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Those of us who use the matrix will, as sure as the sun rises, experience “hooks”. Hooks are part of what comes into your life when you are struggling or chugging along. They are invitations to come to our  senses  or seek the seeming shelter and safety of avoiding unwanted internal experiencing. Whichever way you go hooks just keep coming at you.

So what is a hook? Here are some familiar scenarios:

Being stuck in a traffic jam on the way to work.

Not having enough books for reading group.

Faculty meetings

The student with the “I ain’t doin’ this!” look on his face.

History/Math/Science/English class (either students or teachers can pick one, two or all)

When hooks show up you can feel the pull of the hook inside of you, the twist in your gut, the flash of anger or frustration, the urge to move, yell or flee. You can  feel the lure of the hook as unwanted thoughts or sensations, invite you to spend time with them. When you “take the bait” you are hooked. You pay more attention to the unwanted stuff and less to what is going on around you. Things can get sticky and heavy since hooks don’t care where you are going.

So what do we do with them?

Read more

This is a clip about getting curiosity and learning going with stuck students.

Pay close attention to the first question. Dr Polk asked this the first time I was shown the matrix. There is no telling where curiosity will take you!

As teachers and students head back to you know where, here is a taste of how to use the matrix in the classroom. You can also find a more detailed walkthrough in my starter manual. Have Fun!