Teaching with Thematic Instruction

Several people have asked me how my classes are going this first semester of full time teaching. Truthfully, very well but I am a little worn out from talking all the time. I have not done that in ages--taught everyday. Plus the grading of papers can wear a person out as well. I currently teach 5 classes this Fall semester. I teach a Math instruction class, an assessment and research class (both for credentials) and 2 health ed classes and a Masters research and stats class. In the spring I cut back the health ed classes and replace the math with science. I use Thematic Instruction to drive my classes. Otherwise I would get bored. I use the show Numbers for my math class, Curious George for science, CSI for my masters research class, and juggling for my assessment class. The students love it as well. Makes it interesting while learning the material.

Trail of 2 Cities Half Marathon

Here is a quick update on the latest in the racing world of 2007 from the McKenna Family.

Jen finished her last race of 2007 in stunning fashion. She decided, at the last minute, to walk the Fresno Trail of 2 Cities half marathon on November 11. She finished in 3h 36m. She met a wonderful companion while walking and they finished together. Funny thing was that she finished this race walking with the same time as the Disneyland Race, and she ran that one. What a great year for her!!! Titus Canyon 30k in Death Valley in February, Disneyland Half Marathon in September, and Trail of 2 Cities Half Marathon in November.

For me, I completed the half marathon in 2h 3m. 20 minutes faster that the Disneyland Half Marathon. One more race for 2007: Sacramento Marathon in December. Then it is some well deserved time off before starting the Ironman training in 2008.