I have decided that it really is not all that wrong to stay with one story for an extended period of time. I usually would push forward and skim the material and not focus on the process of learning. Let me explain...
My English II class has been working on "Contents of a Dead Man's Pocket" for a week and a half now- it would have been faster without my absences last week- and I am trying something new with the story. I used the predictions I discussed in the last blog to help with the next process.
The students folded a blank piece of paper (hot dog style) and titled the left half "My Predictions," and the right "What Really Happened?" We looked over the story, the new vocabulary, the photos, etc. I had them write about the first activity, the photos, and new vocabulary under My Predictions. Then we talked. I asked the students what they wrote and why. It was very interesting.
Then, I told them that I could not read aloud to them in the EOI Test or in any other exam like that, so we are going to practice reading silently for comprehension. I assigned a chunk of the story for them to read and told them once they finished reading, they needed to write a quick summary to explain what they read under the section "What Really Happened?" and then I told them to go for it.....amazingly, they did it! I have been so pleased with them! I was able to read along side them and write as well- once I finished mine, I walked around and looked at the work they were doing. Once everyone was finished, we talked about the reading, and kids who never really speak up had something to say! It was so cool to watch, and to be a part of the experience. I was able to call on kids to share their thoughts and they all had something that they had written down to share. Once we shared all that we had, I had them predict what would happen next. We had a small discussion and those that didn't have much written down added to their papers and we read another chunk again. I have taken 3 days so far, and we are almost finished with the story. I hope to have it completed by Tuesday, but if it takes to Wednesday, that is alright. I believe that I am teaching them and experiencing with them a stronger process for comprehension- and gaining a tool that they will be able to use across curriculum.
I am looking at other forms of MAX teaching to give them another tool to use for the reading process. I really do not feel that much has gone wrong with the activities other than pacing, I really like this process and will continue to use it as often as possible with other readings.
English III is finally falling into place. I have reverted and reached back to their fifth grade inner child by using cartoons and manipulatives to help them understand writing dialogue. I have seen them grow this week, and everyday, they are working. I believe with the exception of a couple of students, they liked the activities I have assigned. The ideas are more challenging than they look, and I believe they will be able to effectively use dialogue in their narrative writings. I was asked this week why we haven't written a full essay yet. I told the student that I did not feel like ready long poorly written essays from unprepared students- that building one paragraph into something better was much more manageable. I think we are close, and we will start the actual essay next Friday.
As far as Thursday morning went, I guess I just lost my cool when the student fully disrespected me. I believe it did make a difference. Another student told those that caused the issues to not push me that hard again. We will see if this lasts and if something positive came out of the experience.
On another front, I have been at the school late every single night. I needed to catch up with grading and lesson planning and... I am looking forward to my weekend for relaxing- though I plan to spend time cleaning my home and preparing for next week....yeah me!
No comments:
Post a Comment