Chapter 6: Organizing Relationships for Learning

The focus of this chapter is the idea that positive teacher-student relationships are one of the most important and long lasting concepts in the middle school. Curriculum is important of course but what makes a lasting impression on these students are the adults around them. The book argues that team teaching approaches with a small teacher to student ratio is a great way to develop trusting relationships that will promote growth. I agree with the idea. It is important for students to feel comfortable with their teachers so they can freely explore their ideas. If a student feels that the teacher is out to get them, or any idea they have is a bad one, that student is way less likely to participate in the learning experience. If a team of teachers can reach the students as individuals it would be far easier to help the children grow.