Time to share a success. I heard about whisper phones this summer through this listserv. As I began to Launch Writer's Workshop, students started coming to me asking how to spell everything. Of course for years I have been asking them to write down what they "hear". I'll admit I ended up doing most of the stretching-saying it slowly-prompting etc. Yesterday they whispered into the phones and the magic appeared right before my eyes. This year I moved up to 2nd grade and have 8 of my former 1st graders, 3 kids that could not write even initial sounds. Low and behold the letters appeared on their page, sounds beyond just initial letters. One new ELL student continued asking me how to spell a word. I redirected the phone towards his ear and told him to try it. He did it! The ELL teacher and I were jumping for joy as we watched once hesitant writers put sound to paper. A bonus is 24 students were working independently and quietly. I can't wait to try them out during Reader's Workshop. www.phonicsphone.org
Kate Swensen American Indian Magnet School 1075 E 3rd St. St. Paul, MN 55106 #651-778-3100 When I get a little money I buy books; and if any is left I buy food and clothes. ~Desiderius Erasmus _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list Mosaic@literacyworkshop.org To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org.
