1.) Three essential components for struggling readers can be represented using a barstool. 1) Developmental Reading Instruction 2) Study Support/ Tutoring 3) Classroom Learning Strategies If any of these were missing the stool (reading program) would fail.
2.) There have been many national efforts in the last decade that have focused on the literacy and learning needs of adolescents, Including: The Striving Readers program and Standards for literacy coaches. There is a larger focus on teacher development rather than the focus on students. (pg. 8)
3.) Two integral aspects of the Striving Readers Program is that it include school-level strategies that increase reading achievement of all students and provide professional development in literacy for teachers across the curriculum and interventions targeted for those who struggle the most in reading. (pg.8)
1.) One way to implement content from this chapter is to develop a plan with your principal to continue to enroll in professional development opportunities so that we can keep up to date with all new information whether we use it or not. It is always best to know what is out there and what the possibilities are.
2.) Another way to implement this is in the class is to get things that motivate the students to read. It would be best to do it through book selection within your own classroom library. We know that reading is a life long process thanks to the book, now we need to get our readers to become life long readers and that starts with building positive connections with reading.
1.) What are some ways that we can approach our principals about wanting to implement more strategies rather just content readings? I know it will be rough especially with testing subject years but it needs to be done in order to continue to achieve.
You have so much to apply in your classroom. Most of these strategies can be adapted and applied. Some of the strategies are domain specific (like math or science) but all are important for life-long learners.
ReplyDeleteWith the new bill being passed by the Oklahoma legislature, literacy at the middle/high schools level is a requirement. These teachers will be looking for effective ways to increase the comprehension (notice I did not say reading) skills to make sure all students are doing better in literacy.
I know your faculty will come to you for ideas. I know your principal will look to you for leadership. I know you will be eager to help all of your students.
Question: First of all the law makes it easier to approach the principal. Second, Also soon, another new law, will grade schools A,b,c, etc. If your school has a low grade, the principal will be looking for ways to make the grade better. OF course, testing will be one facet of the grade. If you can persuade him/her that a few of these will make all the difference in the world. The first stress should be on the before, during, and after and the use of strategies in each step. The second is the stress on the processes of reading and writing and each is not a race but an adventure. The next is the role of writing within the lesson. And there are many more stresses. Just start with three and add onto that.