The Benefits of Failure

              The idea that "Failures leads to success" is a common cliche that is sometimes seems too mainstream to believe, especially in a school, where failure seems common, but doesn't have a happy ending. It is important to stress to your students that this theory is true. Failure can be very discouraging in school, which is why it is so apparently vital to teach students that one failure does not lead to a long road of them.
               Failure is so seemingly common in school, and it happens so easily. As a teacher, is it important to let your students know that an error is not the end of the world. Some teachers hate retakes because they feel as if the students should have prepared for it the first time. The point is understandable, yet a student who couldn't be bothered to study the first time, won't work for a second chance. The importance of retakes pertains to the students who made a mistake or an error. This type of student strives for success but it is denied to them due to their one failure. It is essentially hypocritical to force the ideal that failure leads to success and not offer redemption for a failure.
          The thought that "Failure leads to success" is a true idea, but only if it is actually demonstrated in someones life. This can be a motivating factor in a student's experience, if it is taught and stressed the right way. A students motivation will visibly increase if they know that they can always try their hardest, and eventually it will pay off.

Debate and Discussion in the Classroom

                We already know passion and connection to real life in class is the best way for students to learn. But what is a beneficial way to get students fired up about topic they enjoy, and teach them more about the topic? A classroom discussion or a debate is the best way to inform students about relevant topics, keep the class engaged, teach them valuable communication skills, and keep them passionate.
            First thing's first, pick a topic. Take a class vote to see what the class is interested in, or analyze a song or poem and discuss the topic that reveals itself from the piece. Whatever you do make sure it is not simple; make it relevant to their lives. Get the students passionate about the topic you discuss, that is the only way they will learn from the discussion. Keep students engaged by opposing their opinions to stimulate their minds. Make sure the entire class is engaged, you want everyone's opinions, sometimes the quietest kids have the most to say. Help them practice their communication skills (proper grammar, eye contact, confidence, etc.). Finally, make sure that the students understand their opposites. They can become well informed people, who can make their own decisions based on facts.
           This is one of the absolute best ways to educate students about things relevant to their lives. If the discussion and debate strategy is practiced regularly in the classroom, a spark of new found passion will be seen in the students. I truly believe it will be beneficial to the students and the teachers, and continue to knock down the predetermined barrier between them, which is one of the most important things in the classroom. Also, certain topics discussed can expand your knowledge as a teacher, about particular students. A student's opinion in discussions that can spark a passion in them, can reveal things about them priorly unknown to you. There are a tremendous amount of benefits you will see instantly these steps are followed to make your class more engaging for everyone.