My students work really hard, so on Friday, I decided to treat them by having class and watching Beloved at my house.
My home is just five or so blocks away from the school, so it was an easy walk. I provided some cupcakes and Sprite, a student got some popcorn, and we were in business.
Somehow, all 23 of my students squeezed in and fit into my relatively small living room. After a truncated class session (a quick reminder of the homework), we began the film.
The movie was all right — much less powerful, of course, than the book. Nevertheless, the event was a success.
In order for the students to keep trying, they need some fun every once in a while. The more I can emphasize teamwork and togetherness, the more my students will give of themselves.