What I learned from my boyfriend, Geoffrey Chaucer

My students are analyzing lines from the general prologue of "The Canterbury Tales." What I learned today is that students are so accustomed to reading texts literally that it is difficult for them to perceive irony and the masterful sarcasm written by Geoffrey Chaucer, who I like to refer to as my boyfriend (I checked with my husband, and he doesn't mind). One of the reasons for my love of Chaucer is that he can insult people to their faces and they will not even be aware that a back-handed compliment has even been delivered. He is the expert of euphemistic speaking and my idol!

However, his wit is lost to many of the students until they read, reread, and consider--sometimes with some guiding questions--what the actual intentions in his statements are. At first the process frustrates the kids, but once they discover Chaucer's between-the-lines meanings, they understand him, and I think they are growing toward appreciation, maybe even admiration????

Because they say you learn something new every day...

I''m going to make an effort to post what I have learned about students and their reading or writing each day. I have a new resolve for writing at least a small post every day. We'll see if I can keep the pace :)

What I learned today is that students appreciate receiving feedback from their peers, and peers are often brutally honest in that feedback. As the juniors were delivering their persuasive speeches, many were thrilled to leaf through the comments provided by their classmates. Most were pleased with their evaluations; however, some were as shocked as I was at the crtiquing abilities of those around them. The majority of the criticism was constructive but at times was more vague than I would have liked for it to have been. I think if I'd have allowed more time to reflect upon the speeches, students would have provided more directed comments.

So, my lesson for myself today:
authenticity of audience=good
rushing through reflection=bad