quiz-In your spiral!
2. Chapter 1 Notes-In your spiral! You will need this to study for Monday's vocab. quiz over Chapter 1.





Why is it important that we communicate with others? What would life be like if we didn't interact with one another?

1. Maintaining Good Relationships.
2. Communication Quiz in Spiral.
3. Chapter 1 Notes


P.S. Don't forget to post a comment by Friday for a free 100!!!

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Expect the Unexpected



Friday, Jan. 7th:

1.Interview Presentations!
2. Class Picture on stairs
3. Comm App Questionnaire-Have you ever spoken in front of a group of people, etc.?

Things to remember while presenting!
Smile! Be comfortable! Talk loudly! Show enthusiasm! Watch "ums, uhs, like!"
HAVE FUN!!!!

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Thursday, Jan. 6th

2nd Semester

Welcome to Communication Applications/Speech!
Mrs. Butler's Class!

A. Take attendance:
B. Answer the following questions on notecard.

1. Your Name
2. Parents name
3. Parents e-mail/ Phone number
4. Are you in extracurricular activities? If so, what?
5. Coach or Sponsor
6. Anything you want me to be aware of?

Supplies: Spiral, and notecards. Class Procedures. Class Blog Website (leave a comment & receive a free 100! Post by next Friday, Jan. 14th.)
House keeping (turning in papers, all eyes on me, staying in seat, snap, respectful)

About me.....

C. Seating.

D. Me to Me!

E. Appt. Clock

F. Interview 3:00 appt.