i love math

i love math
I hope you get it.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Can you name all 52 states?

I usually teach math. However, due to recent budget cuts (I'm not about to rant about the state of education, don't stress) I have had the pleasure of teaching geography as well. Yes, that's correct. GEOGRAPHY.

The last time I took a geography class was in 5th grade. Albeit, I do know a decent amount of geography without the use of google, or an atlas (you know, an atlas, it's like a book of maps), but that does not mean I am qualified to teach geography in any way shape or form, even if it was to 5th graders.

Well, thank god for google, and for an atlas (yes, i recently used an actual atlas). When was the last time a teenager asked you where lake Okeechobee was? Bet you wish you had an atlas right now huh?

This is the last week my geography kids are required to attend class, as long as they complete the requirements (coloring maps, and labeling countries, and it's harder for them than it should be). Because it's the last week, kids that finished coloring got to start the 175 question final, where they GET TO USE THEIR MAPS. . . should I say that again? They get to use their maps. They also get to work together . . .and use their smart phones.

So, you can imagine my enjoyment concern when I read answers like the ones that follow. Keep in mind that the underlined words are actually underlined on the exam. . .

Q: How many STATES are there in the USA, total?

A: 52


Are you kidding me? FIFTY TWO? And don't try to make this a discussion about English language learners either, this kid speaks English, was born in the U.S. and has lived here his entire life.

Q: What sea separates China and Japan?

A: Russia


Reeeeaaalllly? What SEA separates China and Japan? And you said RUSSIA? RUSSIA?
And the best part of this question, because the kids worked together, more than one student said Russia. Russia must be the SEA that separates China and Japan. Duh.

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