Melissa Fredericks

Finding the Joy in Teaching Melissa Fredericks

Finding the Joy in Teaching; From the Toilet to the Scaled Universe shows teachers how to find the joy in teaching even through challenging times such as an overflowing toilet, a senior who needs constant pep-talks to go to class, and a group of out of control four year olds . It contains entertaining stories as well as overviews of difficult areas in teaching, practical application and exercises that will help teachers realize that although teaching is one of the most difficult things a human being can attempt, it can also be one of the most joyful.




This book is organized into four parts;

- Embracing Curriculum; Finding Joy in Topics Meant to be

- Strengthening Assignments; Finding Joy in Student Driven Projects and Activities

- Enhancing Classroom Management; Finding Joy in Creating a Positive Environment

- Developing Relationships with the Students; Finding Joy in the Best Part of All




Each part begins with an overview of that aspect of teaching and what can make it difficult. Following the introduction are true stories from the author's life as a teacher. Readers will laugh out loud, drop their jaw in disbelief, and cry sometimes. They will feel joy in knowing that between all of the challenges of teaching, there is joy that makes it all worthwhile. After each story, readers are presented with a list of three actions that a teacher can do to find joy in similar situations. They are then given a writing/ thinking exercise that will help them consciously find joy in teaching even when they think they don't have the energy to do so.




The book ends with a call to teachers to spread the joy of teaching by sharing their stories with the profession and the world. After all, the joy of teaching found in the short stories that make up the big picture and what you do to embrace each moment.