Metacognition: First Semester

This first semester has taught me that there are two ways to handle our English class. Some find it easier to slump down in their chair and completely zone out, mentally leaving the room all together. These people stare down the clock, watching the second hand ever so slowly click round and round, wanting time to fly by. On the other hand, you can remain active and actually focus. Speaking aloud or avidly listening, these people know what is going on. They know there is never enough time to discuss what truly matters.

Sure, the first option seems infinitely easier than the second. Everyone has those days when they can't deal with school at the moment. But, in reality, you have to sit class no matter what your situation, so it truly is your choice what you make of it. Letting something as beneficial as a good class discussion slip by unnoticed is much worse than being bored for an hour. During this first semester, I have grown as a thinker. Personally, I prefer to take the easy way out of things. Yet this mindset is changing, for I have realized that you miss far too much learning and profound thoughts through the easy way.

I know that I still don't speak very often in class. But I feel as though it is unrealistic to determine whether someone is active in a discussion solely by the amount of times they raise their hand. Your thoughts are what really matter, and being constantly and actively listening allows you to be present in class. For me personally, I often have those philosophical thoughts, yet choose to keep them to myself. These beliefs are often unique to me, something personal that doesn't need to be shared in the classroom. When teachers count how many times a student speaks, they are trying to measure the unmeasurable.

This does not mean that I refuse to attempt to participate more, for that is something that I know I must improve on. I have a long journey ahead of me to become a better student, and as each semester passes, I am closer and closer to becoming the best student I know I can be.