Gratitude

      Dear mom,

I admire you so much. You are hard working, dedicated and determined. Even with two kids you managed to finish school, work and do things you enjoy. You've set good examples for me and always encourage me to do what is best for myself or what I feel is right. Even when we have fights I know you still love me and that I will always love you. You can find the fun in serious situations, and be serious when William and I need you to be. I love when we spend time together and bond, doing things from cooking, to building things together. You showed me that I can be independent, but still express myself. You really are amazing.

Banned books

    Banning books seems absurd to me. Books are part of human society, and banning some books because they challenge certain views is simply outrageous. Yes, I do believe that certain things should not be exposed to children at certain times in their lives, but that is for their parents to decide. There is some content that can be considered inappropriate but we do have the freedom to choose what we want to read. People choose what to read based on what they like, this ban is the same as banning perfectly good food from a grocery store because of it's name or because it is made with sugar. Ridiculous. In conclusion, I believe that banning books should not be allowed to happen so easily, it is a freedom we have and it should stay that way.

Key to Success response

   Hello, my name is Conner, I am in writer's craft because I think it will greatly contribute to my life skills. I am 17 years old and love many things; this includes sailing, drawing, writing, listening to music, and reading. I am interested in writing because I feel it is a good way to show creativity and it is something I enjoy. I have done some writing before, dabbling in stories and poems when I feel the need to write. I work with Toronto Brigantines, a Youth Sail Training program where I am an officer (Somebody who helps teach the new people how to sail). It is a volunteer position throughout the winter and the summer; winter is preparing the ship for the summer and summer is filled with sailing and teaching. I want to go into Marine Navigation as a career and then eventually settle into a trade when I decide to settle down. I love my friends and family, they support me and the things that I do; encouraging me to choose my own path. I am fairly normal, I work, go to school, hang out with friends, do homework, and chores. It can get pretty busy but it is what it is.

      In the video we watched it described grit and growth mindset; I believe that this was a very interesting topic to discuss and can lead to very thoughtful conversations. We do know what Growth Mindset is. Our school is very growth mindset orientated, and tries to teach this to our students although many are not sure what the point is. This video gives us an idea of where the growth mindset comes from; giving many more people interest in it. Another aspect that this video focuses on is how success is not based on solitary traits that our society seems to focus on such as intelligence, beauty, and so on. This may be very encouraging for some students, or a peak at reality for others; success depends on dedication and perseverance no matter how good you are at something.
    In conclusion I think that this was a very thought and information filled video. This video may contribute to people's motivation in this course and as they continue on their journey through life.