For the Love of Math with Cononiah

 Have you ever wondered how your love language influences you as a teacher? No? That's probably normal. I'm no expert with love languages.  I'm sure you've heard of them before.  If you haven't, here's a quick breakdown. The idea of love languages is fairly new.  They try to describe how we, individually, prefer to receive and give love.  The five love languages are: Words of Affirmation Quality Time Receiving Gifts Acts of Service Physical Touch Some people find validity in this idea, but some find it utter trash.  Whatever end of the spectrum you find yourself on, just keep reading.  It might be interesting. I find myself preferring to receive love by words of affirmation.  This means I want to be verbally reassured.  I want to hear "I love you, I appreciate you."  I want to hear your feelings.  Well, what does this mean in terms of teaching?  I mean, this isn't a blog about my love life.  That would definitely be a shor...

To not enjoy writing, I sure do love a good blog! Most of y'all probably already know, but here's some background information about me before I dive in. I taught 8th grade math for 6 years I became my district's math coach for 2 years I uprooted my life to go back to school and moved I'm currently teaching 8th grade math again Heads up, I think this one will be a long one. At my old school, I started out as the new teacher.  I came in as a first-year math teacher, straight out of college.  I was one of 3 Black teachers employed at the school, and that presented its own problems.  I greatly struggled with classroom management.  I didn't know how to break down seemingly "easy" math topics so students could understand them.  I was nauseous every day going to work.  I honestly don't know how I made it through those first few years.  Actually, I do. I had a fantastic principal.  He was the epitome of support.  Even to this day, I know I can call h...