We’ve got to be honest with our kids. This is especially true for teachers. When a kid asks ‘Why do I have to study this subject?’ they deserve an intelligent and well thought out answer. For us as teachers we should dip into our own past. Why did we become teachers of our particular subject? How has the depth of knowledge that you have accrued in your subject influenced how you lead your life? How has it made your life easier? Or more colorful? How has it saved you money?
Students are required to be in school, which sets up an adversarial relationship almost as soon kids begin to think there are other things they’d rather be doing. It runs against our nature to be required to do anything. At least kids deserve honest answers to why they have to be in school, why they have to study math, English, art, etc. Why, in Station Maine’s situation, they have to go out on a boat in the middle of winter. It is our job to have honest answers to these questions.
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