ABSTRACT

This book invites readers to explore the complexity of becoming a teacher through the stories of two novice ELA teachers, Emelio and Rachel, over the course of their first two years. The authors’ detailed, empathetic, and ethnographic approach allows space for the teachers to reveal little-seen and often overlooked "wobble moments." These moments illuminate the complexity and nuances that confront, confound, and compel teachers to remain in dialogue with practice. Documenting the journeys of two teachers with compassion and intellectual rigor, this book provides insights into and challenges preconceived notions of what it means to be a teacher. It is essential reading for preservice teachers, scholars, and researchers in English education, as well as individuals considering teaching as a profession.

chapter 1|17 pages

The First First Day

The Excitement and Tension of Moving into the Role of Teacher

chapter 2|17 pages

Emelio, Autumn of the First Year

The Necessity of Trial and Error
ByBob

chapter 3|17 pages

Rachel, Autumn of the First Year

Traversing Collegiality, Classroom Management, and Planning Challenges

chapter 4|16 pages

Emelio, Spring of the First Year

Negotiating Classroom Order, Teacher Needs, and Student Expectations
ByBob

chapter 5|17 pages

Rachel, Spring of the First Year

The Importance of Collaboration and a Search for Balance

chapter 6|17 pages

Emelio, Autumn of the Second Year

Authentic Assessment, Power, Positioning, and Peer Influence

chapter 7|17 pages

Rachel, Autumn of the Second Year

Change Is Good! Change Is Good?
ByBob

chapter 8|18 pages

Emelio, Spring of the Second Year

Learning to Nurture Literacy Development Through Connection

chapter 9|17 pages

Rachel, Spring of the Second Year

Teaching Dialogically, School Safety, and Uncertain Futures

chapter 10|14 pages

A Place we Want to be