My entire life I have been blessed to find inspiration in many different role models that helped paint an early picture of success for me. The individual that carried a great deal of influence in my life was my director: Reginald Purvis. He was an incredible instrumentalist and even better teacher that helped me strive to greatness. As I progressed through High School, my director pushed fundamentals and different skills into my playing style and set precedent for how multiple instruments should be played for the rest of my life. During my Junior year, Purvis gave me personal training and criticism that helped me audition for and make the lower level band in my district. A chance to try out for all state band followed from this achievement that was performed in my senior year. I will forever be thankful to him for influencing a professional and enchanting sound that increased my personal relevance as a musician. I am also grateful for his constant mentorship that created a lifetime of joyful playing and employment. I currently play saxophone at the Virginia Military Institute and play for many church organizations for a living when I am home. EL Education states that “Teachers and specialist articulate and enhance the scaffolding or extensions for students who require more challenge, English language learners, or students with disabilities.” I personally believe that Purvis served as the teacher that enhanced my craft and provided that vital scaffolding when learning about music. Purvis, when I needed more of a challenge, stepped up and provided discomfort and the need for constant improvement to be successful. EL education also mentions that teachers support college and career readiness. Mr. Purvis always encouraged me to think about careers and stressed the importance of continuing music in whatever avenue I pursued. Although I did not pursue a career in music, I maintained my playing and used it as a part time job to continue playing during my college career. Regarding actual careers, he taught me to try my hardest and be competitive which is two important qualities of an individual entering the workforce.
This is a great composition, its personal tone creates a compelling argument to let readers know that you understand one of the key fundamentals of education from the article read in class. I also think you have a strong example that solidifies your argument.
One thing you may want to consider is somehow incorporating the principles of education as discussed in the Dewey article or at least find a way to reference something from Dewey before the final graded blog.
I really like the tone of this a lot of people really dont realize just how important this is.
Tahvon,
Your preparation with a musical instrument begins to illustrate Dewey’s two principles of “continuity” and “interaction” in his theory of true educational experiences. The mentorship you received from Purvis sponsored this opportunity and took you on a journey in which over time, you became aware of your “powers” with (technique, confidence, commitment) the sax, as well as the social interactions it gave you in peer communities of musicians, and with different audiences. Regardless of what classroom you find yourself in this semester, using your music as a metaphor for your aesthetic and social capacities as a learner will be a great example to share. I would consider going back to Dewey and see what you can pull from his writings to support this personal example. MAJ Hodde
I can appreciate your experience because of the role that certain teachers have played in my life in enhancing my potential. I support your emphasis on the importance of teachers in the learning experience and how their recognition of a students potential can truly make a difference. You also did a good job including. a quote from the textbook, providing evidence other than your own experiences to back up your assertion. The only thing that you could add that you didn’t mentions was one of EL Educations Core Principles.
I enjoy how you use past experiences in order to show how you have learned and like to learn. It’s also very interesting how you say recognition is important. I think recognizing good work promotes more good work and a happier and healthier environment. Thank you for sharing your experiences.