ABSTRACT
After an introduction in which Bob Fecho relates his less-than-stellar student teaching experience, this chapter explores stories from Emelio's first autumn as an English teacher. Bob's narration of the chapter weaves together Emelio's stories and reflections in ways that examine the complex relationships between new teachers and their colleagues while also exploring the learning curve associated with responding to the unexpected as teachers develop and navigate relationships with students. Emelio's stories also provide touchstones for considering the reality that teachers must often make complex decisions on the fly and learn through trial and error. In particular, the stories show Emelio hesitating at times, but also starting to develop a sense of what reactions and responses might hold him in better stead in the future.
