Organizing Relationships for Learning (Ch.6)

Abstract
In this chapter of Turning Points 2000 the authors go into much detail on how important it is to build and maintain meaningful relationships throughout the school. In middle school, it is incredibly important for students to have a solid and positive relationship with the teachers and as the chapter points out, students with these types of relationships are far more likely to succeed in the school environment. Because of the importance of such connections, the chapter suggests that middle schools maintain low numbers of enrolled students. This is not possible in all areas, especially in overpopulated urban areas, so there comes a backup plan. The suggestion made in the chapter is when the enrollment numbers are slightly higher than preference, that the schools form smaller alternatives within the large school. These alternatives can be called "houses" in some instances. These types of arrangements can allow the students to still maintain those close relationships with teachers without getting lost in an overpopulated school system. This type of focus and connection can be incredibly beneficial to students throughout the middle school years. Teamwork is an essential part of making these types of situations useful and effective.

Reflection
I think it makes perfect sense for students and teachers to maintain healthy relationships throughout the years. It is even more of a success if the students and teachers can continue that connections while moving through other teachers' classrooms. I find it vital for these young students to have an adult to look up to, seek help from, and depend on. Where some of the students might be missing these connections in other parts of their lives, a learning environment is a perfect place to make and keep those important relationships. Successful students will come from a comfortable and positive work and learning environment, I truly believe that! Also, the concept of keeping student group numbers down by separating overpopulated student body, can definitely be beneficial to students. The attention and detail required for middle school team teaching and the learning that should be building each year are only going to be attended to if their are a feasible amount of students in the classroom. An overpopulation can cause some students to get lost among the crowd and slip behind without notice. It is more effective to keep the student to teacher ratios to a reasonable rate where all of the students can receive equal attention and their needs can be met.