I think that when we look closely at our planet, it’s impossible not to be filled with gratitude. What a gift it is to live in this space fairing civilization. With this gift comes a great burden—we MUST take steps to healing our planet so that it will always be this pleasant to live here. I think Carl Sagan’s speech on “the pale blue dot” sends a powerful message. But WAIT!!! HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS CLASSROOM? Well, again, at Berkmar, we have the wonderful academy lenses through which our instruction must reflect.  Even though Carl Sagan’s speech is focused on planetary, social, political, and religious issues, his ability to efficiently convey an idea is conducted through his linguistic skills. Because of his speaking skills, he is able to deliver a speech that unites all people of the world to bind together and save the planet—and uniting the nations of the world was no easy task then or now. Whether you’re an astronomer, a doctor, an office clerk, or architect, communication skills will ALWAYS be useful.

I think it’s very important for teachers to find a positive hook for every lesson. I think showing inspirational videos like this can divulge important info while it motivates students for the next assignment.

Also, zenpencils.com is one of the best resources a teacher can use in the classroom. It’s a website with illustrations of various poems, stories, speeches, etc. They also make videos with these illustrations, and I’m including Carl Sagan’s “The Pale Blue Dot” in this post. It is especially helpful for ESOL students because they can see the words as they are being spoken. I strongly recommend zenpencils for any teacher looking to engage her students in literature.