THANK YOU Carrie!!! I was just thinking the same thing. It all comes down to the expectations of the teacher and the experiences that we help to create for our kids. I believe so deeply in the abilities and "smart thinking" of my kids, and they always rise to the occasion. This year, I have really been trying to gradually release as much control to them as possible, and they are blowing me away! They take themselves so much farther and deeper into books through authentic conversations than I could have ever done with "sage on the stage" style instruction. Thanks to some really great mentor texts and wise colleagues, I haven't copied a single literature "packet" this year -- and my students are better because of it! Best of all, I can honestly say that ALL of my kids genuinely love to read and have a hunger for deep conversations about books. It's more than I could have ever imagined would be possible!! And, just to throw in another two-cents... I have the largest class that I've ever had and they are not a perfect group by any means. But, management has actually been so much easier this year (even easier than when I only had 15 kids). I'm not fighting to keep the kids engaged - they are intrinsically motivated to participate, be prepared, and engage in their own learning. (Not to say that we don't have issues - WE DO! But, I never have to fight kids to read or participate or be prepared for book discussions/conferences.) I would encourage anyone who is doubtful to allow themselves to seek inspiration from some great teachers (nationally recognized AND local), believe whole-heartedly in the great possibilities that may just be "lying in wait" inside of your students, and give things a try! Let your observations of your students, your intuition, and your own love of reading be your guide. And - we're all here if you have questions or need encouragement! Enjoy the journey!!! Amy Swan 3rd Grade Teacher Cedar Creek Elementary (913)780-7360 CHECK OUT OUR CLASS WEBPAGE!! http://teachers.olathe.k12.ks.us/~aswancc/
>>> "Carrie Cahill" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 11/20/2007 11:21 AM >>> I just wanted to respond to the message below. I don't want to leave this conversation with anyone thinking that struggling students - for whatever reason - can't engage in conversation. I completely believe they can! I haven't seen Caulkins' videos - but I have seen Cris Tovani and Stephanie Harvey's videos and those children are from some pretty tough backgrounds and they still (probably because of those backgrounds!!!) are able to relate to meaty topics in books and have great conversations. I have also seen Ellin Keene work with some tough kids - kids she never met before she sat down to work with them - and they did a fantastic job. I think Michele said it best a couple of posts ago - we have to MODEL, MODEL, MODEL and they WILL get it!!! Carrie K-8, Illinois Carrie, Sorry it took so long for me to respond to you. Wasn't Lucy great!!! I agree with you though. I have a "tough" group this year and I really can't see them involved in the conversations that we saw on her videos. That doesn't mean that I don't like the strategy. Thanks for the tip on the book. I will definitely check it out. Michele _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list Mosaic@literacyworkshop.org To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive. ********************************************************************** CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message is from the Olathe District Schools. The message and any attachments may be confidential or privileged and are intended only for the individual or entity identified above as the addressee. If you are not the addressee, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, you are not authorized to read, copy or distribute this message or any attachments. We ask that you please delete this message and any attachments and notify the sender by return email or by phone (913) 780-7000. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list Mosaic@literacyworkshop.org To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive.
