Is That Okay??
17 12 2008The Background: My students were working in partners on math. It ended up that this one little guy who has some trouble with math (and school in general, who was purposely paired a another little guy that was good in math) had already completed part of the assignment on accident. (Obviously, part of him not doing well in school is that he has trouble with directions.)
Anyway, so I suggested he sit and “help” the other guy catch up (who really needed no help at all but at least they would be discussing math).
A few problems later, the boy who is good in math asked me a question that really could have been answered by his partner. They were sitting close and just asked it from where they sat. I looked up and said, “Well why don’t you just ask your partner? He can help you.” (wanting to give the little guy with math issues some self-esteem).
The Laugh: The little guy with the math problems looked right at me and said sure. And then he WINKED at me. Twice!
Had I been anywhere else, like a restaurant or Walmart, I would have thought it to be very inappropriate. But, I was in my classroom. And for one of the few times in my life, I was speechless.
I don’t think he meant it inappropriately. But it sure was . . . well, I guess I am still speechless.
I think he probably does not have enough life experience for the wink to have been meant inappropriately. But I do think the kid has enough experience in who he is and his limitations and is wise enough to be able to laugh about it a little instead of taking himself and his shortcomings so seriously. Good for him!