Struggles of Unit Planning/Letting Go

                This week, Chris and I presented a portion of our units to our class. I think this exercise was really productive for everyone involved, especially us. When I created the unit map and calendar, it took me much longer than I care to admit. I kept changing plans, moving things around, looking at ways to scaffold students, and so on. You know what I think is really cool about becoming a teacher and creating units like this? It’s sort of fun.

                Sure, while I was creating the plan, and constantly shuffling things around, I wasn't having much fun. I also didn't think it was too fun when in the middle of dinner I stopped eating to jot down notes about movie clips I could incorporate into my unit and then went back to eating cold soup… But I really am enjoying myself. After I created the draft of my calendar, I was really proud. I had a really nice moment, where I kicked back in my chair, put my feet up and just smiled at my computer.

                Not all is always as dreamy as this experience with my plan, however. I still seem to struggle slightly with figuring out how to space things out but still include all the elements I want to. I don’t think having a year-long unit would be beneficial to anyone (I’m pretty sure my students and I would both want to kick Superman’s butt and declare that no one cares if he was motivated by free will or fate in his greatness). So, basically, I am wondering how other people cope with letting parts of their lesson go? I chose all the clips, texts, activities, and projects I thought would behoove my students in examining and learning, but how can I decide which things need to be let go in order to make my lesson more condensed? All my ideas have become my little babies and how do I tell one “sorry, you didn’t make the cut,” like Donald Trump firing a candidate? Maybe this will come with time, but does anyone have any advice? Or has anyone had similar experiences?

                Hope everyone’s Halloween was a success and that your weekends are even better. I have some really exciting news that I will have to share next week.

-Alexandra K. Wiesyk