Daily 5 Chapter 1 Discussion
After you read chapter 1, reflect back on pages 4-6. "The Sisters" present two different pictures of their classrooms. In thinking about your classroom, how would you characterize your literacy block? Does it look more like the first or second scenario, or is it something in between? Please post your responses below.
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ReplyDeleteThe two scenarios presented in this chapter bring one word to mind, “convictions”. Just as I have certain convictions for my everyday life, I also have a set of convictions for my literacy block. Through my years of teaching, I have learned that a few good non-negotiables can set expectations which will help lead to the second example given in the book. During my literacy block, not every school day produced a calm classroom hum, complete independent learning, and few interruptions, but this was always the goal.
ReplyDelete•I believe students not only need, but deserve, a clam, quiet environment to concentrate and learn.
•I believe students need to learn how to work independently to become better problem solvers.
•Small group instruction happens every single day.
•I am off limits during conferencing or reading group time unless there is blood, fire, vomit or aliens.
•My time with each student is very valuable and each of them deserves my undivided attention.
•I believe all students deserve to be engaged in meaningful literacy activities that will help them become better readers, writers and thinkers.
•Read, read, read
First year teachers, as you reflect on your student teaching experience and read through these two books, I would encourage you to determine a few literacy block non-negotiables, and know how you are going to address these before your school year begins.
Veteran teachers, what are the “non-negotiables” during your literacy block? How do you set the stage for this right away? The list I made above was a great reminder to me of what I hold true as a literacy teacher.
I have found just a few minor compromises to my convictions can lead to major ones later. Stick to your GUNS!
Rhonda Lanie