The Value of Continual Learning

Mamacita says:  When it comes to education, I can be quite opinionated.  No, really.  I’ll debate with you about all things educational, and you might as well be prepared to back down at least a little bit because I probably … Continue reading

Invention and Re-invention

This post is sponsored by Oxytrol and BlogHer.The reinvention of ME and the reason for that reinvention are both the result of an invention – specifically, computers. I was a middle school teacher, and had been for over twenty years. … Continue reading

The Monsters Are Real. They Are Good For Us. They Can Be Overcome.

Mamacita says: Once upon a time there was a girl who loved to write. She spent the first few years of elementary school standing silently beside the teachers’ desks, mutely holding out sheet after sheet of paper on which she … Continue reading

Polymers in the Writing Lab

Mamacita says: Yes, it’s true. I use polymers in my writing labs. I also use all kinds of science in my reading labs. I’ve done this for many years.  And guess what: this WORKS. Here’s the thing about learning: everything … Continue reading

It’s only words, and words are all I have, to take your heart away. . . .*

Why not go out on a limb? Isn’t that where the fruit is?” –Frank I’ve always liked that quotation. I also believe it is absolutely true. I think about it whenever I’m feeling particularly cowardly. It helps me overcome it. … Continue reading

Those Who Burn Books Will, in the End, Burn People.*

Mamacita says:  Banned Books Week is coming up this month – Sept. 30 – Oct. 6, 2012.  It always saddens me to be reminded that there are such huge hordes of ignorant masses in the United States, and yet, sigh, … Continue reading