As I greeted my Kindergarten students this morning-on their first day of their educational journey, I couldn't help but think about how important my job really is!
After reading the first two chapters in our textbook, I was glad to have some refreshers on information that I have learned in the past. I was also thrilled about learning a lot of new information. I'm really interested in learning about "Kidwatching" (Yetta Goodman). I like the idea of learning more from observing children in the daily life of the classroom. I look forward to investigating (Goodman) further and learning about this form of assessment.
On page 26 of Chapter 1-Allington was quoted: "Children learn to read by reading." As a teacher of our youngest students, attitude is key in learning and enjoying the gift of reading. During a read-aloud today, I gazed across the faces of my students-all I could see was enjoyment and motivation. All I could think was: "I've got them where I want them...now I'm going to teach them!" My wish for each of them, is to never lose the joy I could see on their faces as I read to them.
This course is going to really assist my learning on the specifics of reading assessment and how to focus my instruction. Let the learning begin!
I enjoyed reading your post. Reading is the key to better reading, thus enjoyment. This summer when we were taking another course I was tutoring a student who was entering 5th grade and reading at a mid second grade level. In that class (as well as this last chapter and your comment) I was reminded of how I need to help my students find books of their interest and their appropriate level to enjoy reading and continue practicing it. Then it doesnt feel like work. So I chose some at the level I had asses. him at. He read over 3 books that I chose him this summer. He said to me, "Wow Mrs. G these are good books, you should of had them in our library last year." I responded by saying, "Well, (blank) they were in the library last year you kept telling me you wouldnt like it." So he learned to try new things and that as long as its at his level he will enjoy it more. At the end of the summer he went up a whole grade level. Its still not proficient with his grade but that was such an improvement and I dont just mean the reading level but the fact he learned he could enjoy books and different types other than Diary of a Wimpy Kid (which he read ALL year). Thanks for sharing your great aha moment with us!
ReplyDeleteI have a serious amount of jealousy at the moment. By the time I get kids in reading intervention classes at the middle school level, that light of enjoyment has long faded from their eyes. Somewhere between your classroom and mine, the kids have become jaded, wary, and have no love left for reading. I do my best to rekindle it, and to recreate that confidence that they once had, but it is often difficult to undo such damage. I appreciate that both of you take the time to help kiddos succeed.
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