Wednesday, January 27, 2010

I Won Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Honorable Mention!


Ok, I realize I am two days late with this, but Monday was a rough day and American Idol was on last night so surely you can't expect it to be done during all that. Anyway, I thought this was an appropriate title because it not only describes Lauren Snapp, who has won all these awards, but it also summarizes my life as well. We are into our fourth week now, and it seems like our fourth day. I don't know if I've ever had two classes at the same time as good as these (1st and 3rd). I'm generally already burnt out by this point in the semester, but every day has been fun thus far. Hopefully that will continue. So, whether you realize it or not, we actually have done quite a bit of stuff thus far. What do you guys think about the first four weeks of class? Has it been what you expected? Is it better or worse than expected? What am I doing right so far? In what areas do I need to improve (I know my ADD, but anything else)? What about the activities and the little life lessons I mix in every now and then? Have any of them meant anything to you or am I just wasting my time? Be honest. I like constructive criticism.
I hope some of you will take, or have taken, the time to watch a little bit of the State of the Union address. I think it is important that we view issues from all angles (think koala bear), whether we agree or disagree with the President. How do you think President Obama has done thus far? After viewing his address, what do you think his goals are for the upcoming year? Are they realistic goals or are they "pie in the sky" type stuff? I really would like to take a day and discuss some of this stuff in class (if I can get Dylan off Seth's lap long enough). I guess I'll wait and see how the responses turn out, (and see if I can get Niya to stay awake two days in a row), before I make that commitment. Well, surely I have given you enough to discuss over the next couple of days. I'll try and check for posts as quick as I can and get them approved so you can respond to each other.

You stay classy Ramseytopia,

Czar Ramsey out!!

27 comments:

Nick Waddill said...

So far the class has been...interesting. I think the ADD is good sometimes because right when I start to get bored you run off on a random story. I'll be watching the State of the Union address tonight so I'll have to get back to you on that one.

Alex Bailey said...

The first four weeks of class have been different. I thought it would be slightly less structured than it is based on the way people that had it first semester talked about the class, but it's probably what you would expect from an average level class. So far you've made it on the line between excessively easy and moderately difficult. The notes are on the powerpoint, but the actual important information comes from what you are saying directly after reading the line on the powerpoint, which actually forces you to listen and incorporate what you're saying into what the point actually is. Most teachers just put it all on the powerpoint, black and white everything you need to know. (I know this because...well, let's say when I was "studying" my notes for the test more of the answers came from the statements I wrote down about what you were saying, instead of the literal information from the powerpoint).This presents a new challenge.

You weren't exaggerating when you said you were long winded. There actually is a point, and I see that at the end, but it seems like surely there is a way to streamline some of the stories, etc.

And I haven't viewed the Presidents address yet, so no comments there. As far as personal opinions go, it seems like Obama isn't exactly doing a 180 for the governmental/economic situation, but can you expect much considering the state Bush left it in?

Abby Buckner said...

You are doing great i class, and your life lessons are great and funny. I think that Obama's ideas for this year are complte "pie in the sky" type stuff. I do not agree with him and can not wait for the next elections.

Shakniqa said...

first off how yu gonna call my girl niya out like that ramsey!! your horrible! but i love your class and think your a good teacher and have learned lots of things in your class so far! the LOST game was fun and i learned that if yu dont have a government than things will get CRAZY!

P.S. WE WANT OUR KRISPY KREME ASAP

Jordan Mallory said...

Class has been intriguing and entertaining. While most of the stuff covered thus far has been pretty much common knowledge, the provided anecdotes are always pleasing and challenging. Alex is correct about having to find the information necessary to the test in the things you say and not the powerpoints. Though this does require some form of acute mental ability. It would be nice to have either more information in the slides or at least some page numbers to find things in the book.

There have been many a time throughout the class when I wondered how you were going to tie in whatever you are talking about with the lesson, but some how you do it. Your life lessons are always insightful and entertaining. One particular one discussed today became relevant this evening when I watch Chapelle's "When 'Keepin' it real' goes wrong."

As for the State of the Union address. I wish I had the same trust I had in Obama when he was elected. Sadly, this year has shown him to be capable of much less than he stated. While everything he said sounded nice, I harbor doubts as to whether it will actually be done, because I sure would love college to be cheaper. His idea of increased focus on math and science scares me, particularly since I plan to major in English in college and if education shift, finding a job will be much harder. It is hard for me to trust Obama. I understand it has only been a year and it is hard to get anything done in that amount of time, but I wish he could grasp this concept also. He definitely has a lot of walking and a lot less talking to do before he has my trust again. Nonetheless, America will eventually make enough of a turn around to get back on its feet no matter who the president is. He was definitely right about needing to make progress in order to keep up with other nations, but this will take the action of every citizen.

And yes we need Krispy Kreme.

Jennifer Pham said...

Hey Coach Ramsey i personally think that your class is a lot of fun. It's really interesting and fun and i'm looking forward to this semester!

I also hope i did well on our first test! *Crosses Fingers* :D!

Anonymous said...

great class to take, i wanna know more about Obama's policies...

Conwedee said...

I think so far this class has been more fun than I expected it to be. I like the way how you incorporate random stories that somehow go along with the topic. The lost game was really interesting... just because we saw who really stepped up to the leadership role. The test was a little bit harder than I expected though. Hopefully, next time we'll get to use our notes too :).

Ashley Ray said...

I think that you are doing a great job as a teacher. Your a little everywhere now and then but that's what keeps me interested in the class. From what I heard from my past teachers they said that U.S Government was very dry and boring but with you teaching it;it's very fun. I really enjoy the life lessons you teach us because I use them in everyday life now. It is teaching me how to make the right decisions in life.
With Obama as president I think he's trying to say whatever the people want him to say just so they will like him,but so far I really haven't seen anything he said he was going to do be done. He's letting down his country.

Keely Hawkins said...

Ramsey!! I liked the LOST game and it really taught me alot about how the country would be without a government. I also enjoyed the state of the union and hope that what Obama says will come true. And you really do have ADD and thanks for tripping me in class.

P.S. WE STILL WANT OUR KRISPY KREME!!!

Kiran Malikayil said...

Your class is really fun. I enjoy all the life lessons; it reminds me of Mr. Estepp's class on the 8-9 campus. I think you are doing a good job teaching the class and explaining all your lessons with funny examples. I think Obama has been average so far. I have not really seen much of the President's Address; I only heard that he is trying to take all the troops out by August which is interesting to say the least.

Eric Bruce said...

I have enjoyed your class so far. I have to say the activities like the koala bear and lost were actually helpful in illustrating important concepts like perspectives and the need for government.

And about Obama I agree with Abby about it being completely unachievable, "pie in the sky", promises. All we can do is be optimistic and wait for 3 more years . . . and then another 4 because he will get reelected . . .

Ashley Ford said...

RAMSEYYYYY!! WHAT UP BOY!!

Okay so far this class has been my favorite! I think you are a very good teacher, and you make learning fun! Even though I wasnt there for the LOST game.. the day that I was there was fun!

Catherine told me to remind her to do this.. I forgot to remind her.. oh well its her birthday she doesnt have to do homework tonight, right?


See ya Ramsey!

Caleb Imboden said...

Well, other than the fact that Ramsey ALWAYS thinks that Isaac is calling him retarded - which he is - I think that class has been probably the most fun I've had in a class. While most of what's learned pretty much is common knowledge as far as government goes (one would assume. . .), I thoroughly enjoy his life lessons and don't think that we have EVER wasted time with multi-media presentations because let's face it: everyone loves a good movie during class.

jazmine brown said...

I feel like shooting myself everytime I hear your voice.... jk jk your awesome:)

Luke Norris said...

i love the class and i liked the lesson about how your dad seems to get smarter as you get older. I didnt have time to get to watch the state of the uniion adress so i have no idea wht Obama said in that.

jazmine said...

yeah. your class is very entertaining. ur a pain without over the top. and also ( i know this will make ur head ten times bigger) I am learning life lessons from u. even though ur a butt u do care about ur students.... ok im gonna stop now. this is too corny. :)

Shawn Brandon said...

yeah you class is sweet.... you seem to be a cool guy. i hope your test aren't too hard. any ways. sorry it's so late just got off from work.

Ethan Houston said...

Class so far has been fun for me. Atleast for the three days we've been in there because of all the delays and what not. This class has been one of the best i have taken at science hill so far. And as for the ADD problem i dont mind at all. id rather have a really random teacher than a really strict one haha.

Lauren Snapp said...

RAMS! Thanks a lot for the title... I am never going to live that down. If you were wondering why I wasn't in class today, I was at HOSA regionals- you might as well add a blue ribbon to the current list. Anyway, your class is great. It is a good part of my day that I look forward to. Everything we have learned so far hasn't been too too difficult, but may have been forgotten or over-looked in the past. All the newer things we are learing, I need to know. The life lessons are a plus! As far as Obama goes, right now I’m keeping watch on all the health care plan stuff. It is worrisome to me. Oh and the ADD, not a problem. I have the natural blonde thing so maybe they kind of average out... or something.
So yeah, have a super weekend! I'm glad I could be of help as far as your title picking goes... Oh boy I know I'm gonna hear about it Monday...
~L.

Travis Ramsey (long lost relative twice removed, jk) said...

So here it is, the long awaited comment. (that apperantly is a grade) Your class is amazing and so much fun, tho im still trying to decied which i have learned more about, government or life. o well, so my favorite lessons are the ones that include "multi-media presentations" in them. well thats all ive got to say, its late and im off to the airport.
p.s. do you think halston and haley will ever figure it out?

saeth said...

class so far has been fun for me your little rants keep everything interesting. i WAS NOT the one trying to get dylan on my lap he just decided to take a seat. im pretty excited for the rest of the nine weeks

May Thompson said...

So I just remembered to do this. I recognize that I'm late, but at least I'm doing it, right?

Though on a more important note, I agree with Alex and Jordan in reference to the appreciaition of the lessons learned from your lectures based on life and experiences. They are undoubtedly appropriate for us as young adults, and I think I can speak for all of the class by saying that there is distinct relevance in what you are saying to our lives. Props on that, Rams.

And when it comes to the State of the Union address, I have no comment because I have yet to see it. Though when it comes to Obama in general, I don't have trust. To keep it appropriate, I think he has done a poor job in turning this country around as he said he would. His plans scare me. His ideas are entirely too socialist, and I disagree with his reformation ideas.

And I love the class. I don't dread getting up and coming to school in the morning because I know I'll be coming to a class that I will benefit from and thoroughly enjoy. Thus far, it is living up to everything I expected and more.

Dylan Green said...

i've had a great time in the class so far. you're life lessons are nice to hear and you have the uncanning ability to tie them into the lesson some how. i'm not real sure on what to say about obama cause he hasnt done much so far.

and i do not sit in seth's lap, he pulls me onto it

sara blevins said...

hey ramsey! i know its a little late but its here. i think that your class is wonderful and you are becoming one of my favorite teachers and thats saying alot. i know that alot of the time you think im ignoring you but i hear you...who couldn't? lol i think your a great teacher because your friends with your students instead of treating them like they are another hassle like some teachers. I do learn alot of life lessons and some of your stories do relate to what your teaching..sometimes haha. As far as commenting on our president i hope that he hurries up and gets impeached. i know that sounds bad but i really don't agree with anything he says or does. back to your class don't cahnge anything except maybe letting us use notes on the test!!! peace out and stay classy Ramsey!!!!

Anonymous said...

Ramsey this better be not be a late grade cause my internet was down for weeks! Anyways ive enjoyed the class so far and all of your lessons. cant wait to start on the video and stuff. Gimme that A.

haley:) said...

heyy it me the "liar"

lets feed ramsey some compliments...
haha jp i like your class so far! its been funny.
i didnt like the koala bear thing it was confusing.. but it taught you early on not to pick me as an example in front of the class.
and im braiding halstons hair tmr and theres nothing you can do about it.. hahaha

gotta go see ya!

About Me

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I reside in Knoxville, TN and currently teach at Clinton High School. I am married to my beautiful wife Derenda and we have a wonderful son named Peyton. We are passionate people that are passionate about people. We are active in the recovery community and want nothing more than to reach someone who is struggling.