Friday, March 7, 2008

Chapter 6 "Capitalize on the Reading-Writing Connection"

* Well, my class and I bit the bullet! We did a shared writing of a story titled "Revenge of the Mannequins." This was our first shared writing of a story and I was so into it. Students were engaged, excited, and we think our story is worth reading. To put it in the words of one of my students, "This is the best story I ever read!" Each day we reread the text we had created the day before, and as a result of that experience, I can see how rereading shared writing text can boost fluency.
* One thought I have after reading Chapter 6 is to try and work on some shared writing of expository text.
* I know that my students who spend time "practicing their craft" of independent reading are my better writers.
* I liked Appendix D (Understanding Nonfiction) and I plan to incorporate that into my Guided Reading groups.
* I have found with my 3rd graders that retelling in Guided Reading groups is easier than summarizing, and for many retelling is a challenge. We have seen this on our practice state reading assessments. The retelling questions are a challenge for 3rd graders. I would like to find some good strategies for teaching retelling to my students.
* The "Ask Worthwhile Questions" on page 136 were good.

3 comments:

Mrs. Voth said...

Julie,

I also enjoyed reading your shared writing that you did with your students. The one day that I walked in and you were writing, I could feel the energy and enthusiasm that you and the students had towards your story.

I also appreciate your advice and support when it comes to writing.

I'll look forward to reading your next shared writing piece.

Stephanie

PHuston said...

Julie, I applaud you shared writing success! I also like Appendix D for Nonfiction, because it gives a guide for groups to work with.
On retelling, our district reading series has retelling cards that have pictures of the story the students use to retell the story. They work very well. I think you could make your own,(copy the pictures or illustrations from the book). The students put the picture in order and also retell the story as they do.

Sillin Spotlights said...

Well I'm intrigued about your story by the title!
We incorporated a shared writing that included our DARE officer. They were proud of it and anxious to share with him. The students are excited when we are excited! It sounds like your students were very proud!!!