Introduction Post for SCED 4200

Hello! My name is Andrew Moon. I started this blog long ago and its purpose has morphed quite a few times. But I've kept the title for a very long time since I believe it fits quite well. And now I get to use this space for a class entitled Language, Literacy, and Learning in the Content Areas. I'm excited that I have something to breathe some life back into this thing, and perhaps I'll continue blogging more regularly. (I'm sure my family will appreciate it).

Well, let's talk about me! Let's start with some random quick facts: I got glasses because I wanted a dog (long story). I have still have some random memories from when I was two or three. I pick up on most skills really quickly, but it takes me longer than most to master any. I ran away from elementary school three times (prime example for my avoidant personality). I usually dislike when people ask me about my hobbies and interests since the first thing to come to mind is MUSIC! Since it is my major most people don't count it as a hobby, but I'll have to disagree with that sentiment. It may be a different type of music, but music is my life blood. Nothing moves me more than a random passage from a sonata here, an aria there, or--heaven forbid-- a musical theatre anthem (I say heaven forbid only because musical theatre is seen as fluff to many in the music world).

When I was sixteen, I attended early college at Weber State, fully planning to move into pre-med, I was sitting in one of my basic chemistry labs and while I found it interesting--maybe a little fun--I realized that I didn't want to do medicine or any form of science day in and day out. I didn't feel like I could do it every day and feel accomplished. I wanted to change people's lives.

I did some intense soul searching, trying to figure out what it was that could give me everything I desired from a profession. I came to a conclusion: be a Choir Teacher. That answer terrified me. I remember in second grade I told my parents I wanted to become a teacher and they answered with an immediate and resounding, "No." They simply didn't get paid enough. I think that was a large part of why I aimed to be a doctor. I didn't want to tell my parents I had changed my mind and wanted to be a teacher again, but I did and it's taken a little bit, but they're supportive of the idea... mostly.

So let's dive into literacy. Literacy is a tricky concept. Yes, reading and writing is great, but there's more to it. To be truly literate is to think for oneself and be able to find truth where there is some to be found and be able to weed out untruths. But don't do so without being considerate for other people's truth. (I hope some of that made sense).

As for what I wish to teach the class, I have no idea. I hope that these ramblings turn into something concrete that others can learn from. I hope to find ways to apply this class to music since I feel most of these SCED classes have been applicable to most disciplines, but not mine. The fact is, music is an entirely different monster. I beautiful, wonderful monster.