I remember cramming for my Spanish tests on the bus on the way to school. I felt this was an effective way to study because I always received good grades and was actually an honors Spanish student. However, this was not effective in college, because I had forgotten most of my Spanish due to the fact I was studying for a test, not to retain information. In chapter 4, the discussion is about comprehension. How can we make the students retain this info? I know for me, if I don't think I will use it in the future, I dump it like an old computer file. In chapter 15 is says if children can find personal significance, a connection, the information will stay with them. I have tried and will continue to try to connect lessons to my students lives. I know if I can relate to something I am more likely to retain it.

I had a hard time putting down "Chew on this" because I find it so true in today's society. My first job was at McDonald's, I worked in the drive through and didn't really handle much food except for an occasional batch of fries or a salad. It is really true when you think about the placement of workers in the restaurant. Boys in the back cooking, girls out front to serve the people. Not one girl in the two years I managed to stay there (WOW!) worked in the back. Even though I saw how the food was prepared and dropped on the ground, I still ate it. It was addictive.