Change of Plans

The Last Time
When was the last time you altered plans while teaching?

Reflect on recent units of the school year. When did you allow yourself and your students to veer off in a direction that wasn't planned? In other words, when did you last follow an interest of a certain class, letting the lesson focus on something that wasn't predetermined?

The Next Time
Take advantage of the next time you can use a teachable moment

It's natural for teachers to jump at any given opportunity that pops up during the day. Allow yourself the freedom to do just that-- follow the enthusiasm of your students. Be in the present, the "right here and now." That flexibility is where the real magic of education can happen. The curriculum will always be there. Remember, you don't teach a subject, you teach students.