Debating Random Topics

[Maoman1]

Ok, the deal here is you choose a side and debate with the topic of the day. I don't know if this will go over well, but it will be interesting. Todays topic: Which is better; Albert Tacos or Taco Bell? Why?

[Boxcar]

Well... I've only had Taco Bell, so that is my side. Obviously, they must have better marketing and word of mouth if I've tried them. I mean, I choose them over the other place. Right?

[Dhe Poet]

Taco Bell and a Mexican pizza for me

[David]

I've only driven by a Taco Bell and have never seen Albert Tacos, come to think of it I haven't even seen Albert. So I guess my vote goes for Taco Bell.

[dsmms]

Taco Bell for me too. I have never heard of Albert Tacos.

[irish223]

I've never heard of Albert Tacos either, so I'll vote for Taco Bell. Actually, I LOVE Taco Bell. However, if you make the debate between Taco Bell and El Famous Burrito, then my vote goes to El Famous Burrito!!! I think I might have to run out for some now!

[David]

We are just getting talking pictures where I live so El Famous Burrito should be here in the next 100 years.

[silvana]

Ok when i was in America last year I sampled Taco belle and it is surely not to my taste at all just .....the portions themselves make a nonsense of sensible eating so my vote goes to the other stuff whatever that is ( I hope Alberts are healthier0

[Maoman1]

Ok, the results are in. Here they are:


Taco Bell:4
El Famous Burrito:1
Albert Tacos: 1

Thanks for posting. Now for todays debate: Star Wars vs. Star Trek. Which is better and why?

Also Silvana, Albert's food is healthier depending on what you get.

[silvana]

mmmm ok I will note that down when I am in the US later this year thanks =)
Star Wars ...I love me a woki

[Boxcar]

I'd say Star Wars. I'm not knowledge about either, but I've seen some Star Wars... Didn't it have the really cute robot in one of them?

[landreth2007]

I vote for Star Wars as I love looking at the wookie's friend, Han Solo. It sure beats watching Captain Kirk writhe in agony. Talk about bad acting.

[David]

Um.....I'm not sure.Both of them put me to sleep. I'll vote for star trek cause its got Spock in it and I've read all of his books on raising children.

[Maoman1]

Star Wars: 3
Star Trek: 1

Okay, next topic. Pepsi vs. Coke.

[dsmms]

I like Coke more than Pepsi - but I wish I didn't like any of them.

[David]

Give me a coke, please.

[Boxcar]

DEFINETELY pepsi. Since we are supposed to be debating rather than just voting, I will give a few reasons. First, I like pepsi's taste and smell better. I think they are more pleasent. Next, I like their logo. Then, there is the many variety to choose from when selecting a pepsi beverage. Finally, there are a lot of pepsi machines.

[dsmms]

DEFINETELY pepsi. Since we are supposed to be debating rather than just voting, I will give a few reasons. First, I like pepsi's taste and smell better. I think they are more pleasent. Next, I like their logo. Then, there is the many variety to choose from when selecting a pepsi beverage. Finally, there are a lot of pepsi machines.

Interesting! I live in the southeast US and Coke rules. Maybe it is a regional thing. Here, we call any cola drink a Coke - Drives my northern friends crazy! Coke tastes better to me, and if I find myself in a restaurant that only sells Pepsi products, I go for the Mountain Dew (or sweet tea - that's a southern thing too)!

[MissTeach]

Give me a Pepsi! Coke has too strong of a taste and Pepsi has a more tantalizing taste! Mountain Dew is okay, but sweet tea is entirely too strong for me!!! I like hot herb teas though.

[Boxcar]

Mmmm... Tea... Much better than coffee!

[dsmms]

Coffee before noon and then it is Coke or sweet tea.......definitely sounding like a caffeine addict.

[silvana]

I don't drink either but if my life depended on it then I guess it would be coke...mmmm tea is so much better though!

[Maoman1]

Sorry, this last week has been so hectic and I am finally able to get the new topic. :bricks:

Would you rather watch TV or get on the PC? Why?

[Boxcar]

Television. Although, I do watch on the computer as well... I spent a couple days watching episode after episode of ANTM several months ago. That was what I did with my free time. Poor choice, but I wanted something that wasn't so serious. Why do I tend to prefer T.V. more? Well, part of it is the sitting up in a chair part. I have a desktop and so my flopping positions are limited. When I watch T.V. I can sprawl on the floor or curl up with the cushions.

[David]

PC because I use it for more things than just searching the net or typing. My PC is a wonderul radio. I love listening to the BBC on it because I can listen to music, plays, book readings,etc.

[Maoman1]

I have a feeling about this next topic.... Which do you prefer? Google.com or Ask.com? If you haven't heard of Ask, try it out.

[Boxcar]

I do not like Ask.com. I'm sure it is a very lovely site, but it is not for me! I am very definete on this. Yes, I have tried it multiple times. It just isn't for me. I'm a Googler at heart. I prefer the Google search engine. As for the Google Chrome browser, that isn't for me. I use IE or Firefox. Right now, I'd say I like Firefox best.

[Maoman1]

Honestly, I agree. Time for another topic. Hmmm..... Which is better? A science teacher or a history teacher?

[Boxcar]

I've had three great history teachers. They each were able to make the subject interesting and relevent. They seemed to be truthful in thier telling rather than always making the U.S. or certain groups sound infailably right.

One of my current co-workers is very interested in science. She has shown me how cool it can be.

So... I think it depends on who is doing the teaching. I don't neccesarily perfer one type of teacher over the other.

If it came down to sitting through a lecture on either subject, I'd go history. Science has got to be more hands-on than talking.

[silvana]

I think that is a hard question I prefer any teacher who enjoys what they teach and has a passion for learning whatever the subject...I truly believe teachers make or break the learning

[David]

I don't mind learning about the history of science.

[Maoman1]

That was an interesting response. It is awesome to hear everyones response to these kind of questions. Anyways, I better get a new topic. So.... Which level of students is,for lack of a better word, better/easier to teach: High School, Middle School/Junior High, or Elementary? Why?

[Boxcar]

YOU FORGOT PRESCHOOL/EARLY CHILDHOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How could you? I'm so offended.

Just kidding. :)

I personally think that my age group is the best. I can teach zero to eight. My favorites currently are the ones and the fives.

Why do I like ECE so much?

Young children have such unique perspectives on the world. They are still discovering and figuring out themselves and those around them. I feel that I can truly teach as a facilitator and provide valuable experiences. The students have not yet developed close-minded attitudes about education, the world, thier peers, or themselves. I can still help a child who has learned helplessness. I can still help a child who hates to read love literature. The book isn't already written on these kids. I can help lay the foundation they will need for future success. I know the teachers who "inheriate" my kids will hopefully not be disappointed by what has be done with the children's education prior to thier classroom.

I also love the way in which I am allowed to teach. Even as this continues to slip away, I appreciate and enjoy it. I can individulize my curriculm for each student. I can set goals with every child and give a healthy mix of one-on-one and group interactions. I can throw out my plans and have an outside classroom when the weather is nice. I can choose where I teach my kids. If I think the sandbox has something to offer, I can do lessons there. Yes, I do have standards to meet. However, I can choose how best to help each student reach these standards. My classroom is still my classroom.

[merrynl]

I enjoy teaching high school students because I can do more complex science with them than I'd be able to with younger students.

However, it is a hard question, because the easiest level to teach is likely to align with your interests. I enjoy working with younger children too (early childhood age are a lot of fun!), but I don't have the energy for that many little kids all the time! I admire those who do.

[David]

I enjoy working with the elementary children because I find they respond better to positive reinforcement. They are always eager to please the teacher.

[Boxcar]

My kids are like that too. Having a teacher sit with them at lunch makes their day! If you tell them you're proud and point out what they did well, they'll just be exstatic.

[Maoman1]

That went even better... Sorry Boxcar, where I'm from, elementary and ECE are in the same building. I must say, this kind of thread is actually fun. So I guess it is time for a new topic. I know that there are other factors involved, but which gender of student typically does better in school?

[Boxcar]

Hmmm...

I kind of have to say females seem to do better in the zero to eight range. They master social skills more rapidly. Additionally, thier physical development of fine motor skills is also more advanced. The boys have a bit more energy and adventure, so they excel in those areas.

Of course, it can be broken down by looking at students individually. Making a sweeping generalization like this is dangerous, but I'll offer it in the spirit of the question.

I think I notice that around five, the two genders are more similiar than they were at three and four. Ones, twos, fives, sixes, sevens, and eights are pretty similiar on the question of boy vs. girl.

[David]

"Does better" does that mean on a day to day basis within the classroom or in the long term. I'd say on a day to day basis girls work and behave better than boys. I'm not sure,at the very end of their education, who would have done better.

[Maoman1]

I guess I was a little broad on that subject, but I still got the same answer I thought I would... Anyways, New topic. Which genre of books do you find more entertaining; Mystery or Sci-Fi? Why? What is your favorite book of this genre?

[Mrs B]

Mystery...not much of a sci-fi fan.:)

Can't really pick a favorite since it's been so long since I have read much of anything except the Twilight series (small children at home, we usually read Junie B. Jones and about monster trucks).

Plus, don't tell anyone, but I'm more of a sappy romance fan. Think Danielle Steele, Sandra Brown, etc. I like easy reads.:o

[Boxcar]

I love "fluffy" books too. If I'm reading for entertainment, I want something sweet, light, and easy.

Between the two, I'd have to say mystery. I like Mary Higgins Clark. Her books are usually quite good.

[Maoman1]

I don't know... I'm kind of into books that have everything. Right now I am reading Revolt in 2100. It is one of four stories in the same book. Two of which are actually short stories. They all have action, sci-fi, romance, mystery, and the works. I love it. Anyways, new topic time. Hmm....What is the best thing to do on a weekend? Why?

[Boxcar]

I really love not having to do anything. I like to just be lazy and let the day happen on its own. It is nice not to have to be in the classroom. I like what I do, but everyone needs a break sometimes.

[David]

I like to catch up with my kids at the weekend because our week is so busy, we spent most of the week caught up in our things.

[Maoman1]

I agree. It is a good thing to have a break once in awhile, but you don't want to over do it. So...Which is more embarrassing? Dropping a drink on yourself, or dropping food on yourself? Kind of a weird topic, but I just want to know what you all think.

[Boxcar]

Ugh. Dropping a drink is worse. Then, you aren't only embarrassed but uncomfortably wet! With food, you can wipe off as much as possible and try a clever fix. For example, you could turn your top inside out. Some shirts still have that unfinished thing going on that look like they're inside out anyway. Food stains are harder to get out of clothes, but drink is more bothersome when you can't change right away.

[Maoman1]

True enough. Ok, here is a new topic. Do you want summer to come, or do you want to stay in school?

[Boxcar]

SUMMER!!! Oddly, I love summer vacation more as a teacher... This summer is going to be a nice break. I haven't had one in a very long time.

The one thing I don't like is that my next center probably won't do summer vacation. Most programs for little children run all year. :( This may be my last time off for quite awhile.

[silvana]

I want summer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

[stynka79]

Summer vacation sounds good!!! I really need it this year, can't wait until the last weekof June...
Good weekend everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Maoman1]

Wow... Sorry Boxcar, I hope you have a great summer, since that is happening... I don't want summer to come. I love school. Today is graduation,(which I am singing at!), but it will be a rough time because out of 34 students in my choir, only ten ARE NOT seniors, including me. This is going to be interesting... Anyways, time for a new topic. So... Which civilization do you guys find the most interesting? The Romans or the Egyptians?

[silvana]

Egyptians...I think we know far more about the Romans, ....how on earth did they build the pyramids? It would be difficult now with our technology... amazes me

[Boxcar]

Hmmm... I'd say the Romans. I like to hear about what we still have they invented way back then.

[David]

It's amazing no one mentioned the great Australian civilization...but......I would have to go with the Egyptians and the pyramids they buiit without a single crane in sight.

[Maoman1]

Alright, time for a new topic. This may be my last one for a bit because of some trouble at home, so I would like to ask Boxcar to take over if it is ok. Anyways, here it is. Will you miss having the kids you have now in class? Why or why not?

[silvana]

I always miss my kids initially till I meet the new ones and get to know them and then I realise I like these new kids as much as the old.....I hope you sort out your problems Maoman take care

[Boxcar]

I always miss my kids. Saying good-bye can be hard. You get into a habit and a routine. It is nice to know your students. They are all special.

(I've got some big shoes to fill! I'll come by after the weekend and post a new topic.)

[Boxcar]

I'm so sorry. I know I've been slackin'. I can't seem to get motivated to do anything.

Okay, I can't promise I'll be good at this. I'll give it a try though.

Do you prefer blue or black ink in pens? I think that the color you prefer says something about you. So, let's hear which one you all think is best.

[David]

I like blue pens. What does this say about me?

[dsmms]

Hmmmmm, I seem to go for the black pen more often. I hope you share what this reveals about us, Boxcar....or do we want to know?? Does using a black pen mean I am evil, dark, scary or just uptight? :)

[silvana]

I like blue too mmm so what does this reveal about me?

[lynn bambusch]

Gee, if those are the only choices, I like black. But I prefer to use many different colored gel pens, green, aqua, purple, anything but red. So what does that say about me????

[Boxcar]

Most text is written in black. Using black ink means that one's comments do not stand out on the page. A smooth and neat look is created. People who like black pen are usually organized. They like things to appear sophisticated and classy. They may be slightly more reserved than those who prefer other colors. Black ink is more "solid" than blue ink. People who use this shade often like facts, stability, and planning. They are not as spontaneous.

Those who like blue ink often stand out whether or not it is intentional. They have unique/charateristic senses of humor. Their writing and speaking is witty. These individuals are more interested in fun than organization. They are spontaneous, adventurous, and vibrant.


What is my choice of pen? I tend to use black pen. I don't agree with everything that goes with that explanation, but it is interesting to think about it.

[dsmms]

Most text is written in black. Using black ink means that one's comments do not stand out on the page. A smooth and neat look is created. People who like black pen are usually organized. They like things to appear sophisticated and classy. They may be slightly more reserved than those who prefer other colors. Black ink is more "solid" than blue ink. People who use this shade often like facts, stability, and planning. They are not as spontaneous.

Those who like blue ink often stand out whether or not it is intentional. They have unique/charateristic senses of humor. Their writing and speaking is witty. These individuals are more interested in fun than organization. They are spontaneous, adventurous, and vibrant.


What is my choice of pen? I tend to use black pen. I don't agree with everything that goes with that explanation, but it is interesting to think about it.

I would agree with most of that. I like facts, stability, and planning, but often fall short of achieving it. I wonder if I started choosing the blue pen if I would become spontaneous, adventurous and vibrant?? :rofl:

[David]

Maybe I'll just use black when I want to be organised.

[dsmms]

I always carried a black pen around with me at school because I was always being asked to sign something - this way I was prepared. This year, however, there seems to be a trend to sign with blue pens. I guess this makes it easier to differentiate between original and copied documents.

[Just ducky]

For me it isn't which I prefer, but which I can find. Why is it that there can be three pens in my purse or on my desk, etc. one minute, but when I need one it is not to be found??

I agree with dsmms---when signing forms the trend has moved to blue and yes, it is easier to tell the original that way!

My personal preference----COLORFUL--purple, pink, green, unique blues, etc. (And like Lynn, anything but red.)

[silvana]

Well I am the most organised person in my school dammit they even gave me a certificate for it.........mmmmm I guess I will need to switch to black!

[bella mundi]

I like blue pen. It just looks prettier. Although my favorite is green!

[David]

a quill made from an emu feather makes a wonderful writing implement

[dsmms]

a quill made from an emu feather makes a wonderful writing implement

Ooooooh Yeeeees! And it is soooooooo practical! I carry one around all the time. Most people think it is part of my fashion accessories, but they are so surprised when I pull it out to sign something. It is a big hit at parent conferences!


Thanks David. I needed this humor today! :laugh:

[Boxcar]

I use an eagle feather. It is more patriotic that way...

[silvana]

I have a mickey mouse pen .....isnt that more patriotic Boxy?

[David]

an emu quill is more stylish( please refer to dsmms use of the emu quill) as its drapes across your shoulder so elegantly as you write.

[silvana]

David is it still elegant when all the little mites that live in feathers crawl out and bite you on the shoulder? ( Please refer to mites in feathers Wikipedia)

[Boxcar]

Ew. Shoulder lice! :(

[David]

whats worse ? a chip on your shoulder or lice.

[Boxcar]

You're right. You might get termites with a chip...

[silvana]

...however termites are vegetarian....mites are blood suckers!

[Boxcar]

You don't have to tent for mites though. Can you imagine how awkward walking around with a tent would be?

[dsmms]

I'm not sure about mites and emus, but I have read that possessing a eagle feather in the U.S. is illegal as it is a protected bird. Some native americans are exempt from this however. Boxcar???

[Boxcar]

Oh dear. I'd better hide my eagle feather boa!

[David]

Boxcar I have a range of emu feathers I can sell you to replace your eagle feathers ( Please refer to The Greatest Feathers In The World written and edited by David)

[Boxcar]

Do the mites cost extra?

[dsmms]

Oh my goodness! I just found out that "the quill of an emu feather is very tiny - you would never be able to use it to hold ink the way our ancestors did with goose or ostrich feathers. Emu feathers are used in fishing lures, clothing accents, fans, wall hangings, flower arrangements, hats and many other things.

Luuuuucy, you got some "splanin" to do!

[silvana]

Well well well so the mighty emu dun got no length!!!!! Wot u gonna say now Dave???????????

[Boxcar]

Hey...

They say size doesn't matter... Or does it... ;)

[David]

Exactly Boxcar.......after much research i have discovered that an emu feather can hold so much more ink than a finch feather.( Please refer to "Quill "..........the inside story of feather capacity)

[Boxcar]

Does it matter if the emu supplying the feathers is free-range? Do factory bred emus produce feathers that hold a different amount of ink? I prefer to be "green" when writing.

[dsmms]

Exactly Boxcar.......after much research i have discovered that an emu feather can hold so much more ink than a finch feather.( Please refer to "Quill "..........the inside story of feather capacity)

It may hold lots of ink, but it would be like writing with a wet piece of yarn, ya know what I mean??? :rofl:

[David]

I'm blushing dsmms and I don't even know why. How could pen length cause so much embarrassment?

[dsmms]

:idontknow:

[priyaanka]

Hi!
I have no idea about history and science teacher. I think it depends on who is teaching. But if you want a choice from me then I say history because it is easier than science. :waving:

[Maoman1]

Just remembered I had this. Anyways, it is time to restart this. So... Yahoo vs. Gmail vs. MSN.

[Teach Compassion]

Well, I use Gmail to create profiles online. I like the cost, and you get a free toaster everytime you make a new account! The tellers are so friendly, too! Why, once I was all sad because I got a ticket for not having my car inspected, you know, and the teller was like, Aw, Honey, you so sweet!

Lol!

How about this random topic of debate... Hope I dont upset anyone out there!
But J.K. Rowling is a mediocre writer at best! For the essence of true fantasy writing, one must look to J.R.R. Tolkein and Lewis Carroll!

[Picassa]

Normally I would agree with you TC with the following caveat...

Tolkien is for a more patient audience - not one so concerned with being gratified immediately.

I would say that the comparison is akin to Tolstoy vs. Dan Brown. I have enjoyed both in different contexts and for very different reasons.

But truly, when discussing reading, unless you are talking about Harlequin Romance any book is enriching.
Anyhoo my 2 cents...

[Ironmary]

True C.L and Tolkien are good writers, but J.K. Rowling is the best! J.K. Rowling has written our world with a twist, creating talking paintings, moving stair cases, and flo powder. After all, all us muggles need a little magic!

[hweber]

I could use a little of that magic right now to get everything done. How about one of those time changers? I agree, Rowling's got kids to read again - YEAH.

[herdgrad]

If you find the magic hweber would you please share???? I am terribly not with it right now.
I am not a fan of Rowling, however I agree with hweber that the kids seem to like it and want to read the books....so whatever works!!

[Teach Compassion]

Needless to say, a thing's popularity does not make it good or proper.

Here's a tough one...
Children should be taught about global warming, in a controlled, relaxed way of course, as early as first grade...

[maria.1]

Global warming is a very serious problem, but what about famine, child labour, poverty, racism and war ?

[SiobhanMarie]

I think it's very important to incorporate world issues into working with children, particularly early years. In Australia, we have access to curriculum resources for programs like refugee realities that are adaptable for all ages within the classroom, and I absolutely encourage the idea. If you don't put limits on what to expect from children (with understanding of capabilities for their ages) then you have a great chance of encouraging amazing achievements from them.

[miss_brittany]

I love "fluffy" books too. If I'm reading for entertainment, I want something sweet, light, and easy.

Between the two, I'd have to say mystery. I like Mary Higgins Clark. Her books are usually quite good.

lI ove Mary Higgins!!! Reading your posts, Boxcar, I think we have quite a bit in common!! Pretty sure that I have agreed w/ every comment u've ever given anybody. :) :waving:

[miss_brittany]

True C.L and Tolkien are good writers, but J.K. Rowling is the best! J.K. Rowling has written our world with a twist, creating talking paintings, moving stair cases, and flo powder. After all, all us muggles need a little magic!

So true! :laugh: