How do we talk about issues that matter?

One line from the T1 article that I think branches off from this topic is, "What if these conversations are not actually difficult, but simply unpracticed?". For me this shows how controversial topics are hard to talk about, simply because it often leads to arguments due to people being single minded. We have to train ourselves and learn how to respect others and see things differently.  The big issue is that others aren't sometimes willing to see things the way others do, or they don't have enough knowledge of the topic in order to understand. When talking with others about difficult topics, one must go in with an open mind and set aside their own beliefs. Being bias is normal, however, you have to try and understand where the other person is coming from. There can be disagreement, but  it does not mean that one is right or wrong. Students should be exposed to these issues so that they can practice and learn how to converse. As well as use it to learn, for example with history, as hard as it is to learn about slavery, we need to know how we got to where we are by not making the same mistakes. In the video barometer, the line " I never thought of that side of the argument" sums up the thought process that should be the result of engaging in these conversations. Students don't have to change their views, they simply have to understand both sides and respect what is being taught. As we have done these blog post and replies, I find myself learning new things and seeing things through my peers perspectives. We talk about some deep topics, but by trying to see various views, I find myself more knowledged and able to respectfully conversate with others. These topics are hard to talk about because they are important and have a huge impact on our lives and future. 

How is teaching portrayed to the public?

 It is no secret that media has a huge impact on our decisions and how we choose to see things. According to the article, " Hollywood goes to school", Teachers are displayed as "super teachers", meaning they can alter the students lives as if magically. This creates a high expectation of teachers, and makes it seem like they are able to change every single student to be better and have a better life. The movie, "freedom writers" is a great example of  a "super teacher". Ms. Gruwell  was assigned to teach in a classroom with students of different backgrounds and cultures, who were said to be unteachable. Each student had their own personal issues and many were mainly of  low income. Ms. Gruwell would take them on road trips, give them supplies, and create a family like environment. By showing them how alike they are despite of their differences, she was able to adjust to their needs and get them interested in learning. Not only did she better their grades and get them learning, she also changed their lives and helped them steer away from a troubled life.  As inspiring as the theme is, it makes people believe that all teachers should be that dedicated, however, it is different in reality. Teachers are caring and strive for the best of their students, but they can only do so much, they do not involve themselves the way  the teachers in the movies do. This is also why there are a lot of critics who don't believe teachers are well prepared, and that they are not doing enough.