Pedaços de papel...

... com Anabela Santiago


Charlotte’s Web

There sure are timeless stories. This one was read to me during my 3rd grade, at Cunningham Elementary School, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, U.S.A., and I’ve read it over and over again. As a child its message taught me many important things. As a grown up it helps me in my teaching activity, which isn’t easy in my home country (Portugal).

I miss the school I grew up in, the one that made all the difference, the one that assured me that teaching was what I really wanted to do. Why is this happening? Well, I live and teach in a country that doesn’t regard teachers’ work as one of the most essential in the formation of a society. A country where the Government doesn’t take into consideration teachers’ efforts and true needs. A country where teachers are systematically disrespected by those who are not... where (unreal) results tend to be more important than true knowledge!
If you know and read the book, you will probably recall Charlotte’s (the spider) clever and wonderful way of saving Wilbur (the pig) from his unhappy fate. I feel much like Wilbur now... so I would really appreciate if you shared your experience/your opinion with me. What is teaching like in your country? How does society treat teachers?...