improving student reading
DESCRIPTION
In this age of NCLB schools are scrambling for literacy programs that work. SSR is not rocket science, but so many teachers and schools insist on structuring reading, taking away choice, and expecting failing students to take books home and read. This offers an argument for in-school SSR. It costs nothing, is flexible, and works for all students. Note: There is a lot in the Powerpoint Notes section which does not translate, but you could figure it out from the slides themselves.TRANSCRIPT
What are you doing in your classroom that is more important
than students actually writing?
An Argument for Workshop Method
WillWork
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Why students will not write
• Do not see value in writing.• Nothing of interest to write about.• Competing interests: sports, video games,
friends…• Does not see connection between forms and
rules of writing and written expression of self. GUM is just rules.
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Why students cannot write
• Taking care of other family members.• Chores.• Shuttling from house to house.• Meetings: guidance; mentors; planning room; etc. that takes them out of
the classroom.• No study space at home.• No computer at home.• Wrong computer, computer program, unable to use computer or printer.• Lack of supplies.• Lack of modeling.• Lack of help at home with schoolwork.• No culture of homework completion.• No clear understanding of expectations.• Social and personal issues are distraction.• Missing skills.• Disability (IEP)• Different learning styles.
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No Homework
…or homework that is not dependant on much, such as:Sustained reading, skills work, review, etc.
Do work in class!
Sustained Silent WritingConferencingMini-lessons
Find the right tools to do the job
• Use/get old Pentium III with Open Source freeware.
• Journals and pencils.
• Create space.
Accountability
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Value(and for whom?)
Vs.
Appropriate?
Snot Vs.
Sports vs. Writing
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Enrichment• In class time and support.• Values writing.• Choice leaves mind
uninhibited.• Independent work allows
creativity.• Part of something larger.• Teacher helps improve.• Flexibility allows for
unlimited projects.• More choice for
afterschool time.
What are you doing in your classroom that is more important
than students actually writing?
An Argument for Workshop Method