tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24701323188706222032024-03-05T17:45:33.745-08:00Reading by HeartHelp your struggling readers learn to read! Reading intervention tips for upper grade and adult readers. Dyslexia? Reluctant reader?
Ideas. Support. Success.Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-19451249761450169422021-07-29T18:02:00.007-07:002023-09-09T20:20:18.510-07:00How To Start Your Year Decoding GIGANTIC Words<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWj-n9-mounRcVOka4g9a-RxtP9aBKVHUT6zj198qJIVkCH6TMywV1Xsf6nak32lXPnJC9tzFWdfdRzOr9BnB9nULPgw8mJ_Zqq0JNjQcnT4yRwCzpfKk69EizzoSbwC9reN6f3fXZaSrN/w640-h308/how-to-start-your-year-decoding-big-wods.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><center style="text-align: left;">Your readers will LOVE decoding gigantic multisyllabic words. Here are 2 strategies to help your readers go big in their reading this year. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><span></span><span><br /></span></center><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><h2><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 700;">SPOT THE SMALL WORDS</span></li></ul></h2></center></h2><center style="text-align: left;">Teach your readers to SPOT THE SMALL WORDS inside big words. In the word <b><i>diminished,</i></b> readers can see the small word <i><b>"in."</b></i> Readers who know the word <i><b>"dim"</b></i> will also spot <i><b>"dim."</b></i></center><center style="text-align: left;"><i><b><br /></b></i></center><center style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaq7z0de30kn-POcx2rqzhMhbaY9ZVofwiixudGah8R9B8vrsJrM9u2yaxgoDgVg5AqxJX_6b8ojW0Kv99aY8RRgvzQ56fZ8ePlIuu9CVGT9Qjh6hHbg304qVbMFUIHoyY9-x3IHpou9V/s720/decoding-tip-multisyllabic-words.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaq7z0de30kn-POcx2rqzhMhbaY9ZVofwiixudGah8R9B8vrsJrM9u2yaxgoDgVg5AqxJX_6b8ojW0Kv99aY8RRgvzQ56fZ8ePlIuu9CVGT9Qjh6hHbg304qVbMFUIHoyY9-x3IHpou9V/s320/decoding-tip-multisyllabic-words.png" width="320" /></a></div></center><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><h2><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 700;">NOTICE PREFIXES AND SUFFIXES</span></li></ul></h2></center></h2><center style="text-align: left;">Teach readers to notice prefixes and suffixes. In <b><i>diminishe</i></b><i><b>d</b></i>, readers can see the suffixes<i><b>"ish"</b></i> and <i><b>"ed."</b></i></center><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><h2><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 700;">VOILA!</span></li></ul></h2></center></h2><center style="text-align: left;">A ten-letter word - overwhelming to many struggling readers - is now just a four-part word, made up of parts readers may already know!</center><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><h2><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 700;">HELP YOUR STUDENTS EXPLORE BIG WORDS</span></li></ul></h2></center></h2><center style="text-align: left;">Select multisyllabic words that contain small words and/or prefixes, suffixes, roots. Help your readers see the parts they know inside the big words. I like to circle the parts.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><h2 style="text-align: center;"><center style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/READING-INTERVENTION-BINDER-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-EXPLOREAWORD-100-BUNDLE-2570912" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbVuT88-1zWcc3rqfdcQw738kVKdIQg-uvF0hdmegb83uQ0OpNSWq6_L6b4Ky-nN1LXce52wkZcknEKYJTsvGG3nENd-uVGXaTiXabSWCZa8Ut_SLP5JydR_JlMdlr0c7hNB2uWPJbSN9/s320/Slide3.jpeg" /></a></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/READING-INTERVENTION-BINDER-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-EXPLOREAWORD-100-BUNDLE-2570912" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSMNcOtczwEitokrPmSV9bCTAEo8jqE-pfTNcySyX_zz4iVsmqLFovYNNG8UrAYsG0NZ6CaR7zj8rf-WU7iwX_mgMRvTsTUmuznCaYEeo8jM2TtoF6Cnb91eudjyklgg7dB9HftFTDADy/s320/explore-a-word-decoding-multisyllabic-words-print-digital+4.png" /></a></div><br /><center style="text-align: left;"><br /><br /></center></h2></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>TEACH READERS HOW TO RECOGNIZE AND PRONOUNCE PREFIXES & SUFFIXES</li></ul></center></h2><center style="text-align: left;">For readers who don't already know how to recognize and pronounce all the prefixes, suffixes and root/base words they'll encounter in gigantic words - a systematic, targeted, explicit, scaffolded intervention program will teach them all the word parts they'll need to know!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/DECODE-MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-SOR-SCIENCE-OF-READING-INTERVENTION-ESSENTIALS-BUNDLE-2566921" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1042" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDdr41QzimNIZ4ey-LY0R20sbASDQbRHYZlmUtNd_0H_LaYhKxUEpftfVVKJkCAqnM4qft-ZDqAYQf_64tmHv6eqKb0zzSRRuj6axJDakjz7nbBHs9Hwz4hd402zBqZVN2In2fEf3ZkB3ONQSysSTjODNEp_PXuA9e2hWi_V1u5CQlvbCXbR7sHAJF8Pli/w653-h480/DECODING%20MULTISYLLABIC%20WORDS%20ESSENTIALS%20KIT%20PIC.png" width="653" /></a></div><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year, introduce your readers to big, gigantic, multisyllabic words - and watch their confidence and excitement grow!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2><center style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ur_uFKq-B0LXj6yrCmcBejNxeqlX7wwA/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pE9LqnM2N574UwvMClual-5AtaBF0a8sle7n5SCv1Zj9wpj0dHwRF5M_1Vc69uu1EcBI4Idxcjg2LbipL87xbxy7Vx-_q3G3qRnycsGO-B3l-kMs9vOkQrLqCLz9fKdkv0-zQHOH0UvB/w640-h426/free-reading-intervention-decoding-multisyllabic-words.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></center></h2><h2><center style="text-align: left;">DOWNLOAD THE COLLECTION OF FREEBIES AND RESOURCES <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ur_uFKq-B0LXj6yrCmcBejNxeqlX7wwA/view?usp=sharing"><span style="color: #bf9000;">HERE!</span></a></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ur_uFKq-B0LXj6yrCmcBejNxeqlX7wwA/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKt3TuJB8alcV3D7FMJtWdKqBh5n2MRyQ1RIRz3-cYouwT4yXZR5zUCgVG29UZFKS2riQCMA_BT-ldeYHUPwGwW3n7QKDUJ7ZRo3_QcEx7IxHMdsLbriHN8yXhI1EYFY8mum7523tVwrG/w640-h426/back-to-school-free-resources.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;">HAPPY READING!</h2><h2><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; text-align: center;"><center style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></center><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; text-align: center;"><center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center></div></div></h2></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span></div><!--end InLinkz code-->
<!--start InLinkz code-->
<div class="inlinkz-widget" data-uuid="dd5757974ebf438eb9c9020059f6da55" style="background-color: #eceff1; border-radius: 7px; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 30px 0px; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;"><p style="margin-bottom: 15px;">You are invited to the <strong>Inlinkz</strong> link party!</p>
<a href="https://fresh.inlinkz.com/p/dd5757974ebf438eb9c9020059f6da55" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(32, 156, 238); border-radius: 4px; color: #efefef; padding: 5px 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Click here to enter</a></div></div>
<span style="display: none;"><script async="true" src="https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=a8b40ada7693d64e5923"></script></span>
<!--end InLinkz code-->Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-17268283295892872682019-12-12T05:00:00.008-08:002021-07-26T18:00:58.840-07:00The Amazing Power of Floor Maps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo19ZBKPP3bP9e9DWBy3aKTrCmbi106g45abSCiplF2U3ovxMTwI_I1Ixk8kU5K5vDxuwq83lxa6XZ5q0qG6HrIWtoeU-JkU03rllxuUvpIHGpKhJe06WP1-CSV8IspOk3uWOVLzqSg2ne/s1350/map-studies-floor-puzzles-how-why.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo19ZBKPP3bP9e9DWBy3aKTrCmbi106g45abSCiplF2U3ovxMTwI_I1Ixk8kU5K5vDxuwq83lxa6XZ5q0qG6HrIWtoeU-JkU03rllxuUvpIHGpKhJe06WP1-CSV8IspOk3uWOVLzqSg2ne/w640-h309/map-studies-floor-puzzles-how-why.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Giant Floor Map Puzzles are one of my favorite teaching tools in upper elementary! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For many years my biggest struggle teaching social studies was all the things my students didn't know about the WHERE. <span><a name='more'></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"What country do you live in? What city? What continent? Is Paris a country or a city?" It didn't matter what question I asked, they often looked at me blankly.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><span></span><div style="text-align: left;">I tried everything I could think of - the tried and true: maps to label and color in, appeal to the senses: mnemonics and chants - and more. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">I worked hard all year each year to make sure my kids left me literate in the simple basics of their own geography. But the results were far less successful than I hoped. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
UNTIL I brought out the large floor map puzzles. My upper grades kids loved them! They begged for floor map puzzle time. But most important - all of a sudden, they were able to answer my questions about the world, and their place in it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
HOW TO USE GIANT FLOOR MAP PUZZLES</h3>
</center>
<center>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I started with a single puzzle that I used as a rotation activity. It was so successful, I eventually collected enough floor map puzzles so my whole class could work on them at the same time. </div>
</center>
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
WHAT KINDS OF PUZZLES?</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<br />My idea was to have a collection of as many different puzzle stations as possible. I collected world maps, country maps, with some specialized maps thrown in for fun (puzzle maps of the solar system, national parks, etc.) </center>
<br />
<h3>
MOST IMPORTANT: WORLD AND COUNTRY MAPS</h3>
<br />
The big ticket items are the world and country maps, as those address the important geography skills I want to target. I like to have 3 country maps and 3 world maps available and want groups to work with these frequently. Though I mix in novelty maps to keep things interesting, it's the world and country maps that make the difference in their knowledge of the world. It's important to make sure students have lots of time with these main maps.<br />
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/710Omd7p5YL._SL1000_.jpg" /></center>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
HOW MANY PUZZLES?</h3>
<br />
One puzzle for 3-5 students works well. For a class of around 25, I like to have about 6 large puzzles. I often add a few small desk puzzles in case a student needs the quiet of working alone for a bit. <br />
<br />
<h3>
HOW MUCH TIME FOR FLOOR MAPS?</h3>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I soon discovered how much my students loved working on the map puzzles and how much they were benefitting. <br />
<br />
So, I schedule the map sessions into our geography lessons - and also integrate them into our regular routine all year. I keep our floor maps handy, and whenever we have some extra time, or need a quick break, or time to relax, we pull them out.<br />
<br />
You can do floor maps for a quick single rotation (when the groups have completed one map, we pack up) or have your groups rotate through 2 or 3 maps in a session. (Groups work on their map until it's complete, then put it away and get another map from the pile. You will need more maps than groups for this system to work.) <br />
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
FLOOR MAP MANAGEMENT</h3>
I set the basic ground rules: stay with your group, keep focused on the task, talk quietly, etc. The engagement is always high, so management isn't usually an issue. If interest starts to wane on a particular day, I wrap things up after just one rotation. <br />
<br />
As the groups put together their puzzles, I walk around passing out $1 bills to engaged workers. (I usually have a classroom economy.) Walking around, observing and interacting is an important component of floor map management. <br />
<br />
Something that boosted learning even more was when I let them know I was paying those I overheard saying the names of the (country, state, etc.)<br />
<br />
I wanted to hear, "I found Japan." or "Here's Louisiana!" as I walked around. Why is that so important? Seeing the shape and size of the puzzle pieces, touching and putting them in their places, and speaking the names is very powerful learning. </div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
NOVELTY MAPS</h3>
Though the main goal is working on the world and country, I like to include some specialized maps thrown in for fun, just to spice things up in the rotation and keep their interest. These novelty maps can be puzzle maps of the solar system, national parks - whatever you can find. You can even have a personalized aerial-view jigsaw map made of your school's hometown!<br />
<br />
<h3>
NOVELTY MAPS: </h3>
<h3>
THE SOLAR SYSTEM, WOODEN & MAGNETIC MAPS</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<img height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81EE0gVjirL._SL1500_.jpg" width="640" /></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<img height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71L0ZjFZqaL._SL1000_.jpg" width="640" /></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<h3>
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71qq5AG5eCL._SL1001_.jpg" /></h3>
</center>
<h3>
NOVELTY MAPS: JIGSAW PUZZLES & GLOBE PUZZLES </h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
One type of novelty map my kids really loved was globe puzzles. These and other <i>jigsaw</i> puzzles, however, take MUCH more time than is available in a single map puzzle session. This presents logistics issues. How to find enough time to devote to letting your students finish the puzzle? If you teach more than one class, how to keep the puzzle preserved for the next class - over a period of days? If your classroom space is limited, how to find a place to store the partially-completed puzzle? For this reason, I save these puzzles for <i>rare</i> occassions and only bring them out as a special treat when I'm prepared to cope with the logistics.</div>
<div>
<br />
<center style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81TLUWQeB3L._SL1500_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81TLUWQeB3L._SL1500_.jpg" /></a><img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81UePPJXKjL._SL1500_.jpg" /></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<h3>
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81mJwt-QI2L._SL1500_.jpg" style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81mJwt-QI2L._SL1500_.jpg" width="640" /></a><center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
</h3>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
WHERE TO FIND FLOOR PUZZLE MAPS</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
You can order a nice variety from Amazon. I also found many floor puzzle maps at my local teacher supply store - before it went out of business. I found a small, state jigsaw puzzle I was able to buy in quantity from my local dollar store. </center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING PUZZLE MAPS</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
The MOST IMPORTANT thing to look for when choosing a floor puzzle is: do the pieces correspond to the actual countries or states? "Pieces Shaped Like Countries!" in the puzzle in the first picture above says it all. That's what you're looking for. Some puzzles cut their pieces randomly, with many countries or states lumped together. Be sure to select puzzles that, instead, have pieces cut out for the countries or states individually. <br /><br />The reason this is so important: the power of the floor map puzzle play is seeing, touching, saying the name of and placing the <i>individually</i> shaped country or state. </center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
A map big enough for a group of students to cluster around is also important. </center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
HAPPY PUZZLING!</center>
</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<center style="text-align: left;">
Floor puzzle maps can be an important tool to help you meet the basic geography knowledge goals you've set for your students.<br /><br />Happy puzzling!</center>
</center>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<center style="text-align: left;">
P.S.</center>
</center>
</h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<center style="text-align: left;">
Be sure to check out <i>some of our other</i> favorite things for upper elementary teachers!</center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-9bd3ff12-7fff-e38a-f411-eb2c4bd9a990"><br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://thelittleladybugshop.com/the-polar-express-a-favorite-holiday-book/?fbclid=IwAR0qxbPr5NrTOvPXdzv6rK1PTwEWpAswqik7Vf5lGU5HjtXv7ArEo-NZ_bc" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Polar Express Holiday Book</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Little Ladybug Shop</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/12/3-meaningful-reading-activities-for.html?fbclid=IwAR3H9bQv0HZ9LxRRWihfTwyU8rHiuLofU8yv3g5TvlRTlQRC0m9pF_zI2lQ" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #edf4ff; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Meaningful Reading Activities with Henry's Freedom Box</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">// Think Grow Giggle</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/12/favorite-classroom-tool.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Favorite Classroom Tool </span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">// Tried & True Teaching Tools</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/12/12/best-cardboard-cutting-tools/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Favorite Cardboard Cutting Tools</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Feel-Good Teaching</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
</span></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-5dc2f984-7fff-af66-b030-f47522a4caea"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 737px; overflow: hidden; width: 492px;"><img height="737" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nj4pDVaQ6e6Z4AN7a_vQPti3TndMFgX-e2dwsnGjiy-qSCFhylP3Sr6yH1fP1UpL3XFdX4NXbNL2pMQiOfmIZXOKK26stoFV6DyZp5czqP3LahxH9grVzz2Qv5y0D9tMKlUHNooz" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="492" /></span></span></span></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
<center>
</center>
</div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-53977320107575512992019-07-11T05:00:00.015-07:002021-07-26T18:00:19.543-07:00First Day of School QUICK TIP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXXXRdG3V4F5AddOWjU4dBB0-Wx3iEEjbwItG-eQs-h5hFuw0Zhj8UAtINfySTYuQxTWa8lcwTQdCSThbV5kyANw4l1F5ETKRtfGOPchx_ntNxh7SCFdOjA1QNfqqQfQJw8blmflJS7E9/s1350/first-day-of-school-learning-names-quick-tip.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXXXRdG3V4F5AddOWjU4dBB0-Wx3iEEjbwItG-eQs-h5hFuw0Zhj8UAtINfySTYuQxTWa8lcwTQdCSThbV5kyANw4l1F5ETKRtfGOPchx_ntNxh7SCFdOjA1QNfqqQfQJw8blmflJS7E9/s16000/first-day-of-school-learning-names-quick-tip.jpg" /></a></div></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Knowing your students' names on the first day is gold! <span><a name='more'></a></span></div>
<br />
Taking the time to learn students names is a powerful management tool that can start you off on a positive footing. <span></span><div><br /></div><div>When your teacher knows your name, your level of personal accountability rises dramatically. Even more important - when your teacher knows your name, chances are, you feel seen and respected. What a great way to start the year! </div><div><br /></div><div>When my new fifth graders understand I know all their names on the first day, I've both gained and given a valuable measure of respect and even mystique.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But how to learn so many names at once?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here’s the strategy I use.</div>
<h3>
The Strategy</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I start the day by giving an instruction to my new students as they look at me wondering, “Who is this new teacher and how is our year going to go?” I tell them that at the end of the day I want <i>them</i> to give<i> me</i> <i>a test.</i> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Their eyes get large and they draw a collective breath. Things just got interesting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then I set to work learning their names as we go about the rest of our first-day-of-school activities. </div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Name Tag</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First step - I provide each student a name card for their desk, a name tag, or name badge on a lanyard. </div>
<h3>
Tell Me How to Say Your Name</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I ask them to say their name and let me know if I’m saying it correctly as I repeat it after them - and make a note if there’s a name I need help to remember.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As we go through the day, I look at each student and silently repeat their names three or four at a time. I can often be seen muttering their names under my breath. </div>
<h3>
Seating Chart</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I test myself secretly as I scribble names into an empty seating chart. I take paricular note of any names I’m having trouble with. I use mnemonics of any kind to help me remember - red hair/Raul, friends with Jessi, etc. </div>
<h3>
100% Non-negotiable</h3>
<div>
More than anything, I know that I MUST pass this test with 100% success. Passing the test with 100% never fails to impress - on the first day!<br />
<br />
But the real reason I have to get 100% is that I know I can't let a single student suffer the public embarrassment of being the only one whose name I can't remember. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So I study hard and only invite them to test me when I know I’m ready. I repeat their names over and over. I pay particular attention to anyone I have a tendency to falter on. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the time I'm ready to publicly pass my test (and impress my charges) - my bonding with my new group is on its way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click through to find more Back-to-School activities and freebies to help build relationships from the first day of school!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b id="docs-internal-guid-d7e298de-7fff-0ce2-012e-9e6257a54ac4" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span id="docs-internal-guid-bdc23d5e-7fff-a756-be80-4618815d0901"><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img height="1051" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i2GM3l3ew64h6UlMajK4Pl5TYvrxqjQm26Gs4GSMpXh8QnMxeU-2yq6NbHsA9BwbtwEHo-IJerFw296U08o7xJHEHRM6g2kI9o_nkv1-tKOvbXo7A9v_5KeRImtpjuqr8ZxjLoUX" style="border: none;" width="701" /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://samsonsshoppe.blogspot.com/2019/06/building-personal-relationships-with.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Building Personal Relationships with Your Students on the First Day of School</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> //</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Samson’s Shoppe</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/07/how-to-get-to-know-students-as-workers.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How to Get to Know Your Students as Workers and Partners</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Think Grow Giggle</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/07/learn-your-students-names-on-first-day.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Learn Your Students’ Names on the First Day of School </span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">// Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/first-day-of-school-relationships/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">First Day of School Relationships</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Mikey D Teach</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/07/11/get-to-know-your-students-with-4cs-of-engineering/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Get to Know Your Students with the 4 C's of Engineering</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Kerry Tracy</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
</div>Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-5728444176310711542019-06-06T05:00:00.021-07:002021-07-26T16:52:42.718-07:00Decoding Independence QUICK TIP <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmj-RKjiad_c2n_B6Y6VFb3F1z5ZBAEbEfsI4mcbu6hXQRXcPAYJZArOF-G4sBdRzUnswoSZWDVFsyqcN4zqhYqOQP9loeGHN2mFrqKbwkJa6bS_eR_A-lJKSWBOP88dd2XiFxJxu4aYsp/s1350/decoding-strategy-tip-white-board.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmj-RKjiad_c2n_B6Y6VFb3F1z5ZBAEbEfsI4mcbu6hXQRXcPAYJZArOF-G4sBdRzUnswoSZWDVFsyqcN4zqhYqOQP9loeGHN2mFrqKbwkJa6bS_eR_A-lJKSWBOP88dd2XiFxJxu4aYsp/s16000/decoding-strategy-tip-white-board.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Looking for a quick tip to help your readers become independent decoders?<br />
Teach them to use a personal white board as they read!<span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br />
If your readers keep a small personal white board at their side while reading, they can jot down any word they're struggling with. Teach them to "operate on" the word. Many long words can be demystified simply by looking at them to see what readers already know.<span></span><br />
<h3>
Write It Out</h3>
For example, if a reader is stuck on the word "impressive," writing it out shows us this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrj6k1khxD0a8i5TR04tLTJXTl1VlOw1dc9TOjXdiqgXJ-Dr-_zxqENH2kMahKIoNCNIanhRdnvtoa4H0WSsycFLfnNCUaNUKOd2j9GRJbI4-HGy49cRhGu037kbUbNJsn_Jvqne6PO6i6/s1600/white+board+pic+impressive.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1044" height="461" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrj6k1khxD0a8i5TR04tLTJXTl1VlOw1dc9TOjXdiqgXJ-Dr-_zxqENH2kMahKIoNCNIanhRdnvtoa4H0WSsycFLfnNCUaNUKOd2j9GRJbI4-HGy49cRhGu037kbUbNJsn_Jvqne6PO6i6/s640/white+board+pic+impressive.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The middle of the word has a smaller word we can recognize - "press." The beginning of the word has a word part we know - "im." The end of the word has a word part we know - "ive."<br />
<br />
Instead of ten letters to sound out, the reader now just needs to sequence three parts - im, press, ive. Voila!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Support Tips</h3>
<div>
I make sure my readers know all the parts they'll need to recognize (like "im" and "ive") in order for them to identify the parts when they see them in words.<br />
<br />
I teach these parts as I would sight words. I use the same methods and strategies as I would to teach sight words - games, activities, flashcards, printables.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGHPWjEYxzWelux1d3athNM4I3wbOURdgG55KKsoLle7VxMbZEy9NVLkqSaCnsSUKkRcvoNKheW6SUVbe_3JjrqxaWYEbLRBnZvheut-XTnR46Cu9-mipsV9XUIh13XrQw7m2vZmSZ5df/s1600/decoding-multisyllabis-words+trackers.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="631" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGHPWjEYxzWelux1d3athNM4I3wbOURdgG55KKsoLle7VxMbZEy9NVLkqSaCnsSUKkRcvoNKheW6SUVbe_3JjrqxaWYEbLRBnZvheut-XTnR46Cu9-mipsV9XUIh13XrQw7m2vZmSZ5df/s320/decoding-multisyllabis-words+trackers.jpg" width="162" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-e8xeMP9dgqPXbkIPmtQ1T5DBE_MyBBvqwYpddcvsMBnvryRh1ikwjQex13kqJANpJxD7WUXuyVJ4eWS4Cgx2rp95ssz_sry9u9PxwIBx3wVrF-uxmrnES_vxmUz3FBuvwewvpDCs9Lkh/s1600/Ddecoding-multisyllabic-words-flashcards+homemade.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-e8xeMP9dgqPXbkIPmtQ1T5DBE_MyBBvqwYpddcvsMBnvryRh1ikwjQex13kqJANpJxD7WUXuyVJ4eWS4Cgx2rp95ssz_sry9u9PxwIBx3wVrF-uxmrnES_vxmUz3FBuvwewvpDCs9Lkh/s320/Ddecoding-multisyllabic-words-flashcards+homemade.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
To teach the "sight parts", you can make up flashcards, bingo games, or tic tac toe and more! If you'd like premade activities, flashcards, games and printables, plus student progress trackers and other assessments created to save you time, you can find them <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TIC-TAC-TOE-Word-Parts-Word-Study-Activity-3861076">HERE</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-WORD-PARTS-GAME-BOARDS-2561219">HERE</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TRACKERS-SETS-1-47-WORD-PARTS-RECORDING-BOOK-BUNDLE-3719333">HERE</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart/Category/-3-FLASHCARDS-320878">HERE</a>, and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart/Category/-0-COMPLETE-PROGRAM-324268">HERE</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TIC-TAC-TOE-Word-Parts-Word-Study-Activity-3861076"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TIC-TAC-TOE-Word-Parts-Word-Study-Activity-3861076" height="200" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TIC-TAC-TOE-Word-Parts-Word-Study-Activity-3861076-1538332446/original-3861076-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-WORD-PARTS-RAINBOW-FLASHCARDS-SETS-1-47-BUNDLE-3717516"><img alt="Decoding Multisyllabic Words WORD PARTS FLASHCARDS RAINBOW" height="200" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-WORD-PARTS-FLASHCARDS-RAINBOW-SETS-21-47-3709409/large-3709409-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-BINGO-Word-Parts-Study-4098711"><img alt="Decoding Multisyllabic Words BINGO Word Parts Study" height="200" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-WORD-PARTS-BINGO-4098711-1538814220/original-4098711-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<br />
<h3>
DIY White Boards</h3>
<div>
If you don't have personal white boards for each of your readers - laminate pages, half pages or bookmark-sized strips! Or place white paper in page protectors and use dry erase markers. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-INDEPENDENT-DECODE-A-WORD-MATS-2566921">HERE</a> is a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-INDEPENDENT-DECODE-A-WORD-MATS-2566921">FREE</a> set of student mats you can laminate for your readers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-INDEPENDENT-DECODE-A-WORD-MATS-2566921"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7-tKpiJlrE1Ht0QgQocYn1tYw4HBmJ6sJoWELSy-stS1qbQyqU8K7tlVIaqTV4bEJSy8sw8TJSSoFRVmLC_nIGL1wOKos84pJHy37b688CnE1R-VkXe7zJqTuTSiyIjcgx179rtQ9YEX/s400/decoding-multisyllabic-words+Mat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Your readers will LOVE the feeling of independence they get from decoding their own words as they read!</div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<br />
<h3>
But wait! There's more!</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img height="431" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/NqY4SXtQwCGlD2Oh0rKFfVcUoIvM1Sw_QHq_eld49sO5r38jpCKL1fwwdLbdJH5vpg5pNkA-CmEc_nhtA0c8VKq292b7_vleCstozXI3_rwpQNUpKvVCtwIjp3l8RgkPOZ39HH9r" style="border: none;" width="287" /></span></div>
Check out these additional tips for upper elementary! Click on the advice and grab free reflection tools, checklists, questionnaires, and more! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kerry Tracy of Feel-Good Teaching says, </span><a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/06/06/advice-for-teachers/" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"Take the time to reconnect with your calling to get you through the rough patches!"</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kathie Yonemura of Tried & True Teaching Tools says, </span><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/06/find-your-teacher-tribe.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;">“Find your teacher tribe!”</a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tammy of Tarheelstate Teacher says, "</span><a href="https://www.tarheelstateteacher.com/blog/teacher-reflection-process" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the end of the school year, reflect on your favorite lessons and experiences. Consciously plan to take what worked into the upcoming school year.</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tanya Yero Teaching says </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.tanyayeroteaching.com/helping-parents-understand-their-childs-ability/" style="text-decoration: none;">“Parent conferences are an excellent way to bridge the gap between school and home, but they can sometimes be a hard discussion to have. Here are six tips that will help you conduct successful, yet truthful parent conferences.”</a></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brittany Hege of Mix and Math says, </span><a href="http://www.mixandmath.com/blog/classroom-management-with-chants" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Incorporate call and response chants as part of your classroom management...It will work </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">for</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> you and is fun for students!”</span></a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jeanine Schneider of Think Grow Giggle says, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/06/how-to-advice-for-building-positive.html" style="text-decoration: none;">“The time spent building student relationships is the best time you will spend all year!”</a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> <br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
<span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLx4joJTQoICfL-MfkzZPUCwiFPs_3g0Qyr3rUEZJ629u7m7ds5jG2USjRXi6Pv5k98dPmyA0kYrf6asFMAyEI-huR_clTls7NBU4COUzJMZfbd-LjUDnANmY3St6O9xZScbQysKLdUyno/s720/decoding-tip-multisyllabic-words.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLx4joJTQoICfL-MfkzZPUCwiFPs_3g0Qyr3rUEZJ629u7m7ds5jG2USjRXi6Pv5k98dPmyA0kYrf6asFMAyEI-huR_clTls7NBU4COUzJMZfbd-LjUDnANmY3St6O9xZScbQysKLdUyno/s320/decoding-tip-multisyllabic-words.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-75843550321103671202019-05-02T05:00:00.005-07:002021-07-26T16:55:36.122-07:00WORD WORK End-of-Year CELEBRATION <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5yvsO1FHTapH9O6Sf0EETlvm2j6yTKflmsER-bnl-HGNaOF95odO5wU6IxZTZsisY-TyFvWqdiD3QM_o9EFveK8A6PLcAiwPcGeClZLu6oh9oMBVgFknZaWM_5DU8UovbO0jSZeKGK9b/s1350/word-work-end-of-year-celebration.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5yvsO1FHTapH9O6Sf0EETlvm2j6yTKflmsER-bnl-HGNaOF95odO5wU6IxZTZsisY-TyFvWqdiD3QM_o9EFveK8A6PLcAiwPcGeClZLu6oh9oMBVgFknZaWM_5DU8UovbO0jSZeKGK9b/s16000/word-work-end-of-year-celebration.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Looking for a way to wrap up your WORD WORK year?<br />
End of the year is a great time for CELEBRATIONS!<br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br />
Celebrations are an important component of Progress Monitoring. In the final days and weeks of a school year or intervention cycle we collect data to assess our students' progress.<br />
<br />
In addition to the numbers and statistics of our Data Collection, we take this time to <i>celebrate</i> our students' growth.<br />
<br />
End-of-Year WORD WORK Wrap-Up Activity - a Freebie<br />
END YOUR WORD WORK YEAR With a FREE WORD WORK WRAP-UP<br />
FREE WORD WORK ACTIVITY<br />
End Your Year Word Work Activity - a FREEBIE<br />
Word Work WRAP-UP - a FREE Decoding Activity<br />
Wrap Up Your Year with this FREE Word Work Celebration<br />
<h3>
Students Note Their Growth</h3>
My readers take note of their progress using information they and I have recorded throughout the year or intervention cycle. We gather the list of gigantic words they can read from their student-facing <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-TRACKERS-SETS-1-47-WORD-PARTS-RECORDING-BOOK-BUNDLE-3719333">Trackers</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-DECODING-CONFERENCE-NOTES-BOOKLET-3696908">Student-Teacher Notes Booklet</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-KEEPING-YOUR-COLLECTED-WORDS-A-Z-BOOKLET-4281957">A-Z Mini Dictionary</a> and collected student flashcards.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-KEEPING-YOUR-COLLECTED-WORDS-A-Z-BOOKLET-4281957"><img alt="My Mini-Dictionary COLLECTING GIGANTIC WORDS A-Z" border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="870" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0z75wmUURPlC9yftIpBRg442pzw-XX3dapM6WTylQsM1rQtZmHG2Dzfof93dnea2XOOR08w3MJ6JOSS0oZn3G_CEMiQWqQL8t3lI5p3vfZyUNLBS0cDl9OcDeVbbx6wafxKcvA_itJ9R-/s400/Decoding+Multisyllabic+Words+Dictionary.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-DECODING-CONFERENCE-NOTES-BOOKLET-3696908"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="806" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVG46yadddv4JaCMsalVED-ToMuA5Ulqs5mnc94b8Ty8xkt_Zhluj71GqMdaYE5IZ9dtV46Lw3wl359QOPDc2-H14FBOcRqbpwdvd5D79A2nbdC6YZ5a5cTtpOS8jfVS3TmzYRkGvXnYE/s400/conference+notebook.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-PROGRAM-BUNDLE-3-FLASHCARDS-4031282"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="612" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMh6qxrgRUC0tWnMhfq0gzBbSI9WjnVKD_eSP3C9YeoARsk1OY0eEYrGDYCjUci90sdKaHky348iozrIz7PqVFtM1b4e6Ianj9bjWk2tLc8eEMt-RAgGKG7O_sq5YoVqCStq4SduciVPit/s320/flashcards+student.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<h3>
COLLECTING THE WORDS WE'VE LEARNED</h3>
Readers celebrate their new skills decoding multisyllabic words by collecting gigantic words and word parts they are now able to read with automaticity or decode independently.<br />
<br />
<h3>
GIGANTIC CELEBRATION</h3>
We add to the festive air of our last days by creating and hanging a GIGANTIC WORDS and WORD PARTS CHAIN. Each reader writes the multisyllabic words and word parts they can now read with automaticity or decode independently. The very long chain is a visual reminder of the group's success and skill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJofNWFuvjJiKo0fiffkJIzyqSEOb6oJ1ltmVxZCKkUlxh62Q6ATfhchDEOT3RD7ySDJzeBSiI-Bx83sMpAAUd4kARbKyQH9rD5XOutCnB5uSm4dUCcWW89q17_c77wTVV3KDQHKnGDiy/s1600/word-work-celebration-chain+2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="459" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJofNWFuvjJiKo0fiffkJIzyqSEOb6oJ1ltmVxZCKkUlxh62Q6ATfhchDEOT3RD7ySDJzeBSiI-Bx83sMpAAUd4kARbKyQH9rD5XOutCnB5uSm4dUCcWW89q17_c77wTVV3KDQHKnGDiy/s400/word-work-celebration-chain+2.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiStODwLcFN-9t6vSG_t8MNoxoh-DIT5MAOB7CV7aXXoQYGdDs5nYcjR97z-RBfP8eEF-YN_s3mrlrOQodLkeFE0wWfCiDznjbp5icrbcupAOXCVsoHC9G1MOxRXTgwyZSDj-DbwBzqU9r/s1600/word-work-celebration-chain.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="612" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiStODwLcFN-9t6vSG_t8MNoxoh-DIT5MAOB7CV7aXXoQYGdDs5nYcjR97z-RBfP8eEF-YN_s3mrlrOQodLkeFE0wWfCiDznjbp5icrbcupAOXCVsoHC9G1MOxRXTgwyZSDj-DbwBzqU9r/s320/word-work-celebration-chain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
COLORING CELEBRATION</h3>
I provide Celebrations Coloring Pages to my students to work on during down moments in our end-of-year class cleanup sessions, group parties or free-choice work time. Readers refer to the collections of words and word parts they've learned to read during this year or intervention cycle, then write them on the coloring pages. Then color.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-WORD-WORK-CELEBRATION-COLORING-PAGES-4545576"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1071" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIY6lXwRrnx6J7RT1Kk2wTPsFBgomD5xUIoIG_CP7dhnNy_cm0yPgsLIIx_SFedhhY1NEYZ1cc8vki_Ty9GRQCPfTzukvh9FGoIR2cMr13ARYefwnpIHdpw3N_sL-lQIUvIhk-mL1TDLCD/s320/CELEBRATION+end+of+year+coloring+page+FLIP+FLOPS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-WORD-WORK-CELEBRATION-COLORING-PAGES-4545576" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1071" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxG7Ddk2c1v3VtmTGHDva1iMr1FIeZdNkWh5HxnmLJDWtcbetXW2OhlTmeQIx6j5lfGNh1s-hqoGJ4KTD75hJArd3xGAGKGS_J3E_Is983S3hx4l_rVVHMN6T88TYPHpBv2TF2BtLMLZ-E/s400/CELEBRATION+end+of+year+coloring+page.jpg" width="400" /></a><span id="goog_2587368"></span><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_2587369"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
FREE!</h3>
Grab your <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-WORD-WORK-CELEBRATION-COLORING-PAGES-4545576">FREE WORD WORK CELEBRATIONS COLORING PAGES</a> <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-WORD-WORK-CELEBRATION-COLORING-PAGES-4545576">HERE</a>.</span><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
A GREAT WAY TO END </h3>
Stopping to celebrate success. Noticing how far one has come. I love to send my readers off wearing the pride they've rightfully earned. What a great way to end our work together!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/UC917ggyXM5WGDWt90xUocABt9Z3LhuYf31BzTD_QWpJpaeIpioE56277rBpasln6nHuM3bNWb73QRC9ak4bnsaMFb5wk56KQ8OzHYvgevmfDM5qDjQJT2Sl9RwOb6w3x_Wf5x_z" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" /></span></div>
<br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-b9061743-7fff-ad2d-a72b-6ac63f601bbd">UPPER ELEMENTARY: We want you to end the year with a celebratory bang! Check out these other free ideas for your upper elementary students and let us do the planning for you!</span><br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/05/teacher-end-of-year-must-do.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">End of Year Must Do: Teacher, Student, and Parent Reflections</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Think Grow </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Giggle</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/05/02/beach-ball-boogie-stem-challenge/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Beach Ball Boogie STEM Challenge</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/end-of-the-year-review-game/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">End of the Year Review Game</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // The Owl Teacher</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/?p=522" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Ending the School Year with a Slideshow</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Mikey D Teach</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/05/word-work-end-of-year-celebration.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Word Work End-of-Year Celebration</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.tarheelstateteacher.com/blog/last-week-of-school-activities-in-the-bag" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">"This Year is In the Bag" Reflection & Share-a-Bration!</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Tarheelstate </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Teacher</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.lovelearningtpt.com/2019/05/making-memories-at-end-of-school-year.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Making Memories at the End of the School Year</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Love Learning</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/05/tried-true-solution-for-teacher-tired.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">T</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">ried & True Solution for End of Year Teacher Tired</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> // Tried and True Teaching Tools</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
<span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span></div>Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-47251135121847921842019-04-04T05:00:00.002-07:002021-07-26T18:01:32.091-07:00Test Prep Twist for Struggling Readers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HB3A1nw_1V-EjWr3s9v1TDFdbaVCVfj9x42Bg-aU3w6gMTYfKKiUZl1hDWmSa0LIqOWMqU7fpnWhJvFm3zs0uNWeJ7f91sueMrOkqICPoutY31lFC-JvRwZy5z_dgZL8PiGQJyWA-SeC/s1600/decoding+test+words+no+heading.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1071" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HB3A1nw_1V-EjWr3s9v1TDFdbaVCVfj9x42Bg-aU3w6gMTYfKKiUZl1hDWmSa0LIqOWMqU7fpnWhJvFm3zs0uNWeJ7f91sueMrOkqICPoutY31lFC-JvRwZy5z_dgZL8PiGQJyWA-SeC/s1600/decoding+test+words+no+heading.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's a question we all wrestle with. How to help our struggling decoders read high-stakes tests that are written above their reading level? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While it isn't possible to solve the problem instantly, I like to harness my <b>existing decoding skills intervention</b> to do <b>double duty</b> as <b>supplemental test prep</b>.</div><span><a name='more'></a></span>
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">STEPS:</span></h4>
<br />
<ul>
<li>First, I check out sample tests looking for words that my students might encounter across more than one testing situation.</li>
<li>Then I use these words in my regular decoding intervention sessions.</li>
<li>During decoding intervention time, I show my decoders how to use the strategy I'm currently teaching to decode the words.</li>
<li>After teaching them strategies they can use to decode these words, we use word work practice to transfer as many of the words as possible to their automatic sight reading vocabulary.</li>
</ul>
<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">TEACH DECODING SKILLS:</span></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I teach my decoders to look for word parts and small words they may <i>already know</i> inside bigger, more daunting words. So during decoding test prep lessons, I teach them how to find these smaller parts inside the words on the testing words list. </div>
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">PRACTICE WORDS</span></h4>
<div>
We use our personal white boards to practice breaking the words up into the parts we see. Then we practice the words using flashcards. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOavtckWge11WWLU5oNvznA9HT9TMkAX8OhYDeyGZDIccVn_A4xZHhswmcEcShccjgl7jdd4DBqxGh-BZgkE8FOJ8hsC2ZhWIcjeBuv8Dxeh6laCXWwtsXUhSpq8bZ_CHk4dtvQVjEwcm/s1600/identify+white+board+word+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOavtckWge11WWLU5oNvznA9HT9TMkAX8OhYDeyGZDIccVn_A4xZHhswmcEcShccjgl7jdd4DBqxGh-BZgkE8FOJ8hsC2ZhWIcjeBuv8Dxeh6laCXWwtsXUhSpq8bZ_CHk4dtvQVjEwcm/s1600/identify+white+board+word+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">REINFORCE AUTOMATICITY</span> </h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After that we play games using the words, like BINGO. </div>
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">FREE RESOURCE</span></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
BINGO is a time-tested favorite! If you'd like this test-prep version BINGO game, just grab the freebie <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-BINGO-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-FREE-Starter-Set-4489196">HERE</a>.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-BINGO-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-FREE-Starter-Set-4489196"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8xHEHbLXWn5gi2qvhnekMLO0Fts_OrvHY-2NwQzWXb3kBOIFaBgEn3T3HFG1vBhbu95qKXkyr3imnLAoqC4pzR8RForQQ8GpNTb6xiYoyoZwdadHiTIJGZ9fcwuAHMY_GHo_Ar3oBNNR/s1600/BINGO+TEST+PREP+STARTER+FREE+ACTIVITY.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This free resource provides a </div>
<ul>
<li>BINGO game, test prep words version </li>
<li>12 versions of the BINGO card </li>
<li>Calling cards for each of the 30 words</li>
<li>LIST of the 30 basic words used</li>
<li>This version has only 8 words per BINGO card, so your struggling readers can locate and read the words more quickly.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">JUST ONE PIECE OF THE PUZZLE</span></h3>
Alas, extra decoding test prep won't, by itself, magically bring our struggling below-level decoders up to grade level in time for the test. There will still be words on any test written above their reading level that these readers will struggle to decode and recognize.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So why do it? I'm certain that, for our strugglers, every small piece of the puzzle that I can put into place helps. I know that the more skills I can give them, the more confidence they'll have to keep trying. I know if they keep trying, together we'll get there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE DECODING STRATEGIES</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Want a <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-INTERVENTION-BINDER-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-4492814">Decoding Multisyllabic Words Intervention Binder, Test-Prep Version</a></span>, complete with guided work pages, matching task cards, flashcards and assessments covering 200 words your students might encounter while test taking? Find it <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-INTERVENTION-BINDER-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-4492814">HERE</a></span>. Full <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-BINGO-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-4489665">Test-Prep BINGO set for 200 words</a></span> is <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/TEST-PREP-BINGO-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Test-Words-4489665">HERE</a></span>. Looking for a <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-READING-INTERVENTION-COMPLETE-PROGRAM-4382890">Complete Year-Long Decoding Program</a></span> for older readers? It's <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-READING-INTERVENTION-COMPLETE-PROGRAM-4382890">HERE</a></span>. Or check out this <span style="color: #bf9000;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-COMPLETE-MEGA-BUNDLE-Intervention-2597352">Intensive Summer Decoding Program</a></span> </span>for older readers <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SUMMER-READING-Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-COMPLETE-MEGA-BUNDLE-Intervention-2597352">HERE</a>.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE TEST-PREP STRATEGIES</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Need more test prep strategies? Check out these other great ideas for your upper elementary students!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img height="563" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HIpbtNdAc65mUafD8tv6En93FE5-u4ziAcbMWO7faC4UWF1Y5yEtJpClXMyRb6I57o7lvcyuTCt9-zOchEjoikBeMKFiY8vUtGgfYwikE1SEYBsQZW-VX5fm-ZggGIQ6vlLGY1Vx" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="375" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://elementaryinquiry.com/2019/04/04/reciprocal-teaching-test-review/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reciprocal Teaching Presentations Test Prep</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Elementary Inquiry</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/04/the-power-of-active-reading-as-test.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Power of Active Reading as a Test Prep Strategy</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Think Grow Giggle</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.tarheelstateteacher.com/blog/free-reading-test-prep-questions-activity" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sorting Reading Test Question Stems</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Tarheelstate Teacher</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/04/test-prep-boot-camp.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Test Prep Boot Camp</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Tried and True Teaching Tools</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/04/04/making-test-prep-enjoyable/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Making Test Prep More Enjoyable</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/preparing-students-testing/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Preparing Students for Testing</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // The Owl Teacher</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/04/test-prep-twist-for-struggling-readers.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Test Prep Twist for Struggling Readers</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> // Reading by Heart</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-27015788397496611592019-02-07T05:43:00.000-08:002021-07-23T23:32:41.193-07:00<h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDtpnWfjRZFB_xarrfPj5hyphenhyphenQEeJrqg2-Xv-5EV4M8zfQAmQ2aSxattqfwoCQR4D1O8c22g3XTreECEqsbIrRTmAUL4SSo7lCjTvuELLGyVyye-MdLj73fNu4S18GXRjqq0dR2KAqbV6lw/s1600/just-right-reading+Haylee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1071" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDtpnWfjRZFB_xarrfPj5hyphenhyphenQEeJrqg2-Xv-5EV4M8zfQAmQ2aSxattqfwoCQR4D1O8c22g3XTreECEqsbIrRTmAUL4SSo7lCjTvuELLGyVyye-MdLj73fNu4S18GXRjqq0dR2KAqbV6lw/s1600/just-right-reading+Haylee.jpg" /></a></div>
</h2>
<div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">GROWING TULIPS AND OTHER READERS</span></h3>
For most of the year, third-grader Haylee had flitted around the reading room, skittish, looking up from her book every few seconds. She read as if a wildfire threatened the east wall of the classroom, looking up every few seconds as if checking to see if danger had broken through. She read as if she needed to know if now was the time to run.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">The Mysterious Nature of Just-Right</span></h3>
Haylee's story illustrates the mysterious nature of what is <i>just right</i> when helping our struggling readers select books. I most often use all the customary formulas for helping my students pick just-right books. From time to time, though, something powerful happens - as Haylee's story illustrates - that is all the just-right formula our readers need. Of all the typical tools in my teacher toolbelt, supporting readers as they blossom is my favorite.<br />
<br />
I didn't know for sure what began the change.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Stuck on Junie B.</span></h3>
One day, while picking at the usual <i>Junie B. Jones</i> books in their red plastic basket, Haylee suddenly announced she wanted something new. She turned away from the “second grade” chapter book shelves. She eyed the thicker “fourth and fifth-grade” books with a quick look. <br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Can I Read Strider?</span></h3>
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/513YXAzs%2BUL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Strider (Leigh Botts Book 2) by [Cleary, Beverly]" border="0" height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/513YXAzs%2BUL.jpg" width="300" /></a>“Can I read <i>Strider</i>?” she asked.<br />
<br />
“Wel-l-l.” I drew my sentence out, looking for the right answer. <br />
<br />
“What about this one?” She held up <i>Black Beauty</i> - a long book written at seventh-grade level. <br />
<br />
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41PPgbI-ZWL._SX311_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" /><br />
<br />
“We-l-l,” I repeated, giving her time to touch each paperback, time to fill the space between us with what she needed. <br />
<br />
I was taken aback. She hadn’t shown any interest in reading anything, let alone harder books. She was barely able to concentrate on the short chapter books I’d required her to read. While I stalled for time, I tried to figure out what she needed, what had brought her to this point. What was her commitment to these longer, harder books? How badly did she want it? Was it a passing thought, like a crawling baby’s interest in a table leg? <br />
<br />
“Well,” I said again, stringing the thoughts together like cranberries. “These are pretty hard. They’re fourth-grade books, or fifth-grade books, or eighth-grade books. You’re not a fourth-grader or fifth-grader or eighth-grader. You’re not expected to be able to read these.” <br />
<br />
I smiled and waited, letting her try on the information for size. </div>
<div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">I Want to Read a Book Like This</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
“I want to read a book like this,” she said with a quick flash of something being born in her eyes. <br />
<br />
“You’re sure you don’t want to read another <i>Junie B.</i>? They’re pretty funny,” I asked.<br />
<br />
Is that your final answer? <br />
<img alt="Book cover for Junie B. Jones #3: Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth" src="https://images.randomhouse.com/cover/9780679844075?width=200" /><br />
She shook her head, no. <br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Like a Tinker Opening His Coat to His Best Wares</span></h3>
“OK,” I said, and shoved off from shore. “Let me show you something.” I turned toward the opposite shelf, like a tinker opening his coat to his best wares. </div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
The Best First Long Chapter Book</span></h3>
<div>
“This is the book I recommend you start with - <i>Sideways Stories From Wayside School.</i> It’s the best first long chapter book. Just about everybody I know enjoys it. People usually pass the quiz and it’s very funny. It has short chapters; one chapter is only one sentence long! I definitely recommend it for people who want to try a longer chapter book.” <br />
<img alt="Sideways Stories from Wayside School by [Sachar, Louis]" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Pw%2BRyrh-L.jpg" /><br />
At first she had trouble decoding most of the words on the page. I wondered if what I was doing was right. Conventional wisdom says readers should only read books that are “right” for them. “Right” for most people means “in their reading range.” </div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
The Five-Finger Rule</span></h3>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9AhLbwsEew6tjFKZPsmtY2txtbwjWBQkceEu2lgDlCXSSVW9OFP4htigxyyHWaryAAI5A4j7TYGaV0rQI8Ll6YjAQ7oEN7EpSWZdooYvaxTSXxEal16kpUWpQTkl_FK3ze0uNqws9mKL/s1600/just-right-reading-5-finger-rule.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1071" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9AhLbwsEew6tjFKZPsmtY2txtbwjWBQkceEu2lgDlCXSSVW9OFP4htigxyyHWaryAAI5A4j7TYGaV0rQI8Ll6YjAQ7oEN7EpSWZdooYvaxTSXxEal16kpUWpQTkl_FK3ze0uNqws9mKL/s320/just-right-reading-5-finger-rule.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
One rule of thumb measures a book for “rightness” by testing how many unfamiliar words a student encounters on a typical page. This “five-finger” rule states that any time a student encounters more than five unfamiliar words on a page, that book is probably too hard. <br />
<br />
I wrote a note to Haylee’s teacher hoping to reassure her. She had her doubts. But Haylee, like a green tulip shoot, was bursting out of her protective bulb shell. </div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
The Enthusiasm Spreads</span></h3>
<div>
Her enthusiasm spread to her classmates. Soon several children in her class had abandoned their <i>Junie B.</i> and <i>Magic Treehouse</i> books in favor of the much harder and longer <i>Harry Potter</i>, <i>Shiloh</i> and <i>Beverly Cleary</i> books - leaping past several steps at once. Now her teacher was really concerned.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><img alt="Image result for harry potter book" height="200" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSediS5_EvthW4FvfBm0OWMhOs72XOZq2sg--hWiThuw3D99A5h4Q" width="131" /><img alt="Holes: Louis Sachar" height="200" src="https://pictures.abebooks.com/isbn/9780439253222-us.jpg" width="134" /><a href="https://bookdepot-lmwv1z0x2r9fdffrc7q.netdna-ssl.com/covers/large/isbn978038/9780380732722-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://bookdepot-lmwv1z0x2r9fdffrc7q.netdna-ssl.com/covers/large/isbn978038/9780380732722-l.jpg" width="132" /></a><br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
Challenge, Rest, Challenge</span></h3>
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>After <i>Sideways Stories,</i> Haylee rested with several easy books, then tackled <i>Ramona’s World</i>. She didn’t pass the quiz, but enjoyed the book and remained energized to keep trying. After that, she read a <i>Harry Potter</i> book with her mom. <br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Suddenly, They're Too Easy</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
“These books are too easy!” she exclaimed in surprise one day after reading another <i>Junie B.</i> book. Suddenly, the “easy books” she’d struggled with just a few weeks before seemed simple. </div>
<h3>
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="color: #bf9000;">
Growth Isn't Always in Measured Steps</span></h3>
Two months after her decision to read harder books, she was reading <i>Holes</i>, a long, fourth-grade book. She read smoothly, encountering only five or six new words per page. Growth, though sequential, isn’t always in measured steps.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Haylee Became a Reader</span></h3>
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203"></a><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203"></a>Like the tulip bulb in spring that bursts suddenly open in order to live, Haylee became a reader. Like tulips, she would continue to need care and feeding, but she was blooming and on her way.<br />
<br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><u>JUST-RIGHT READING: 3 STORIES</u></span></h4>
Read Tristan's story:</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-challenge.html">JUST-RIGHT CHALLENGE: Tristan's Story</a><br />
Read Samantha's Story:<br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html"> I LOVE MYSELF! Samantha's Story</a><br />
<br />
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE TO EXPLORE</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>CHECK OUT THESE OTHER GREAT IDEAS TO </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>SPARK A LOVE OF LEARNING IN YOUR UPPER ELEMENTARY STUDENTS.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">From left to right: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a><a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Learning with Games</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | The Owl Teacher </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/02/spark-love-of-social-studies.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Social Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Tried and True Teaching Tools </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mixandmath.com/blog/love-of-fractions" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">3 Ways to Inspire a Love of Fractions</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mix and Math</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Just-Right Reading: I Love Myself!</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/02/5-ways-to-ignite-love-of-math-problem.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">5 Ways to Ignite a Love of Math Problem Solving</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Think Grow Giggle </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://elementaryinquiry.com/2019/02/07/travel-tic-tac-toe:-make-up-work-that-teachers-and-students-will-love/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Absent Work that Students and Teachers Love</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Elementary Inquiry </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/loving-to-write-informational-texts/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Loving to Write Informational Texts</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mikey D Teach</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/2019/02/valuing-student-voice-to-create-love-of.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Valuing Student Voice to Create a Love of Learning</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Wild Child’s Mossy Oak Musings</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/02/07/developing-grit-learning-to-love-a-challenge/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Developing Grit: Learning to Love a Challenge</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">| Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lovelearningtpt.com/2019/02/how-to-inspire-love-of-geometry.html?m=1&fbclid=IwAR1Joss6wmPmPmr-s1lwsCaQwkKhgeien2PouDd7FXRkRm2lbh6Wc_gaHyc" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How to Build a Love of Geometry</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Love Learning</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6nBbTIvyeGj2snB1d5mkbTvHMdTYK0KFKg5Oa-_7syzRKTvLE2p-D5qU6msvA6lMIqzvPiM04lS8HwD0H_cZ2vxaiaJ5S9ZRcjmgQRu7XCs49gl5D9pepgkafQXuH-G2I3cyKRJN" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6nBbTIvyeGj2snB1d5mkbTvHMdTYK0KFKg5Oa-_7syzRKTvLE2p-D5qU6msvA6lMIqzvPiM04lS8HwD0H_cZ2vxaiaJ5S9ZRcjmgQRu7XCs49gl5D9pepgkafQXuH-G2I3cyKRJN" style="background-color: white; border: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-weight: 700; text-align: center; transform: rotate(0rad); white-space: pre;" width="376" /></a><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="text-align: -webkit-center;" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<h3>
</h3>
<br />
<br /></div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-54133683713159286072019-02-07T05:00:00.001-08:002021-07-24T10:06:06.680-07:00Just-Right Reading A New Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NydOxfNmEXppuc_Q77YvkUsrI26oCuKc8sscVsJtZezLWHcxwpH7J6rPm0xh3cZboAheHJ9Dt-l_Y8d1dY37m2XA-0DxNBseYfi9-YajqO8aZIvymU0ZicbKsnKogAaCvKJtyr_w3zmX/s1600/Just-right-reading+I+Love+myself+joyful.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1071" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NydOxfNmEXppuc_Q77YvkUsrI26oCuKc8sscVsJtZezLWHcxwpH7J6rPm0xh3cZboAheHJ9Dt-l_Y8d1dY37m2XA-0DxNBseYfi9-YajqO8aZIvymU0ZicbKsnKogAaCvKJtyr_w3zmX/s1600/Just-right-reading+I+Love+myself+joyful.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="text-indent: 48px;">A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON</span> JUST-RIGHT READING</h3>
<br />
"I can't help it," she cried, flinging out her arms. "These books are <i>so interesting!</i> I just <i>love</i> them."<div>
<a name='more'></a><div>
<span style="text-indent: 48px;">Just-right reading is the match between a student’s reading ability and </span><span style="text-indent: 48px;">a book's difficulty level</span><span style="text-indent: 48px;">. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="text-indent: 48px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="text-indent: 48px;">We teach our readers to </span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: 48px;">open to a page and use the 'five-finger rule'</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: 48px;">peruse a book jacket</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: 48px;">think about their interests</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: 48px;">monitor their speed and comprehension.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: 48px;">read only at their tested reading level.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
But 'Just Right' is also more.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are three stories that illustrate when sometimes letting go of our trusted formulas is the just-right strategy. How sometimes following a student's lead can make all the difference.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<h4>
<u>
JUST-RIGHT READING: 3 STORIES </u></h4>
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html">I LOVE MYSELF! Samantha's Story</a><br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-haylee.html">GROWING TULIPS AND OTHER READERS: Haylee's Story</a><br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-challenge.html">JUST-RIGHT CHALLENGE: Tristan's Story</a><br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">I LOVE MYSELF!: Samantha's Story</span></h3>
I wasn't sure I should allow Samantha to read the book she was clutching. At a solid 4th - 6th grade reading level and filled with challenging vocabulary, this 200-page book seemed far above the level a struggling third grader should be tackling.<br />
<br />
She had started the year reading <i>Clifford</i> books, then moved on to <i>Magic Treehouse</i>. When her teacher read aloud <i>The Indian in the Cupboard</i>, Samantha became entranced. She began reading the sequel, <i>Return of the Indian.</i> It took her all of March. She left her copy at her dad's for a week. We found her another. She lost her second copy at her mom's. We checked out a third at the library. During that month, her class missed reading group for two weeks for test prep and state testing.<br />
<img alt="Clifford the Big Red Dog (8x8)" height="200" src="https://shop.scholastic.com/content/dam/scholastic/sso/products/87/9780545215787/9780545215787_alt.gif" width="200" /><img alt="Warriors in Winter" height="200" src="https://images.randomhouse.com/cover/9780525647645" width="132" /><img height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/513I%2BB9tnkL._SX334_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="134" /><br />
In spite of it all, she finished the book by the end of the month and was eager to read <i>The Secret of the Indian </i>- the third in the series. Her classroom teacher required students to document successful reading each month. Samantha had scored 50% on her month-long read of <i>Return of the Indian</i> - and thus had zero classroom credit for March.<br />
<br />
Now it was April and I had a decision to make.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
If I let Samantha repeat the process, it was possible that she'd also earn zero credit for April. I thought about how guilty I'd felt letting her read such a difficult book in the first place. My decision had contributed to her classroom 'failure' for March. I knew her teacher would be angry with me and frustrated with Samantha. I pictured the rolled eyes in the staffroom.<br />
<br />
I hesitated and debated with myself. I knew she was fluent enough to read the book. I had listened to her read it. But was it beyond her comprehension level?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She continued her plea. "I just can't help it," she cried. "These books are <i>so interesting!</i> I just love them."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Suddenly, I grinned. "My goodness! If you <i>love</i> these books, then I say, 'Go for it!' Being able to pass the quiz is important. Documenting your reading is important. Reading books at your "just right" level is important. But loving books is even more important! We'll just have to help you. I'll just have to work it out with your teacher."<br />
<br />
I went on to explain that sometimes the first time a person reads a challenging chapter book, they don't pass the test because it takes them such a long time - because they're getting used to reading such a long book. But after that, they get used to it, and they do pass quizzes and finish it faster. "We can help you set page goals so you finish the book in a couple of weeks instead of a month."<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
She smiled a wide smile. "I used to hate reading!" she exclaimed. "Now I love it. I don't know what's happening!"<br />
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">"I Used to <i>Hate</i> Reading!"</span></span></h3>
She gestured wildly at the bins of the easiest picture books. "I started out reading these really easy picture books and I hated reading. Then I read these (she pointed to the second and third grade chapter books.)"<br />
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">"Now I <i>Love</i> Reading!"</span></span></h3>
"Now I'm reading green and blue and orange (fourth, fifth and sixth grade chapter books) and I love reading!"<br />
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">"Thanks for Letting Me Read This."</span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
Later that class period she came up to thank me. "Thanks for letting me read this even though I didn't pass the test. I'm glad you understand." Throughout that half-hour I could hear her muttering to herself, "She understands!"<br />
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">"She Understands!"</span></span></h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGvuHkkZro6RgvR1lisGYvh4OPhrAUsCwZimMtCbjCO7wZwfQYkabk86KbqlKqxaQpfayKintYDn4b85Fp_yqWjhXFTmT_be0jqfLq7jhvw9pS2P-NeYb2VyG3gQfmRmx_DyvnSwxPjBF/s1600/Just-Right-Reading+I+Love+Myself+Rect.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGvuHkkZro6RgvR1lisGYvh4OPhrAUsCwZimMtCbjCO7wZwfQYkabk86KbqlKqxaQpfayKintYDn4b85Fp_yqWjhXFTmT_be0jqfLq7jhvw9pS2P-NeYb2VyG3gQfmRmx_DyvnSwxPjBF/s640/Just-Right-Reading+I+Love+Myself+Rect.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">I </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">LOVE </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">MYSELF!</span></h3>
As she left that day, Samantha proclaimed, as she checked out her book, "Oh, I'm so proud of myself! I <i>love</i> myself!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If I can help a child in my care learn to love reading and love herself, I know I've made the right choices. </div>
<div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Looking for the Balance</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
Sometimes I worry about the decisions I have to make. How to navigate reading levels and progress monitoring and data collection and helping kids read Just-Right books. How to find each reader's sweet spot on the continuum of independent, instructional and frustration level. How to nurture each child's unique need for zooming toward a challenge or taking it slow. How to balance skills practice with the joy of reading.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Passing the Test</span></h3>
On the days I can inspire a child to cry out, "Oh, I <i>love </i>myself!" even though she didn't pass a test, I know that we have both passed. We can both exclaim, "Oh! I'm so proud of myself!"<br />
<br />
Read Haylee's story:<br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-haylee.html">GROWING TULIPS AND OTHER READERS: Haylee's Story</a><br />
Read Tristan's story:<br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-challenge.html">JUST-RIGHT CHALLENGE: Tristan's Story</a><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE TO EXPLORE</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>CHECK OUT THESE OTHER GREAT IDEAS TO </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>SPARK A LOVE OF LEARNING IN YOUR UPPER ELEMENTARY STUDENTS.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">From left to right: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a><a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Learning with Games</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | The Owl Teacher </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/02/spark-love-of-social-studies.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Social Studies</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Tried and True Teaching Tools </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mixandmath.com/blog/love-of-fractions" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">3 Ways to Inspire a Love of Fractions</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mix and Math</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Just-Right Reading: I Love Myself!</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/02/5-ways-to-ignite-love-of-math-problem.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">5 Ways to Ignite a Love of Math Problem Solving</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Think Grow Giggle </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://elementaryinquiry.com/2019/02/07/travel-tic-tac-toe:-make-up-work-that-teachers-and-students-will-love/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Absent Work that Students and Teachers Love</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Elementary Inquiry </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/loving-to-write-informational-texts/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Loving to Write Informational Texts</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mikey D Teach</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/2019/02/valuing-student-voice-to-create-love-of.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Valuing Student Voice to Create a Love of Learning</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Wild Child’s Mossy Oak Musings</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/02/07/developing-grit-learning-to-love-a-challenge/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Developing Grit: Learning to Love a Challenge</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">| Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lovelearningtpt.com/2019/02/how-to-inspire-love-of-geometry.html?m=1&fbclid=IwAR1Joss6wmPmPmr-s1lwsCaQwkKhgeien2PouDd7FXRkRm2lbh6Wc_gaHyc" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How to Build a Love of Geometry</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Love Learning</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><img height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6nBbTIvyeGj2snB1d5mkbTvHMdTYK0KFKg5Oa-_7syzRKTvLE2p-D5qU6msvA6lMIqzvPiM04lS8HwD0H_cZ2vxaiaJ5S9ZRcjmgQRu7XCs49gl5D9pepgkafQXuH-G2I3cyKRJN" style="border: none; font-size: 14.6667px; font-weight: 700; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="376" /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="direction: ltr; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; mso-line-break-override: none; punctuation-wrap: hanging; tab-stops: left -36.0pt left 0pt left 36.0pt left 72.0pt left 108.0pt left 144.0pt left 180.0pt left 216.0pt left 252.0pt left 288.0pt left 324.0pt left 360.0pt left 396.0pt left 432.0pt left 468.0pt left 504.0pt; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<br /></div>
<center>
</center>
</div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-34586603982938088112019-02-07T04:30:00.002-08:002021-07-24T09:44:54.485-07:00Just-Right Reading Just-Right Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMZ5K5frx_f7kQwiN5V9l466sVsK2HloAMzrJgAnlPFBIyLC7k1pu6WSCBpLQv6ve2_cHlzwJDYYCEVxyioRjwTu-Cc-DysXIwSqGZ6NgjpDtD_HOdfhmkTrLy-gZA-vsJtK5BwgLNbIM/s1600/just-right-reading+challenge.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1071" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMZ5K5frx_f7kQwiN5V9l466sVsK2HloAMzrJgAnlPFBIyLC7k1pu6WSCBpLQv6ve2_cHlzwJDYYCEVxyioRjwTu-Cc-DysXIwSqGZ6NgjpDtD_HOdfhmkTrLy-gZA-vsJtK5BwgLNbIM/s1600/just-right-reading+challenge.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For some readers, the standard formula doesn't work. These readers need something different when deciding on just-right books.<span><a name='more'></a></span></div>
<br />
My job is to stand back and see what they need. It's often a scary place to be - out on a limb without rules to guide me. It's easier to follow the formulas:<br />
<ul>
<li>book readability level + student assessed reading level = just right book</li>
<li>six words missed on a page = put the book back.</li>
</ul>
But, sometimes, inexplicably, our readers bring a formula of their own:<br />
<ul>
<li>desire + interest + need for challenge = success.</li></ul><h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Why Read Books That Are Too Hard?</span></h3>
Why do some readers want to read books that are too hard? Some struggling readers want to read what their friends are reading. Some need more sophisticated plots, vocabulary, and themes. They can't get interested in simplistic stories written for younger readers.<br />
<br />
But hope alone isn't enough for success. Some students carry books around for weeks hoping that hope will make it so. Others struggle, then give in and give up. I let them try (for a time.) They almost always decide on their own to put the book away, and move on to something easier.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">If You Can't, Pretend</span></h3>
Some strugglers are dealing with the shame they feel having "failed" for so long at something their classmates find easy. They pretend to read big books.<br />
<div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Caution vs. Challenge</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
But some want hard books because they prefer to “live on the edge”; they enjoy life more when there's a challenge. How we help our readers select just-right books depends, in part, on where they land on the caution vs. challenge spectrum. Some readers refuse to move onto harder levels until they're ultra sure they're ready. These students have a high need for caution.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Readers Who Love Challenge Can Read Harder Books </span></h3>
But others thrive on challenge. These readers can happily tackle 15 new words on a page of dense text - while others might wilt at encountering 4. Readers who are undaunted by difficulty are able to read harder books than their levels suggest.</div>
<div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Intuitive Readers</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
A rare few are able to actually teach themselves to read - and seem to know it. These plow through with sheer willpower and an unusually intuitive sense about reading. Struggling readers who fit into this category may have had (or still have) difficulty with beginning phonics. Luckily, they may have other strengths that, when used instead, propel them forward.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">TRISTAN</span></h3>
Third-grader Tristan was a <i>near-non reader</i>.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Picture Books with a Reading Buddy</span></h3>
To give him a boost, we set him up to read beginning picture books an extra twenty minutes a day in the reading room with a fifth-grade reading buddy.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">He Decided on Chapter Books Instead</span></h3>
One day, though, he set his mind on reading chapter books. He wasn’t interested in the least in our advice regarding the usual stair-stepping sequence of gradually increasing reading difficulty. <br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Determined to Select His Own Books</span></h3>
He stubbornly selected his books based on his interest in them and jumped his level ahead rapidly.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">He Read Avidly</span></h3>
He read avidly every night, every recess and with his reading buddy.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">We Didn't Have the Heart to Stand in His Way</span></h3>
He worked so hard we didn’t have the heart to stand in his way. I watched him doggedly work his way through the books he read word by word, sounding the words out, guessing at their possible meanings. He seemed to have an acute ability to infer the meanings of words, using what seemed to be high-level context-skill clues and an excellent word-recognition vocabulary.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Above Grade Level</span></h3>
It was clear that at the rate he was going, he would soon be one of our strongest above-grade-level readers.<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Harnessing Stengths</span></h3>
Tristan used a collection of unique skills to forge his own way to success. He used his strengths:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>uncanny grasp of context clues </li>
<li>razor-sharp inference skills</li>
<li>advanced word-recognition vocabulary </li>
<li>determination</li>
</ul>
to become a reader.<br />
<br />
If we'd followed our usual formulas:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>10-20 books at each reading level before moving up PLUS</li>
<li>assessed reading level score=reading level of appropriate books </li>
</ul>
he'd have been stuck at the starting gate indefinitely with nothing to read.<br />
We literally had 5 books available at his "appropriate reading level" because he was so low when he started.<br />
<br />
Tristan's story illustrates how the formulas we rely on to help us match books with kids don't fit for some of our readers. For these readers, the just-right formula is following their lead as we help them harness their unique gifts.<br />
<br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><u>JUST-RIGHT READING: 3 STORIES</u></span></h4>
Read Samantha's story:<br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html">I LOVE MYSELF! Samantha's Story</a><br />
Read Haylee's story:<br />
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-haylee.html">GROWING TULIPS AND OTHER READERS: Haylee's Story</a><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE TO EXPLORE</span></h3>
<div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>CHECK OUT THESE OTHER GREAT IDEAS TO </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>SPARK A LOVE OF LEARNING IN YOUR UPPER ELEMENTARY STUDENTS.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">From left to right: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a><a href="https://theowlteacher.com/learning-with-games" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Learning with Games</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | The Owl Teacher </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/02/spark-love-of-social-studies.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spark a Love of Social Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Tried and True Teaching Tools </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mixandmath.com/blog/love-of-fractions" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">3 Ways to Inspire a Love of Fractions</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mix and Math</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/02/just-right-reading-i-love-myself.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Just-Right Reading: I Love Myself!</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/02/5-ways-to-ignite-love-of-math-problem.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">5 Ways to Ignite a Love of Math Problem Solving</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Think Grow Giggle </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://elementaryinquiry.com/2019/02/07/travel-tic-tac-toe:-make-up-work-that-teachers-and-students-will-love/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Absent Work that Students and Teachers Love</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Elementary Inquiry </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/loving-to-write-informational-texts/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Loving to Write Informational Texts</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mikey D Teach</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/2019/02/valuing-student-voice-to-create-love-of.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Valuing Student Voice to Create a Love of Learning</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Wild Child’s Mossy Oak Musings</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.stemchallenge.com/2019/02/07/developing-grit-learning-to-love-a-challenge/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Developing Grit: Learning to Love a Challenge</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">| Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lovelearningtpt.com/2019/02/how-to-inspire-love-of-geometry.html?m=1&fbclid=IwAR1Joss6wmPmPmr-s1lwsCaQwkKhgeien2PouDd7FXRkRm2lbh6Wc_gaHyc" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How to Build a Love of Geometry</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Love Learning</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><img height="640" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6nBbTIvyeGj2snB1d5mkbTvHMdTYK0KFKg5Oa-_7syzRKTvLE2p-D5qU6msvA6lMIqzvPiM04lS8HwD0H_cZ2vxaiaJ5S9ZRcjmgQRu7XCs49gl5D9pepgkafQXuH-G2I3cyKRJN" style="background-color: white; border: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 14.6667px; font-weight: 700; text-align: center; transform: rotate(0rad); white-space: pre;" width="376" /><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-34406565215734831752019-01-03T05:00:00.003-08:002021-07-26T15:02:39.544-07:00COLLECTING MULTISYLLABIC WORDS <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh72zR5KAD8-hHAVSYBGslB-sHYpSC5Q3gtbxxJ5U_EEKkPEDf9HsoDoiQwMPh__Arh6Br8PPhKYrlEckYwB6mmKSIKIENPdpVP3yNlPR16aosGqXz_uqJxhPSB3mDi3uoO_8yg28PEjj/s1350/word-work-collecting-big-words.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh72zR5KAD8-hHAVSYBGslB-sHYpSC5Q3gtbxxJ5U_EEKkPEDf9HsoDoiQwMPh__Arh6Br8PPhKYrlEckYwB6mmKSIKIENPdpVP3yNlPR16aosGqXz_uqJxhPSB3mDi3uoO_8yg28PEjj/s16000/word-work-collecting-big-words.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<i>The Word Collector,</i> by Peter H. Reynolds, is a joyous introduction to the charms of discovering, savoring and sharing new words.<span><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<br />
<div>
This simple picture book is an ideal mentor text to start your students collecting delicious new words to use in both their writing and their reading lives.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
In this blog post, we'll focus on helping your students collect new words for their reading. Today, we'll hone in on the delights of decoding gigantic, multisyllabic words that are MARVELOUS to SAY.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
We'll design our strategy specifically to help struggling older readers. </div>
<div>
<br />
<!--more--><br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nSBVI8jZXqwPoFD7XXNklw1lUViKbUerjz0g_Dy9j7GGf-U2THQ5BtKzoUj6Qj2INg0JBYWDiNkkPczC3svQt-Bnk0vFfu6uFJpaUkZXaRNvYDUSu8-ULhTkOdypb0-DsqpbKxxL4OZn/s1600/Slide5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nSBVI8jZXqwPoFD7XXNklw1lUViKbUerjz0g_Dy9j7GGf-U2THQ5BtKzoUj6Qj2INg0JBYWDiNkkPczC3svQt-Bnk0vFfu6uFJpaUkZXaRNvYDUSu8-ULhTkOdypb0-DsqpbKxxL4OZn/s640/Slide5.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
For struggling and advanced readers alike, being able to<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #bf9000;">correctly pronounce</span> and </li>
<li><span style="color: #bf9000;">accurately understand the meaning</span> of a new multisyllabic word </li>
</ul>
are two separate, discreet skills.<br />
<br />
Unlike early readers, who are learning to decode words they already know the meaning of ("cat" and "dog") - readers of multisyllabic words are faced with a double task.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000; font-weight: normal;"><i>
~Readers learning multisyllabic words must often decode a new word and decipher its meaning at the same time.~
</i></span></h4>
<br />
Readers learning multisyllabic words must often 1. decode the new word and 2. decipher its meaning - at the same time.<br />
<br />
For readers who struggle, either task can be daunting. For these readers, trying to take on both tasks simultaneously can be overwhelming.<br />
<br />
This is why I recommend helping your students focus on <i>one </i>of these tasks at a time.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">FOCUS ON ONE TASK AT A TIME</span></h2>
<br />
Learning the <i>meanings</i> of new vocabulary words is a delightful and important skill.<br />
<br />
But first I want to give my struggling decoders the keys they need to decipher new multisyllabic words, and <i><span style="color: #bf9000;">later</span></i>, discover their meanings. To paraphrase the proverb, I want to teach them to fish:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3a-2DILH3OOn1PeUdyMnCgAbvoSjf95ETqBouKeWG5QJ16UcQY5xEpWOLjBr1P5iI3hymLO5BTzB1XZxzG7qk9RG4nTUe2zMwLYVgIeik2zps0Gpzs_AZYck5pz69MkHgU8cetQZx8R6/s1600/QUOTE+TEACH+MY+STUDENTS+TO+FISH.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3a-2DILH3OOn1PeUdyMnCgAbvoSjf95ETqBouKeWG5QJ16UcQY5xEpWOLjBr1P5iI3hymLO5BTzB1XZxzG7qk9RG4nTUe2zMwLYVgIeik2zps0Gpzs_AZYck5pz69MkHgU8cetQZx8R6/s640/QUOTE+TEACH+MY+STUDENTS+TO+FISH.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Because if they know how to decode a multisyllabic word, they'll have the same opportunity their more skilled reading peers have - to read longer texts containing longer words, enjoying and discovering delightful new words on their own.<br />
<br />
Later, we'll delve into interesting new vocabulary. But, meanwhile, they can set off on their own, soaring to whatever heights they may be able to achieve as <i><span style="color: #bf9000;">independent</span> </i>readers.<br />
<br />
<div>
Advanced readers often decode and correctly pronounce new words without knowing their meanings.<br />
<br />
As they read the word they internalize the context in which they find it. They eventually come to understand its meaning, adding it to their collection of known words.</div>
<br />
Struggling older decoders can also start by learning to decode large, multisyllabic words they may not yet know the meanings of. They will encounter these words when they attempt to read the books their peers are reading - and which they secretly or not-so-secretly long to also read:<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">SOME BOOKS AND THEIR MULTISYLLABIC WORDS</span></h2>
<br />
<ul>
<li><i>How to Train Your Dragon: </i>transformation, inheritance, viciously, sniveling, misadventures </li>
<li><i>Peter and the Starcatchers:</i> dispassionate, riveting, tentative, hovering, swiveling, malignant </li>
<li><i>Eragon: </i>vigorous, tributary, uninhabited, involuntarily, numerous, myriad, dominance, brutish</li>
<li><i>Ranger's Apprentice:</i> tactical, cascading, gingerly, enameled, concealment, luminous, valiant</li>
<li><i>Among the Hidden:</i> squinted, welling, giddy, deranged, bereavement, unbidden, exempt</li>
<li><i>Once Upon a Marigold:</i> exhilarated, dismissive, trousseau, mutiny, demented, tankards</li>
<li><i>The Goose Girl: </i>silvery, betrothed, noticeably, vanquished, endeavors, coercive, negotiations</li>
<li><i>The Bad Beginning:</i> puttanesca, obnoxious, explanatory, horrendous, testily</li>
</ul>
<br />
Once our readers successfully decode these multisyllabic words, they will sometimes recognize the words and their meanings. Other times, they'll need to look to context to discover the meanings. Occasionally, context will be no help - but our readers will be ready with the correct or near-correct pronunciation when the opportunity presents to learn the meaning.<br />
<br />
Developmentally, older readers put great value on the length of the words they can decode. Ask nearly any struggling older reader if they would like to be able to read GIGANTIC words, and they will enthusiastically reply, "yes!"<br />
<br />
When I begin teaching my struggling older decoders to read multisyllabic words, I start with the "longest" word in the English language. Then I scaffold and support them to decode and read it. Their pride and increased confidence is immediate. They are impressed with their words and impressed with themselves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCqproY7A9tsxFIFOX9s5eB11kO85qvukKSnRR1sjxgG_2V3ldKX2V1t0Qkls1x1SM376dNcyC0aWjuz_FodvziXSaREd4_H-lGPMXZvpI2WU1t2HKzqAD4SXq5k96uFK4Zs-2sryMPMn/s1600/Slide3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCqproY7A9tsxFIFOX9s5eB11kO85qvukKSnRR1sjxgG_2V3ldKX2V1t0Qkls1x1SM376dNcyC0aWjuz_FodvziXSaREd4_H-lGPMXZvpI2WU1t2HKzqAD4SXq5k96uFK4Zs-2sryMPMn/s640/Slide3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, once I've taught them how to decode gigantic words <a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203#editor/target=post;postID=4888133424337507198;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=15;src=postname">(here)</a>:<br />
<i><span style="color: #bf9000;">~</span><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203#editor/target=post;postID=4888133424337507198;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=15;src=postname" style="color: #bf9000;">TEACHING YOUR STUDENTS HOW TO DECODE MULTISYLLABIC WORDS</a><span style="color: #bf9000;">~</span></i><br />
<br />
it's time to read <i>The Word Collector</i> and share the fun of collecting words.<br />
<br />
Jerome, in Peter Reynolds' <i>The Word Collector</i>, collects words large and small, reveling in their beauty.<br />
<br />
He enjoys words whose meanings resonate, and words enchanting simply for their sounds - "multi-syllable words that sounded like little songs" - torrential, infinitesimal, vociferous, effervescent.<br />
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkmRiQu1f7qh8mbX0Z2QDg1qVFkwoySCUlv1fxRaMpy9yLV27QhsB_QPig4g4C_NowdT5FIaq_4D4gYVydlNzYkVLxy5NL8i3hC6vMz-unYCRB6U5gUF7Gwb4TUVtOlsA8Zr3Hy1vT_mZ/s1600/Slide6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkmRiQu1f7qh8mbX0Z2QDg1qVFkwoySCUlv1fxRaMpy9yLV27QhsB_QPig4g4C_NowdT5FIaq_4D4gYVydlNzYkVLxy5NL8i3hC6vMz-unYCRB6U5gUF7Gwb4TUVtOlsA8Zr3Hy1vT_mZ/s640/Slide6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">The MENTOR TEXT</span></h3>
<i>The Word Collector</i> is a simple, easy read. Its illustrations are a bit young for older audiences, but its themes are universal. With some groups, I might use the book as a jumping off spot for the ideas the book introduces, rather than spending a lot of time on the pages themselves. Other groups will enjoy the story as is.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
TIMING: How much time we spend on this activity depends on how much time we have available and what else we need to cover. <br />
<br />
I try to keep in mind that the purpose is celebrating and cherishing words. How much time I give an activity is also determined by how much the topic has captured the interest of a particular group. Each group is different. What enthralls one group can leave other students cold. <br />
<br />
If some of my readers don't enjoy the collecting activities, I <span style="color: #bf9000;">differentiate</span> by redirecting them to other activities designed to build their decoding, vocabulary or comprehension skills. I can come back to word appreciation another time in another format. For struggling older readers, there's no time to waste!<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">FIVE WORD-COLLECTING ACTIVITIES </span></h2>
<div>
<span style="color: #bf9000;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">1. GIANT COLLAGE OF MULTISYLLABIC WORDS</span></h3>
<div>
I'm envisioning the giant wall of diversity my fifth grade class participated in one year. Every student cut pictures from magazines to represent diversity - of ages, genders, races, religions, abilities, sizes, shapes and looks. Each student created a page of pictures. Each student's page was connected to the other pages in the class. Each class's pages were displayed on the walls outside their classroom. The entire school was one giant collage of the celebration of life. It was beautiful to see.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can go big - like our school's giant school-wide wall of diversity - and create one giant schoolwide wall of word-wonder. Or assemble a single multisyllabic word collage together as a class or small group. Alternatively, each student or family can collect their own page of multisyllabic words.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4GrNid5vAshIyq_9y-849IjpoY4zsA3PGAwJ8wY1tVwbf5YNizvjc7WzNjTNIQGqbqw7xT3wl0rGxr6oUwEFta6Vvj2JLNEclKvgSGu9YGb-wQPOkejVLUHczd31EekDmUOSwK0X2RGN/s1600/collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc4GrNid5vAshIyq_9y-849IjpoY4zsA3PGAwJ8wY1tVwbf5YNizvjc7WzNjTNIQGqbqw7xT3wl0rGxr6oUwEFta6Vvj2JLNEclKvgSGu9YGb-wQPOkejVLUHczd31EekDmUOSwK0X2RGN/s640/collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">WAYS TO COLLECT:</span></h4>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Give each student three or four of the hardest, longest chapter books you can find (the more difficult the text, the easier the task of finding multisyllabic words will be.) Students open the books to any page and skim for interesting words. They can search for the longest words, the weirdest-looking words, mysterious words with unknown meanings, words with cool sounds or the prettiest-looking words. Any multisyllabic words will do. The hunt is on! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The biggest challenge for struggling writers will be copying fatigue and copying the spelling correctly. (If I know a particular group may have trouble copying legibly enough, I ask them to jot page numbers down as they go. We can go back and verify together if needed.)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cut out multisyllabic words you find in print - from mailer advertisements and magazines, etc. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The appeal of this activity is students have the kinesthetic opportunity of cutting and gluing without having to worry about handwriting and spelling challenges. Print can be harder to find these days, though.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Give students notepads or sticky notes to write down interesting multisyllabic words they encounter <i>as they read.</i> This gives them a chance to connect the activity with their real-life reading. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Possible challenges: interrupts reading and can slow readers down, can interfere with comprehension and bog down struggling readers. Some of the same issues with copying correctly and legibly enough as discussed above.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Offer the activity as a home study challenge to families to do together. Lots of multisyllabic words can be found on signs around town, particularly for families that live in suburban areas with lots of strip malls, etc. TV commercials, ads in movie theaters, and website articles all have multisyllabic words. Families can carry notebooks, sticky notes or note cards with them to jot down cool words they find. Or they can gather a bunch of challenging chapter books or coffee table books and open them up to see what delicious multisyllabic words they contain.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>This can be done as a digital activity, with students typing, then dragging and dropping their words into a collage. You can find collage-maker apps for your students' iPads, tablets, etc. Or, your students can simply type - or even better, cut and paste - then drag and drop using whatever word processor they normally use.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
<i><span style="color: #bf9000;">VARIATIONS:</span></i></h4>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Write words using glitter gel pens, or all in crazy styles, or all in crayon, etc.</li>
<li>Struggling readers can keep a small collage page in their journal or interactive notebook or reading folder. Each time the student masters a challenging, multisyllabic word, they add it to their Wonder Word Collage. Readers can periodically read all the words on the collage as a review activity to keep mastery fresh. At the end of each quarter, the teacher photocopies the collage and places it in the student's assessment portfolio. The student takes the original home to show to their family.</li>
<li>You can make the collages into shapes to match the seasons - Fill Valentine Heart shaped paper, or Fall Leaves shaped paper, etc. Write the words on colored paper to match the season.</li>
<li>If your language arts class maintains an interactive notebook, you can devote a few pages to the collection of cool words.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After students collect the printed or written words, they can glue them together to make a collage.<br />
<h4>
<i><span style="color: #bf9000;">TIPS FOR MAKING A COLLAGE:</span></i></h4>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Overlap words when possible</li>
<li>Make sure that all or most of the word is visible and readable. </li>
<li>Try to leave no "white space." Fill up all the gaps, when possible.</li>
<li>One differentiation strategy is to allow struggling readers/writers who find it difficult to collect a large number of words to use words more than once.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
<i><span style="color: #bf9000;">DIFFERENTIATION:</span></i></h4>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Making a collage, while fun for many, can also be frustrating, hard, messy work. Many struggling decoders also face fine motor challenges. Cutting and arranging and gluing - without accidentally covering up words, getting covered in glue, having te words get smunched and ruined - can drive some students to tears.</li>
<ul>
<li>Offer options, such as working in a group and being the "cutter" or the "finder" while a teammate does the gluing.</li>
<li>Allow students to "hire out" the cutting and gluing part. They can barter small jobs in exchange for friends, classmates or family members' help. It's OK to get help on this - the goal is practice and having fun with words.</li>
</ul>
<li>Make the collage from written words, rather than cutting and gluing.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE:</span></div>
</div>
<ul>
<li>Find this simple <span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-COLLAGE-of-COLLECTED-WORDS-4283185" style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">COLLAGE OF WORDS</span></a> </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">FREEBIE</span><span style="color: purple;"> </span></span>in my store <span style="color: #bf9000;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">Reading by Heart</a> <span style="color: #bf9000;">@ </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">TeachersPayTeachers.com</a>. </span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWVOaXf3_Vrkri84_dwtcrb_He80VwebXvAlP2-XN3g2qEdJfqdrkV0NM3lWMwpPDChioqSzfekdfIQUkDKqifguzxL_1lyb41eRFqpZGHUYtQheY197yRfpO4_TKejQHszGvNwspZE-u/s1600/Slide3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWVOaXf3_Vrkri84_dwtcrb_He80VwebXvAlP2-XN3g2qEdJfqdrkV0NM3lWMwpPDChioqSzfekdfIQUkDKqifguzxL_1lyb41eRFqpZGHUYtQheY197yRfpO4_TKejQHszGvNwspZE-u/s320/Slide3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMSumPx_3f1CbbNsH5HcWnaiXA0AeumKLDzXTa1i11prVUfblOGxmG53seE69sAEqtKKW8P6hGvcIDEp-TQQT4JGeyj2TaCP9JfgRC9Qx3EsVLzKysf_1dYiWmhm53VpAXh4HJex7q43n/s1600/Slide2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMSumPx_3f1CbbNsH5HcWnaiXA0AeumKLDzXTa1i11prVUfblOGxmG53seE69sAEqtKKW8P6hGvcIDEp-TQQT4JGeyj2TaCP9JfgRC9Qx3EsVLzKysf_1dYiWmhm53VpAXh4HJex7q43n/s320/Slide2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-COLLAGE-of-COLLECTED-WORDS-4283185">FREEBIE</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">2. ORGANIZING MULTISYLLABIC WORDS by CATEGORIES</span></h3>
You and your students might like to organize the multisyllabic words you collect.<br />
<br />
Here's how Jerome organized his words:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Words We Enjoy Hearing</li>
<li>Words We Enjoy Seeing</li>
<li>"Short and Sweet" Words</li>
<li>"Two-Syllable Treats"</li>
<li>Multisyllable Words "That Sound Like Little Songs"</li>
<li>Words We Don't Yet Know The Meaning Of, But Are "MARVELOUS To Say"</li>
<li>Words Whose "Sounds Are Perfectly Suited To Their Meaning"</li>
<li>Words Organized by Topic: "Science" "Sad" "Poetic" etc.</li>
</ul>
<br />
First, have your students gather fascinating new words, then together you can brainstorm categories into which they might be sorted. There are many topics the words might fall under: sports, pets, warfare, courage, kindness, friendship, learning, change, etc.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>There aren't specific right or wrong answers for what category a word can go under. Keep in mind, the purpose of this activity is simply the enjoyment of words. For example, "vanquished" might go under the category "warfare" or "strong" or "eliminated" etc. It could be under "words we love to say," "these words have a cool sound," or "scary words." </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I recommend <i>collecting</i> the words <i>first,</i> <i>then</i> sorting them into relevant categories. It's much more difficult to pick a category, then try to find enticing new words to fit into that category. It's much less stressful and more successful to sort the words you've already found.</li>
</ul>
As a group activity, you can put the collected words on the white board, then brainstorm the categories and sort them. Another way to approach this is for individuals to create categories in a notebook or an interactive notebook, or on simple lined paper.<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: black;">Individual readers will tackle this project in a variety of ways, consistent with their own styles. Some readers will absolutely become obsessed with collecting and meticulously organizing their words. (I totally love watching that one student who is completely immersed in the challenge or thrilled by the opportunity to organize. I love to step back and watch the amazing things some students can do with an activity!) Other readers may not want to collect words at all.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE:</span></div>
<ul>
<li>Find this simple <span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #bf9000;"><u style="font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-SORT-COLLECTED-WORDS-4279742">SORTING BY CATEGORIES</a></u> FREEBIE</span><span style="color: purple;"> </span></span>in my store <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">Reading by Heart</a> <span style="color: #bf9000;">@ </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">TeachersPayTeachers.com</a>. </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9zPY_2Glpmdbgcoh4RKkljVno-O0ZFx2XZYSBYtKmT6xF_GTbWqyKGJaiSMOVUIEoid0dGSsVCakJGrUO13n9WqSrDn2eoMLznDz8xf_iWi5ze-nXH4NLoYqtqxIL1tSfJKchMdPsiGHj/s1600/Slide2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9zPY_2Glpmdbgcoh4RKkljVno-O0ZFx2XZYSBYtKmT6xF_GTbWqyKGJaiSMOVUIEoid0dGSsVCakJGrUO13n9WqSrDn2eoMLznDz8xf_iWi5ze-nXH4NLoYqtqxIL1tSfJKchMdPsiGHj/s320/Slide2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU34rKoeAw6sdT9G3IvSxsLT3qqhgjcnqwcBBGqAu5fchdxHxPFcw6YlmSB3yufj9HWiXFd8KNVWDiLirwL8uHf8TSsHAMNPO9k72jSGrAtNyukFarikIhYuvxQft0VHbcI6Ytb0yAcMbn/s1600/Slide1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU34rKoeAw6sdT9G3IvSxsLT3qqhgjcnqwcBBGqAu5fchdxHxPFcw6YlmSB3yufj9HWiXFd8KNVWDiLirwL8uHf8TSsHAMNPO9k72jSGrAtNyukFarikIhYuvxQft0VHbcI6Ytb0yAcMbn/s320/Slide1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-SORT-COLLECTED-WORDS-4279742"><span style="color: #bf9000;">FREEBIE</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000;">3. ALPHABETICAL MULTISYLLABIC MINI-DICTIONARY</span></h3>
Another<span style="color: purple;"> </span>way to organize collected words is to list them in an alphabetical<i> </i>mini-dictionary. Your students can keep their own A-Z booklets, or you can keep one for the group altogether.<br />
<br />
Keeping a multisyllabic word collection can be a year-long or shorter-term project.<br />
<br />
You can make these simple dictionary-like journals using spiral notebooks, composition books, 3-hole prong notebooks, lined paper, etc.<br />
<br />
Just label one or two pages with each of the letters of the alphabet, in alphabetical order.<br />
<br />
Students will record their found words on the page corresponding to the first letter of the word - just like in a dictionary.<br />
<br />
This mini-dictionary is formatted much like a traditional Spelling Dictionary - which lists words alphabetically, but omits definitions.<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE:</span></div>
<ul>
<li>Find this simple <span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #bf9000;"><u><i><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-KEEPING-YOUR-COLLECTED-WORDS-A-Z-BOOKLET-4281957">ALPHABETICAL MINI-DICTIONARY</a></i></u> </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">FREEBIE</span><span style="color: purple;"> </span></span>in my store <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">Reading by Heart</a> <span style="color: #bf9000;">@ </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">TeachersPayTeachers.com</a>. </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiBgUdH0u8igjRJmouZvTGoLpFW_BJAfAaw8Wd9KRaIpxnCPHaHnsJBtHnUzRWd3Di7rTeWbyDy7N4UGWVZrgPZzjuykXrZfDvJaWr9Lc5I846bJyH69V9WRA0r-hZ16Y65qxt2-AfzEg/s1600/Slide2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuiBgUdH0u8igjRJmouZvTGoLpFW_BJAfAaw8Wd9KRaIpxnCPHaHnsJBtHnUzRWd3Di7rTeWbyDy7N4UGWVZrgPZzjuykXrZfDvJaWr9Lc5I846bJyH69V9WRA0r-hZ16Y65qxt2-AfzEg/s320/Slide2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0Z2YNMZW_M1yLW0V1WfgINbdi7ZqAmIDRTa4Y__fLptNIw63dU4_S9wxUn39lOWWaw9IVpT2OtqOOHxuHaxnZdQ1WLOivWPQMzK35y6cDNbv_IFwl8-lb5IGhvDDgNZlF04_9YDCe_0i/s1600/Slide3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0Z2YNMZW_M1yLW0V1WfgINbdi7ZqAmIDRTa4Y__fLptNIw63dU4_S9wxUn39lOWWaw9IVpT2OtqOOHxuHaxnZdQ1WLOivWPQMzK35y6cDNbv_IFwl8-lb5IGhvDDgNZlF04_9YDCe_0i/s320/Slide3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-KEEPING-YOUR-COLLECTED-WORDS-A-Z-BOOKLET-4281957"><span style="color: #bf9000;">FREEBIE</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: purple; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #bf9000; text-align: center;">4. MULTISYLLABIC WORDS INTO THE WIND</span></h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf-1ilJtpQ1MOexT29cDmvaQNc4ljISJylqwMID3SGDAb2UiEkGxiryqYXAMmmwmCZo1ybbTpNo0-bhMLv1wJjEn-NhPd8lRAdeV0CIf1owNvOeFHcob6lAkxcqFU_-oLsHMFAWSo5mDe/s1600/Slide2.jpg" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf-1ilJtpQ1MOexT29cDmvaQNc4ljISJylqwMID3SGDAb2UiEkGxiryqYXAMmmwmCZo1ybbTpNo0-bhMLv1wJjEn-NhPd8lRAdeV0CIf1owNvOeFHcob6lAkxcqFU_-oLsHMFAWSo5mDe/s640/Slide2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
SPREAD THE WORDs</span></h2>
<div>
Inspire curiosity and wonder - spread the words!</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #bf9000;">DROP YOUR WORDS INTO TANTALIZING TRAILS OF WORDCRUMBS!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #bf9000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yFUXCAilVlpvr6EXCtQWT5vdKKnUl5g6kyWHSaNyGohk3l1jnqPjqj6vIR4negRDjGvODxp4GeWFGqw-LD-7MOhE4mMsPZKqgI8MEZ_4-QVN30yZGhCeqRp5OwPgnr0WkfzkDzOsFbow/s1600/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+3.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yFUXCAilVlpvr6EXCtQWT5vdKKnUl5g6kyWHSaNyGohk3l1jnqPjqj6vIR4negRDjGvODxp4GeWFGqw-LD-7MOhE4mMsPZKqgI8MEZ_4-QVN30yZGhCeqRp5OwPgnr0WkfzkDzOsFbow/s400/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+3.jpg" width="296" /></a>Jerome "smiled as he emptied his collection of words into the wind."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
You and your students can share your collected words.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Consider collecting and writing, then literally tossing your biodegradable words into the wind.</li>
<li>Find a nature walk and place words under leaves, in tree branches and on rocks.</li>
<li>For a "non-littering" version, students can carefully scatter their collected words around the classroom, school and home.</li>
<li>Place words in nooks and crannies for others to find and enjoy. Tuck them into bookshelves, slide under chairs, hide under baskets, place behind pencil sharpeners<span style="background-color: white;">, deposit onto coffee tables, site on shelves.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1ZMFtV6Dw5OW-4Tor3HCDTMXnl-fXWfe7UiTP_yYL8bLuB0ej7zPUIcWG2oXhsDSdnytoDpHkCSNjd76IulpPAauKSQw0Vo6HIU0UH5V8u749B_pmro6nULsWELmBhSjd8RW9LYkstCA/s1600/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="794" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1ZMFtV6Dw5OW-4Tor3HCDTMXnl-fXWfe7UiTP_yYL8bLuB0ej7zPUIcWG2oXhsDSdnytoDpHkCSNjd76IulpPAauKSQw0Vo6HIU0UH5V8u749B_pmro6nULsWELmBhSjd8RW9LYkstCA/s400/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+2.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AKsAmwcv7b7TNlWrLfVr0lGYnw5RxqFfuHhT6KC8j3rM_Nku_netSi720X9lWtCDEI0XjJQR6l_rLVSfCPi6EiUlTFpTBTYyU4BY6pLJNysfh9GlE0YVU-7QNbQ8r7B9FJkMAndKbgpO/s1600/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AKsAmwcv7b7TNlWrLfVr0lGYnw5RxqFfuHhT6KC8j3rM_Nku_netSi720X9lWtCDEI0XjJQR6l_rLVSfCPi6EiUlTFpTBTYyU4BY6pLJNysfh9GlE0YVU-7QNbQ8r7B9FJkMAndKbgpO/s400/SHARING+MULTISYLLABIC-WORDS-STUDY+1.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">MORE:</span></div>
<ul>
<li>Find this simple <span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: purple;"><u style="color: black;"><span style="color: purple;"><i><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Decoding-Multisyllabic-Words-SHARE-COLLECTED-WORDS-Reading-Intervention-4287515">SHARING COLLECTED WORDS</a></i></span></u> </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">FREEBIE</span><span style="color: purple;"> </span></span>in my store <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">Reading by Heart</a> <span style="color: #bf9000;">@ </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Reading-By-Heart">TeachersPayTeachers.com</a>. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000; text-align: center;">5. MULTISYLLABIC WORDS SIDE BY SIDE</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EVRTchy_kjKDEQ4111QcKLBEUM6X5q4KMBrGC7vXx2e0Sw69uTdv8RLWBgsarmqufriW3jSi4cocFLx6Xdlik-U0Of0yZiDrjBmnD2jlh5PxT5dzVs9BMNwX-AZ6HilqbfsHE_srs__u/s1600/Slide1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EVRTchy_kjKDEQ4111QcKLBEUM6X5q4KMBrGC7vXx2e0Sw69uTdv8RLWBgsarmqufriW3jSi4cocFLx6Xdlik-U0Of0yZiDrjBmnD2jlh5PxT5dzVs9BMNwX-AZ6HilqbfsHE_srs__u/s640/Slide1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
"Jerome began stringing words together. Words he had not imagined being side by side."<br />
<br />
Rearrange your found words. Let your students have fun putting words together in new, unique pairings.<br />
<br />
Match words for their pleasing sounds or strange or powerful meanings.<br />
<br />
Put together<br />
"Thundering artist"<br />
"Fastening Resources"<br />
"Tropical Philanthropy"<br />
"Roasting Research"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKtyFugUVDaSd13JNsb0dgjyJPlZFLrzkh3v6fEn6aCHhOzLfMYpkr8UBxxpnL6L0BEMdGevY_LxT8EFVfTtHWMTBOy7i_I3Yhmo8M5434N8yhV_e0I1gGIq3S1TTr_v048zb0pTbpXbW/s1600/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKtyFugUVDaSd13JNsb0dgjyJPlZFLrzkh3v6fEn6aCHhOzLfMYpkr8UBxxpnL6L0BEMdGevY_LxT8EFVfTtHWMTBOy7i_I3Yhmo8M5434N8yhV_e0I1gGIq3S1TTr_v048zb0pTbpXbW/s640/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH4ZB0UiqxWiiXKWsiF03SojYrF-SQgEewAt573XeRBUqbXtLJR82Ppdo6sJBm2rdC_lQ81ELRpe75QbVgfq5_81c5-l1pba2oe2Lsgc2-PhjsLGV-pCnJX89Js3whDr1DqNq8y80vNx_/s1600/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH4ZB0UiqxWiiXKWsiF03SojYrF-SQgEewAt573XeRBUqbXtLJR82Ppdo6sJBm2rdC_lQ81ELRpe75QbVgfq5_81c5-l1pba2oe2Lsgc2-PhjsLGV-pCnJX89Js3whDr1DqNq8y80vNx_/s640/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbaPAH_y5eTVHVtRyJIM4jHuFuYPi9yutiscLqyIGMXa-B0G8FN74HmXH4h0P6NHk0iC8Ov5Zgj_iC7M0wBG6M8ph6pNSrhUzmbWFG177n4q6K6vfi8i7xUEe5QlAXJQ8WRymbGXbb0ei/s1600/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="1024" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbaPAH_y5eTVHVtRyJIM4jHuFuYPi9yutiscLqyIGMXa-B0G8FN74HmXH4h0P6NHk0iC8Ov5Zgj_iC7M0wBG6M8ph6pNSrhUzmbWFG177n4q6K6vfi8i7xUEe5QlAXJQ8WRymbGXbb0ei/s640/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6j-CTYypZhR8vlDNmK74jyuOqfi6Sn2CD8u4_uh9oz_N3dlOS4Azyzh3s2sHabWLRX2nL3Mu69QvxlO15o18d42kyOyyWP3c6BpiM_xYK-88KzOig3ytiWqAM54aAwJpzTWlb7J34IXV/s1600/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1024" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6j-CTYypZhR8vlDNmK74jyuOqfi6Sn2CD8u4_uh9oz_N3dlOS4Azyzh3s2sHabWLRX2nL3Mu69QvxlO15o18d42kyOyyWP3c6BpiM_xYK-88KzOig3ytiWqAM54aAwJpzTWlb7J34IXV/s640/PHOTO+PAIRINGS+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">DIFFERENTIATION:</span></h2>
For many struggling and reluctant older readers, words are painful reminders of their struggles and their failures. Even now, some striving readers will have difficulty decoding and recognizing or making sense of gigantic, multisyllabic words.<br />
<br />
Go softly with these activities. Be aware of how your readers are receiving them. Are they helping your readers love words? Or are your struggling readers perceiving these activities as just more hard work and additional opportunities to show their failures to their peers?<br />
<br />
These activities are meant to be about celebrating the joys of trying on new words. The activities are here to help you provide structure. Remember to keep the focus on the celebration and enjoyment - in ways specific to <i>your</i> readers' needs.<br />
<br />
One way to differentiate is to allow readers to work in pairs or small groups to create their collages, keep their mini-dictionaries, or plot and plan their "words into the wind" activities. Some readers work better in pairs, some work better as individuals, some in focused groups. Differentiate by allowing your readers to work in their best style.<br />
<br />
For struggling readers, stick to the modeling stage with these activities. Even guided practice may be at frustration level for some readers. <br />
<br />
However, it's never too early to "Go Big" if <i>you </i>do the work. You CAN use big, gigantic words with your struggling decoders, if you focus on scaffolding and support. Being able to work with gigantic words is a breath of fresh, life-giving air to readers who have been failing at this task for years, and for whom rational "just-right instructional-level reading" keeps them reading "baby words" year after year.<br />
<br />
YOU collect new words you find, and publicly post them or gush about them - whatever is your style. <i>You</i> start and keep a collage of the words you collect. Or a mini-dictionary, or a google document.<br />
<br />
Don't discourage your readers from joining in and helping you add to your stash. Some readers will begin to help. Others won't. That's OK.<br />
<br />
Maybe next year they'll have stronger decoding skills and the activity won't feel so much like failure. Maybe they'll have internalized the pleasure of hearing interesting multisyllabic words.<br />
<br />
Maybe they'll have fallen in love with words.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">
MORE</span></h3>
For more ideas TO INSPIRE WONDER and CURIOSITY in your upper-grade classroom, check out these blog posts:<br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-5d2275cf-7fff-d4b8-f8c2-586e7416f30d"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2470132318870622203#editor/target=post;postID=3440656521573483175;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=postname"><img alt="Ideas to Inspire Wonder & Curiosity" height="640" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Jg7lKGiMYBRTH_Ld2_UrNb35bmw0z0GMfEcSQlf1MEJaFRUoxUH7wo_5AR0tEIU99ZHYdapASafsISb_MXTWFjQmfbW82FsfLxVLN_46je2Pk7QtliPkZJMzros47sz09t6qtNHn" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" title="" width="384" /></a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span id="docs-internal-guid-f784cbd4-7fff-054d-e0b1-53d0510f4253"></span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">From Left to Right:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tarheelstateteacher.com/blog/mini-research-human-body-systems-writing-riddles" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">"Writing Riddles" for Mini-Research in Science</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Tarheelstate Teacher</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/01/3-ways-to-strengthen-student.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">3 Ways to Strengthen Student Questioning During Reading</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Think Grow Giggle</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mixandmath.com/blog/mathematical-curiosity-through-word-problems" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Modifying Math Word Problems to Encourage Curiosity</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mix and Math</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.feelgoodteaching.com/2019/01/5-ways-inspire-wonder-curiosity.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Wonder Walls & STEM Challenges</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Kerry Tracy</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.readingbyheart.com/2019/01/word-wonders-collecting-multisyllabic.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Word Wonders: Collecting Multisyllabic Words</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Reading by Heart</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mossyoakmusings.blogspot.com/2019/01/using-visible-thinking-to-read-with.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Using Visible Thinking to Read With Wonder</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Wild Child's Mossy Oak Musings</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://theowlteacher.com/stimulate-curiosity-through-questioning" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Stimulating Curiosity through Questioning</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | The Owl Teacher</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lovelearningtpt.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Inspiring Curiosity through Technology</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Love Learning</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.triedandtrueteachingtools.com/2019/01/mathematicians-inspire-wonder-curiosity.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Mathematicians Inspire Wonder & Curiosity</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Tried and True Teaching Tools</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://elementaryinquiry.com/2019/01/03/interactivekwlchart/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Taking KWL Charts Up a Notch</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Elementary Inquiry</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mikeydteach.com/curiosity-in-the-classroom/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Curiosity in the Classroom: Five Steps to Engagement and Creativity</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> | Mikey D Teach</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-65713157476818068122017-11-04T15:36:00.008-07:002021-07-26T16:19:07.745-07:00Advanced Phonics - Beyond Simple Sound-Symbol Correspondence<h4 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyNBT2875zOxbu4p1wFpTK456IRWnXQMKHoLEtrEkoKn9gj8tLt3yxcwUDc0IisYdumIC9YXLJlQrjYWsJd50Lu-7hVl1PabDbdIwXK39ECta4H7VoV61srKU_F5JD0U1Kg9YN2oInfj2/s1600/LETTERS+WHITE+FLYING+JUMBLE_original+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyNBT2875zOxbu4p1wFpTK456IRWnXQMKHoLEtrEkoKn9gj8tLt3yxcwUDc0IisYdumIC9YXLJlQrjYWsJd50Lu-7hVl1PabDbdIwXK39ECta4H7VoV61srKU_F5JD0U1Kg9YN2oInfj2/s640/LETTERS+WHITE+FLYING+JUMBLE_original+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></h4><div class="p1">
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Beyond Simple Sound-Symbol Correspondence</h1>
Some struggling intermediate-grade readers have difficulty believing us when we try to teach them advanced phonics rules. <span><a name='more'></a></span>They learned the basic rules of one-to-one sound-symbol correspondence long ago.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> They learned those rules easily, in the beginning, and now they're fiercely loyal to that learning. </span>For these students, those rules are absolute.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are unable to adjust to new, contradictory rules which give four sounds for the letter y (with a reasonable pattern for guessing which one to use) or the suffix “cious” (<i>shus</i>), which, by their rules, should be something like <i>kih-ah-us</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
For many years I thought these students found it difficult to memorize more advanced rules.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I thought the problem was their capacity for memorization.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Memorization was the focus of my mostly futile efforts. </span><br />
<br />
<!--more--><br />
In truth, many of them just plain didn’t believe me when I said, "In certain cases “si” spells <i>sh,"</i> or "Did you know “ce” has an <i>s</i> sound?"<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
They muttered to themselves, under their breath, “S-i” doesn’t spell <i>sh</i>; it spells <i>sih</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Doesn’t this teacher know anything?”<br />
<br />
Many of our struggling readers need explicit help to understand and cope with the concept of multiple rules. Some students who learned that g=<i>guh</i> and y=<i>yuh</i> will, without help, continue to resist into adulthood the idea that g can also =<i>juh</i> and y can also =<i>ee </i>or <i>ih</i> or <i>eye</i>.<br />
<br />
Third-grader Isaac had a good grasp of sound-symbol correspondence.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He knew the basic rules of phonics.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He was certain what sounds b, t, i, a, sh, ch, th, ea, str, and<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>gr make. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
However, as his reading level increased, it became clear he didn’t know what sounds “tion” or “-ation” make.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I attempted to teach him.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I explained that the letters “-tion” were almost always pronounced <i>shun</i>, often at the end of a word.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I wrote “tion” and asked him what sound it made.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He said, "<i>tih-on</i>."<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"></span>I explained again what sound “tion” makes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He pronounced it after me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I wrote it again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He said, "<i>tih-on</i>."<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I tried explaining that in English we have words from other languages that come with their own set of rules.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In latin, “ti” makes the “<i>sh</i>” sound.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>So, strange as it seems, “tion” is pronounced <i>shun</i>. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We pointed to the “tion” and pronounced it together - <i>shun</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Then I wrote it again, pointed to it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He said, “<i>tih-on.</i>”<br />
<br />
I tried again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I explained that “tion” is common at the ends of many words.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“<i>Vacation</i> is the word I used to remember it when I was learning to read and spell,” I told him.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“I love vacations.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I thought perhaps adding positive emotion - thoughts of vacation - to the memorization process would help.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I repeated: “t-i-o-n” is <i>shun</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded and repeated it after me.<br />
<br />
The next day, we tried again:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“<i>Tih-on</i>.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I began to wonder if Isaac had short-term memory problems.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Maybe I was trying to force him to memorize something he wasn’t capable of learning.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He had learned all the basic phonics rules.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Why not this one? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Maybe he needed more visuals.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I wrote “<i>shun</i> = tion” and "tion = <i>shun</i>" on a small white board.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He read it with me. “Tion"<i> </i>equals “<i>shun</i>.”<br />
<br />
His turn.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> I pointed to the white board. </span>“<i>Tih-on.</i>” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Maybe he didn't understand the language I was using. “<i>Equals </i>means they’re the same.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Shun </i>equals “tion” I read and vice versa. He repeated after me. “Tion equals “<i>shun</i>.” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
"<i>Shun</i>" is the way we say "<i>t-i-o-n</i>."<br />
<br />
"When you see the letters <i>"t-i-o-n"</i> in a word, we say <i>"shun."</i><br />
<br />
"Let's pronounce this together ...<i> "shun."</i><br />
<br />
“Now you try it. “Tion" equals..." I prompted and pointed.<br />
<br />
His turn. "<i>Tih-on.</i>”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I thought about losing it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“T-i-o-n is pronounced <i>shun</i>.” I pointed again, and insisted, a little more vehemently. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We said it together. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“Shun equals <i>tih-on</i>,” he repeated after me.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span>“Why do you keep saying <i>tih-on</i>?” I finally asked in desperation. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“Because it doesn’t have an “s-h.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“S-h” spells <i>sh</i>.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I explained the language situation again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>His turn again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“<i>Tih-on</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It doesn’t have an “s-h," he said.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSu_5QICj-GNOXXUxsIwr3JvmZQxrTgcdcB_BTlVKpqVKQaxugo9kB7oTQfbpjRkzTamoOgjltF0AlSqmZ5hIAEaqx4zQRkCGLmM7YQEBZyZH3E7yuNmfN1Cqt-pauC3wc9qUJJzW22PyK/s1600/abstract+lightbulb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1278" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSu_5QICj-GNOXXUxsIwr3JvmZQxrTgcdcB_BTlVKpqVKQaxugo9kB7oTQfbpjRkzTamoOgjltF0AlSqmZ5hIAEaqx4zQRkCGLmM7YQEBZyZH3E7yuNmfN1Cqt-pauC3wc9qUJJzW22PyK/s640/abstract+lightbulb.jpg" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally, the lightbulb went on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Finally, the lighbulb went on.<br />
<br />
"You don't believe me!" I said, somewhat in shock.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegO0zTTJ65hYwdvGi4RiLFX4_U72Iwekfvmj1E46ZTSal2ivVJMei8fSlRz8cGB0DsjKc8cjiXLhWp7CGh__AC2TzxSvmE-xq45OHoRr9D3caYEj1PChcoH4ZUYCxrQfQ2pFVtl340Vke/s1600/Depositphotos_19023741_xl-2015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegO0zTTJ65hYwdvGi4RiLFX4_U72Iwekfvmj1E46ZTSal2ivVJMei8fSlRz8cGB0DsjKc8cjiXLhWp7CGh__AC2TzxSvmE-xq45OHoRr9D3caYEj1PChcoH4ZUYCxrQfQ2pFVtl340Vke/s640/Depositphotos_19023741_xl-2015.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
He smiled in confirmation.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“S-h” spells <i>sh</i>,” he said.<br />
<br />
I grabbed his hand.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“Come on,” I grinned.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“Let’s go see what everyone else thinks.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Let’s see if anyone else agrees with me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>OK?”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I asked.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
He nodded.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXD2cpsOYsNSBF7jjIC2oXvgBryg8OWhAFg1mZSC49nGzI_q4ti0LMqUD2TDDZpudkemvWz8dCGkxtqsBYTRPtdD8Iauy4Yj9TJvlBSceutRPefsnkdEdVgWYzH0TWgcHn3gtzQX8sQuU/s1600/Advanced+Decoding+struggling+readers+copy+machine+teacher.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1167" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXD2cpsOYsNSBF7jjIC2oXvgBryg8OWhAFg1mZSC49nGzI_q4ti0LMqUD2TDDZpudkemvWz8dCGkxtqsBYTRPtdD8Iauy4Yj9TJvlBSceutRPefsnkdEdVgWYzH0TWgcHn3gtzQX8sQuU/s640/Advanced+Decoding+struggling+readers+copy+machine+teacher.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
At the copy machine, we asked the nearest teacher.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“How would you say this?” I asked, pointing to the “tion” written on the white board.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“<i>Shun</i>,” was the answer.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“He doesn’t believe me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There’s no “s-h,” I grinned.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
The copy machine teacher - who happened to be an ex-high school English teacher - nodded and smiled and explained to Isaac about foreign words in English.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We thanked her and went on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikd6M4URCTtgWzRpnbOIuUTqUTTmdLswcOrHRtgMXIsKMSj3XGhdyknH3JZLJPjRLePbg7xGA-iqAa16JturjZ4yPQUWI7nBgW-1T7nAzIoY_05Goa-ET8pGjJZK9ohiMtNhcIRTUZ1bus/s1600/Advanced+Decoding+school+secretary.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikd6M4URCTtgWzRpnbOIuUTqUTTmdLswcOrHRtgMXIsKMSj3XGhdyknH3JZLJPjRLePbg7xGA-iqAa16JturjZ4yPQUWI7nBgW-1T7nAzIoY_05Goa-ET8pGjJZK9ohiMtNhcIRTUZ1bus/s640/Advanced+Decoding+school+secretary.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Next stop was the office.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We asked the secretary if we could ask her a question.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“How would you say this?” I asked.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She answered - <i>shun</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“But there’s no “s-h,” I replied.<br />
<br />
She explained.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwKBwFHM1Ur4Qkr2ompP3YFRyzQvdKPtcb3_FBk9LOq3w5gjoHI0T5wamRzbo4XsUm_Sv3SQAUousVY1Nm-u8sXErACbAkVY72mfEKHb_hoy7U_X21Z8TowlKFTK56PSDXPxuFhn2cuLd/s1600/Advanced+Decoding+male+teacher.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1105" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwKBwFHM1Ur4Qkr2ompP3YFRyzQvdKPtcb3_FBk9LOq3w5gjoHI0T5wamRzbo4XsUm_Sv3SQAUousVY1Nm-u8sXErACbAkVY72mfEKHb_hoy7U_X21Z8TowlKFTK56PSDXPxuFhn2cuLd/s640/Advanced+Decoding+male+teacher.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We found a teacher in the hallway working on a project.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We asked him.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“<i>Shun.</i><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There are some crazy words in English!” he replied.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpFuOUnbSEyPWmroa_oO3GgeYpntMONqSHOmCJWUrjp_LvW2XfKKjBgYdfU5ki7nMgtg3PQLQMzNNP0Pwv1iRk9YJ7h_n1pHbJOGRJyG-FCatt-9ldFvPmwGgxWJ8QAPeBZtr0zRbbiGh/s1600/Advanced+Decoding+librarian+and+teacher.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpFuOUnbSEyPWmroa_oO3GgeYpntMONqSHOmCJWUrjp_LvW2XfKKjBgYdfU5ki7nMgtg3PQLQMzNNP0Pwv1iRk9YJ7h_n1pHbJOGRJyG-FCatt-9ldFvPmwGgxWJ8QAPeBZtr0zRbbiGh/s640/Advanced+Decoding+librarian+and+teacher.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
At the library, we found a fifth-grade teacher and the librarian talking together.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We asked our question again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Same answer.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Each adult took the question seriously and each carefully bent closer to Isaac to explain how the English language worked.<br />
<br />
I set off to find another opinion.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“OK, OK,” Isaac grinned.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“I get it!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s <i>shun</i>. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We don’t need to ask anyone else.”<br />
<br />
It was four days before I saw Isaac again.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When we sat down at our table, I wrote “tion” on the white board and pointed to it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“<i>Shun</i>,” Isaac replied and smiled.<br />
<br />
I think of the students in my reading groups who, through the years, have acted as if they were tied to their chairs with bright lights in their eyes, valiantly resisting my attempts to brainwash them with advanced phonics concepts.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
They had steadfastly resisted abandoning their belief in the sound-symbol correspondence they knew to be true.<br />
<br />
It wasn’t, as I had thought all this time, that they were having difficulty memorizing advanced phonics concepts. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I just needed to find a way to convince them of the truth of what I was trying to teach them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Isaac needed to find a way to accept what to him was a form of heresy. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Five busy adults willing to take a moment away from what they were doing to personally explain it to him was a powerful lesson.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Their individual attention helped him to take the risk of reframing his entire world-view as it related to the decoding rules of the English language.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Now I can teach him “-acious” (<i>ay shus)</i>, the many sounds of “ou”, all four sounds of y.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Now, maybe he’ll believe me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-17392053147000712102017-11-04T12:11:00.001-07:002021-07-24T10:09:29.271-07:00MAKING SENSE OF COMPLEX SENTENCE STRUCTURES and UNUSUAL USES OF EVERYDAY VOCABULARY<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">“Sailing Through Sentences”</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAd_NXzAe6v_TZIXS3sThJjpI9sbOOCgCY35JCMVk5JxXru_BVm2P0eOlfqhyphenhyphene8DMmMwX4l23W_8AMt19kOV3IJoKu27ZsV5k1p5gpFiC-Olclsd9wkQqdZrvCQ58QhW33HNGDtLZCCIRe/s1600/COMPLEX+SENTENCES+VOCABULARY+SAILOR+GIRL+WITH+BOOK+cropped.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1275" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAd_NXzAe6v_TZIXS3sThJjpI9sbOOCgCY35JCMVk5JxXru_BVm2P0eOlfqhyphenhyphene8DMmMwX4l23W_8AMt19kOV3IJoKu27ZsV5k1p5gpFiC-Olclsd9wkQqdZrvCQ58QhW33HNGDtLZCCIRe/s640/COMPLEX+SENTENCES+VOCABULARY+SAILOR+GIRL+WITH+BOOK+cropped.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
A crucial area of reading skill - one that trips up many intermediate readers - is the complex sentence structures that they begin to encounter in fourth, fifth and sixth-grade level books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span><a name='more'></a></span></span>Many intermediate readers have mastered decoding, yet still experience difficulty reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These inexperienced readers have trouble moving from reading simple sentence construction that uses plain vocabulary to more complex sentence structures that employ more complex vocabulary.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My struggling students get caught on vocabulary usages like these:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“Louie, gun in hand, came <i><u>sailing</u></i> through, his <i><u>drawn</u></i> pistol in his hand.” (<i>Chocolate Fever</i>, by Robert Kimmel Smith - page 77.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b><br />
<!--more--><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To most of us, it’s obvious that it isn’t possible to literally <i>sail</i> through the bedroom - there isn’t any water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we know that there are several meanings of the word <i>drawn</i>, and we select the one that makes the most sense in the context.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But to many unsteady readers, words are literal and they have never experienced them any other way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When many inexperienced readers read sentences like this one, they think literally sailing through a bedroom is absurd - just one more example of how ludicrous this whole reading thing is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being game to try what we ask of them, they attempt desperately to figure out a way that sailing through a bedroom might make sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They construct elaborate scenarios, none of which makes sense, and eventually give up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Making sense of this reading stuff is just too much work!” they think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Other people may enjoy reading nonsense,” they conclude, but such gibberish is just not for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Students who have limited experience using the language often have a literal-minded understanding of language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These students believe that words and their meanings must have a one-to-one correspondence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Students who believe words have one - and only one - fixed meaning picture Louie, sporting sailor hat and boat shoes - tiller in hand - holding a crayon drawing of a pistol, sailing through his bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Inexperienced readers also assume that sentence structures are always simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, noun, then verb, sometimes adjectives before the noun, and adverbs after the verb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long, complicated sentences - like many of those in this passage, which wend their way across the page, taking detour after detour and using a variety of punctuation in strange ways - lose the inexperienced reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
“ONE VERY EFFECTIVE ANSWER IS INTENSIVE READING."</h4>
<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One very effective answer is intensive reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What these readers need is the opportunity to meet words over and over in all their contexts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reading books with progressively longer and more complex sentence structures strengthens readers’ brains and lets them know to expect linguistic detours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRod3H2DJYAgrbez8Lh498o6zFcQ0XCTgGEaLOQfAblkFJzB7qwlR4MUOH468frWDxiNHIy8q_1lrynAGvNe05fY31hRp7yJHNcly9W8UDQeTfDihWFkhILUPkguIEIm_0ctxi6EZIpW50/s1600/COMPREHENDING+COMPLEX+SENTENCE+STRUCTURES+Winding+road+sign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1568" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRod3H2DJYAgrbez8Lh498o6zFcQ0XCTgGEaLOQfAblkFJzB7qwlR4MUOH468frWDxiNHIy8q_1lrynAGvNe05fY31hRp7yJHNcly9W8UDQeTfDihWFkhILUPkguIEIm_0ctxi6EZIpW50/s640/COMPREHENDING+COMPLEX+SENTENCE+STRUCTURES+Winding+road+sign.jpg" width="626" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Opening a book signals the brain, “Winding road ahead!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t worry, the twists and turns you about to experience are normal and to be expected.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a reader has met up with strange, elaborate sentence constructions repeatedly, he no longer assumes that there are only one or two ways to build a sentence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is no longer a sentence greenhorn, but knows his way around a complex paragraph, is an old hand at weaving his way through a variety of sentence types.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the same manner, he recognizes when familiar words are being used in unfamiliar contexts - he’s seen them used like this before; they’re nothing to be shocked at.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Voluminous reading can be augmented with exercises designed to help readers expect a variety of additional meanings for old familiar words. Other activities can help readers practice reading unusual and complicated sentence structures.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h4>
“IF I SPOT SOMETHING I THINK MIGHT TRIP UP THIS READER, WE'LL STOP TO DRAW IT OUT, ACT IT OUT, OR CHAT ABOUT IT.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></h4>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
When I’m reading with my struggling comprehenders, I keep my eye out for unusual uses of vocabulary and complicated sentence structures. If I spot something I think might trip up this reader, we’ll stop to draw it out, act it out or chat about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll remind them that lots of words have more than one meaning and that sentences can be long, winding and unusual.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With this support, my struggling comprehenders truly <i>can</i> sail through their reading!</div>
<br />
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-66910211298598197452017-11-04T07:33:00.002-07:002021-07-24T10:10:35.597-07:00COMPREHENSION STRUGGLES: USING PRIOR KNOWLEDGE<h4 style="text-align: center;">
"Whirligigs in the Back Yard"</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33tfSIcwes7L6nL6yAWu7WTCavv9wt-lSdLveRPC2MgmVhPBLlVODRMFSO-RBNl4Z3xBlcwTisDDsKNKX6PeFvhWG_5grIy9apivki_pb57BH4M9kH3XL998qvk8uSvFr1ye3X3r8nkL1/s1600/Comprehension+Prior+Knowledge+whirligig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1075" data-original-width="1600" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33tfSIcwes7L6nL6yAWu7WTCavv9wt-lSdLveRPC2MgmVhPBLlVODRMFSO-RBNl4Z3xBlcwTisDDsKNKX6PeFvhWG_5grIy9apivki_pb57BH4M9kH3XL998qvk8uSvFr1ye3X3r8nkL1/s640/Comprehension+Prior+Knowledge+whirligig.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Some students struggle to utilize their own prior knowledge.<span><a name='more'></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We know that readers need schema - life experiences - in order to understand what they read. At first I thought my job would be to make sure my students had life experiences they could bring to their reading. I believed that my readers who struggled with comprehension simply lacked those life experiences.<br /><br />
I was surprised to learn that some of my struggling comprehenders had schema, but didn't use it. I was astounded to discover that some struggling readers seemed to believe so strongly that the "fiction" books they were reading were "not true," that they kept their own lives strictly separated from their reading. Their comprehension suffered because they were unable to use what they had learned from their own unique encounters with life to understand the experiences of the characters they read about.<br />
<br />
These readers don't know it's OK to bring their own knowledge to their reading.<br />
<br />
Suzanne was stumped by the word "whirligig." Rather than feeling a moment's frustration from her encounter with a word she didn't know, she shut down completely. She was unable to move on, and lacked the workaround skills to get past this roadblock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAqlPvhn3TijWezwvpZ8O_TmkeG9F294JWDt2p4q23-ANSJ_IewTL30toI-CLmyAuNJdNLUJRQas-jS-Vu0sU0v4xEhW4-mc40gQ63gTkCwyc6pP6A8jGufkce025gCOAQWbQ5n5As_8_/s1600/Struggling+to+Comprehend+girl+reader.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAqlPvhn3TijWezwvpZ8O_TmkeG9F294JWDt2p4q23-ANSJ_IewTL30toI-CLmyAuNJdNLUJRQas-jS-Vu0sU0v4xEhW4-mc40gQ63gTkCwyc6pP6A8jGufkce025gCOAQWbQ5n5As_8_/s640/Struggling+to+Comprehend+girl+reader.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I sat down with her.<br />
<br />
At first, I focused on trying to teach her some of the workarounds good readers use when they come to a word they don't know. We talked about context clues and substituting other words that might fit.<br />
<br />
When that didn't help, I explained to her that one option readers have is to simply go on with the story when they run into a roadblock they can't figure out. Sometimes something in the story will help the reader understand it later. I tried to teach her to be on the lookout for that information as she read on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_vibyKRpW81FiL9q1TKNsFXzFRGhmiLDzUNnKIudSPz5VBdi1JVhZ9QWpzemf1GPphlKasLlaWLr40HLrlYW5ONgB-byEVRYW0SeBZWYOHGfU7IwHKawEbpXX9SqY8WwC4z9ZfkUwFJz/s1600/Comprehension+Strategy+Keep+Going.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1004" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_vibyKRpW81FiL9q1TKNsFXzFRGhmiLDzUNnKIudSPz5VBdi1JVhZ9QWpzemf1GPphlKasLlaWLr40HLrlYW5ONgB-byEVRYW0SeBZWYOHGfU7IwHKawEbpXX9SqY8WwC4z9ZfkUwFJz/s640/Comprehension+Strategy+Keep+Going.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To no avail. Suzanne was distratcted by the fact that she did not know what a whirligig was.<br />
<br />
My understanding of whirligigs is minimal. I've rarely ever seen one. As we say in the comprehension biz, my schema for whirligigs is almost nonexistent.<br />
<br />
I explained what I could of them. We read in detail what the story had to say about whirligigs. I showed her the picture of whirligigs that was on the cover of the book. Then we went to the dictionary.<br />
<br />
She still didn't get it.<br />
<br />
I explained that if a person has never seen a thing, it sometimes makes it difficult to understand about that thing.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, Suzanne said, "Oh."<br />
<br />
Turns out her grandpa has whirligigs. She has seen them before. She has them at her house.<br />
<br />
I'm confused. If she has whirligigs, then she's the one who's got schema! She knows more than I do!<br />
<br />
So we talked about taking the things you know from your own life and using them to understand the story.<br />
<br />
It became clear when we talked that Suzanne didn't know she could do that. She didn't understand that it was OK to mix up the two worlds.<br />
<br />
<h3>
"Rather than struggling from lack of reading ability, these readers simply suffer from faulty thinking." </h3>
<br />
She was faithfully following another rule: come heck or high water - never mix up reality with fiction. I learned from Suzanne that some of our struggling readers are valiantly trying to follow the rules, do the right thing, do as they believe they've been asked. They don't understand why we keep asking them to break faith with the rules they believe we've taught them. Rather than struggling from lack of reading ability, these readers simply suffer from faulty thinking.<br />
<br />
I gave her stickies to use, took her to our comprehension strategies bulletin boards and showed her how to share when she made a cool connection between her life and the lives of those she was reading about.<br />
<br />
I invited her to please mix up the ideas in her head from her own life with the ideas she met in her reading. I asked her to mix them like watercolors and let them run like rainbows all over her reading.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jp3njabPhpktQ2n5TnRvYZw34EfnOhIETDb0TyOr_Xw2k_0SyB2zySI2f3lvjMLU56kI6VKDoarn_RZWwf19o52JaoZGNz3srKQqVJjaEseX_8Jy2YSwGstbeAshHYuJ02pZ1yz1PB89/s1600/Use+Schema+when+Reading+Fiction.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jp3njabPhpktQ2n5TnRvYZw34EfnOhIETDb0TyOr_Xw2k_0SyB2zySI2f3lvjMLU56kI6VKDoarn_RZWwf19o52JaoZGNz3srKQqVJjaEseX_8Jy2YSwGstbeAshHYuJ02pZ1yz1PB89/s640/Use+Schema+when+Reading+Fiction.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-85468929100609084772017-10-27T08:39:00.004-07:002021-07-24T10:11:09.882-07:00SETTING GOALS: KEEPING EYES ON THE PRIZE<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIoPYccHnO_n0PE7hzRPqUyiM0RCKjQw-Io1DW01ALw55eNyC4VW2FSpK3A-oJpXNwb_G_9AWtsEZiST9w_yIahOoXxMAmqNVWUIdZd7Kq__Gkgc36Sn_cVQAJ9Pwx0V-bwlVc-xLk7wh/s1600/CANDLE+LAMPS+IN+WINDOW+PHOTOCROPPED+B.original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIoPYccHnO_n0PE7hzRPqUyiM0RCKjQw-Io1DW01ALw55eNyC4VW2FSpK3A-oJpXNwb_G_9AWtsEZiST9w_yIahOoXxMAmqNVWUIdZd7Kq__Gkgc36Sn_cVQAJ9Pwx0V-bwlVc-xLk7wh/s640/CANDLE+LAMPS+IN+WINDOW+PHOTOCROPPED+B.original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-converted-space">When teaching struggling upper grade readers, h</span>aving grade-level goals in mind at all times helps keep progress on track.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <span><a name='more'></a></span></span><br />
<br />
It’s important to set our sights on success.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> I</span>t’s essential to be convinced each child can and will read at grade level - soon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">Keeping our eyes on the prize is key. </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="text-align: center;"> </span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="text-align: center;"> </span></div><div class="p1"><h2>
THE GOAL</h2>
<br />
A minimum goal for struggling upper grade readers is to be able to successfully read grade-level books for the grade they will be <i>entering in the fall</i> before they leave their current grade:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>before they leave for the next grade, fifth graders need to be reading beginning sixth-grade level books</li>
<li>fourth-graders will have read several fifth-grade level books</li>
<li>third-graders will have successfully tasted fourth-grade books.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
Since it’s important that kids aren't reading books that are too hard for them, we have a lot of work to do with students who enter a grade reading one, two or three years behind grade level.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
It’s important not to get lost along the way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If a fourth grader is reading second-grade books in October, she has a lot of reading to do to get to fifth-grade books by May or June!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> R</span>eaders need to read three to thirty books at a grade level to be ready for the next level. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
In the New York City Schools, says Lucy Calkins (<i>The Art of Teaching Reading</i>, 2001), fourth-graders were expected to read twenty-five fourth-grade level books “at the level of Beverly Cleary’s <i>Ramona</i> or of Roald Dahl’s <i>Matilda</i>” during the year. Nancie Atwell (<i>In the Middle,</i> 1987) had her students read thirty-five books in a year. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
If a student, or her teacher or parent is satisfied with the student’s reading one book a month, it will be almost impossible to get to grade level by the end of the year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It will be impossible for the fourth-grader reading second-grade books to become a strong fourth-grade reader at this pace.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If this student gets bogged down at the second-grade level - not steadily progressing through second, then third, then fourth grade books during the year - she won't be able to successfully read fifth-grade books by June. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Many times students are unaware of these crucial goals. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They don’t understand why their teacher is pressuring them to read a greater amount or more quickly.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They are unaware of where they need to get to by the end of the year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
A fourth-grade student looks at her <i>Frog and Toad Together</i> (Arnold Lobel) book.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“It’s a good book. I’m reading it nicely. I’m passing the quizzes,” she thinks.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“What’s all the fuss?”<br />
<br />
I often show students a visual picture of the goal. I bring them to the fifth-grade chapter book shelves. I show them the fat two hundred page books with the long, unknown words and the small print with no illustrations. I show them Christopher Curtis’ <i>Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I show them Cornelia Funke’s <i>Inkheart</i> and Gary Paulsen’s <i>Hatchet.</i><br />
<br />
I explain why I want them to read<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>a bunch of <i>Frog and Toads</i></li>
<li>then plenty of harder second-grade chapter books</li>
<li>then a whole lot of third-grade chapter books</li>
<li>then several fourth-grade chapter books </li>
<li>so they can read some of these long fifth-grade chapter books easily, in a snap, in one to two weeks, before the end of the school year. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPS4qxZhmfhkyi4WH2maBQz6cuLuCIh_aQDS7HtknRVbQQWkexkpL_TezOZTjW47fBw90diHP1klqa2FJtFzJ0oaxPuKSLZKtMhF83RQUKhnhp_RDh8xArzylcfL1fVS5fiIorZABv05F/s1600/FROG+AND+TOAD+COVER+THUMB.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="664" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPS4qxZhmfhkyi4WH2maBQz6cuLuCIh_aQDS7HtknRVbQQWkexkpL_TezOZTjW47fBw90diHP1klqa2FJtFzJ0oaxPuKSLZKtMhF83RQUKhnhp_RDh8xArzylcfL1fVS5fiIorZABv05F/s320/FROG+AND+TOAD+COVER+THUMB.png" width="201" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrXxvjCVs0V8uDHjd90wuym-ei1vR3NdLE9q0xXFgblVlL2kAX8ahG0ZIFwutHY706Hlqkd_lI3Ltn8ZQZhBo9zIWSFfMPeeMGRurxSUwn4Uw0G28QtiIrdsUUTH6KW2enhJS-Emz9W9R/s1600/FROG+AND+TOAD+INSIDE+PAGE+PIC+CROPPED.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="947" data-original-width="665" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrXxvjCVs0V8uDHjd90wuym-ei1vR3NdLE9q0xXFgblVlL2kAX8ahG0ZIFwutHY706Hlqkd_lI3Ltn8ZQZhBo9zIWSFfMPeeMGRurxSUwn4Uw0G28QtiIrdsUUTH6KW2enhJS-Emz9W9R/s320/FROG+AND+TOAD+INSIDE+PAGE+PIC+CROPPED.png" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMAKNp7oHzMmF8mHx5fn21wzs-1lmIqnkxhuTGfZfLz2Ply1r5Fp-lkYyib-NEdZ4IOfgYfUeZrb7I4qE2hrz3VOeMmqe7u3Hqna8qLBLSl8xHDMx9_4_Hp6vq-gnoKiyj6AiC3SGlRt6/s1600/WATSONS+GO+TO+BIRMINGHAM+COVER+THUMB.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1093" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMAKNp7oHzMmF8mHx5fn21wzs-1lmIqnkxhuTGfZfLz2Ply1r5Fp-lkYyib-NEdZ4IOfgYfUeZrb7I4qE2hrz3VOeMmqe7u3Hqna8qLBLSl8xHDMx9_4_Hp6vq-gnoKiyj6AiC3SGlRt6/s320/WATSONS+GO+TO+BIRMINGHAM+COVER+THUMB.png" width="216" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aINfVtqvxez1KvDX1RDOE9SFD8FZUKksmLd6_X4nawdDcKfjCKJCsQd11Wd3W8T-mvfc5hsdtcj0mdwIYNEoBKP_lGozyosG52D-QGiWt9Ls7R20-zda0U6PmdB8BfC1cRpc8wMVujYv/s1600/WATSONS+GO+TO+BIRMINGHAM+INSIDE+TEXT+PIC.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="982" data-original-width="766" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5aINfVtqvxez1KvDX1RDOE9SFD8FZUKksmLd6_X4nawdDcKfjCKJCsQd11Wd3W8T-mvfc5hsdtcj0mdwIYNEoBKP_lGozyosG52D-QGiWt9Ls7R20-zda0U6PmdB8BfC1cRpc8wMVujYv/s320/WATSONS+GO+TO+BIRMINGHAM+INSIDE+TEXT+PIC.png" width="248" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="p1">
That’s a lot to ask. That’s a lot of reading! But I know she can do it! That's why I’m in such a hurry for her to read, read, read, read. So she can make it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That’s what all the fuss is about. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
The fourth-grade student looks at me. “I get it,” her eyes say. “I get that I won’t get there if I lose my way sniffing the <i>Frog and Toad</i> flowers till May. I get that she thinks I can do it. I get that she won’t stop ‘till I <i>do</i> do it. I get what all the fuss is about. Bring on the third-grade books!”</div>
<div class="p1">
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<br />
<h3>
WHAT THE TEACHER CAN DO</h3>
</div>
<div class="p1">
To help readers move through the levels to reach their goal, teachers need to know<br />
<ul>
<li>what grade-level reading looks like</li>
<li>what skills are necessary</li>
<li>what steps it takes to get there </li>
<li>what individual kids are capable of</li>
<li>the signs of reading readiness at all stages</li>
<li>book levels.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<br />
<h4>
BOOK LEVELS</h4>
It’s important to know general grade levels of the books available to students.<br />
<br />
Keep in mind that grade levels, though helpful, are also approximate.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
For example, Natalie Babbitt’s <i>Tuck Everlasting</i> can be read by<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>on-grade-level readers in fifth or sixth grade</li>
<li>strong fourth-grade readers</li>
<li>a gifted third-grade reader</li>
<li>or by a seventh, eighth or ninth grader who wants a good read.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I use grade level labels for books as a helpful guide, keeping always in mind that many factors determine the difficulty level of a book. Remember, our goal is helping readers move through difficulty levels to get to the level that will allow them to successfully participate in their learning.<br />
<br />
<h3>
WHAT GRADE LEVEL SEQUENCE SHOULD READERS FOLLOW?</h3>
<br />
The sequence need not be precise. Getting lots of practice and moving forward in the end is the goal. It will work just fine for students to read, for example, a few 2nd grade level books, then some 3rd, then drop back down to pick up a 2nd grade book that looks interesting, try a 5th grade level book, then read some 4th grade books, then back to 5th by the end of the fourth grade year.<br />
<br />
This is because there is value in sometimes reading a challenging book that stretches a reader's stamina for page, chapter and book length, builds vocabulary, and introduces new and more complex sentence structures.<br />
<br />
At other times, it's appropriate to rest and consolidate gains by dropping down a level or more for a book or two.<br />
<br />
Sometimes taking time to read some very, very easy books helps strengthen and develop a reader's fluency.<br />
<br />
Though we're moving students systematically through the levels, flexibility in meeting each reader's needs at each step is also important.<br />
<br />
<h3>
HOW DO I FIND OUT A BOOK'S READING LEVEL?</h3>
<br />
There are several methods of determining and rating book levels:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>F&P Text Level Gradient - also known as Guided Reading by Fountas and Pinnnel</li>
<li>DRA</li>
<li>Lexiles</li>
<li>Reading Recovery</li>
<li>ATOS (Accelerated Reader)</li>
<li>Fry Readability </li>
<li>and more.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
These are all quality methods of evaluating books for difficulty. Schools will usually select one method of rating the difficulty of the books their students are reading. All do a good job of estimating book level. The differences between them make for a thoughtful conversation when deciding which method to adopt; all do the job of guiding students through the levels.<br />
<br />
If your school has selected a particular leveling method, you can find great information about that method online. Once you've selected a leveling system, or had one selected for you, you can start "leveling" the books your students are reading.<br />
<br />
When I started, I was very careful to pencil the book level in the BACK of my books, surreptitiously hidden. The system I was using showed grade levels - 2.5 to indicate a book for readers in the middle of second grade, 4.8 for typical fourth graders toward the end of the school year. I was sensitive to my struggling readers who would be reading books that showed grade levels below their peers.<br />
<br />
Consistently, however, my struggling readers didn't mind the grade level up front, even prominently displayed on the front cover. They knew what level they were successful at, as did their peers. They were more often reassured by seeing a low reading level on the front cover of a book, rather than dismayed. So I eventually started writing the reading level in sharpie on the front cover - easy to see when shopping for a book.<br />
<br />
You can find book levels by searching for a particular title using a number of sites. Below are just a few.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Renaissance's AR grade level equivalent BookFinder: <a href="http://www.arbookfind.com/">http://www.arbookfind.com</a> </li>
<li>Scholastic's Book Wizard: <a href="https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/">https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/</a></li>
<ul>
<li>(shows Guided Reading Level, Lexile Measure and DRA Level)</li>
</ul>
<li>Lexiles: <a href="https://fab.lexile.com/">https://fab.lexile.com/</a></li>
<li>Apps for Apple and Android. For example:</li>
<ul>
<li>Level It Books: <a href="http://levelitbooks.com/">http://levelitbooks.com/</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>
</div>
<ul>
<li>(shows Lexile, Guided Reading, Grade Level Equivalent and DRA level.)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
A SEQUENCE OF SKILLS: CELEBRATING THE SMALL STEPS</h4>
<div class="p1">
<br />
Teachers also need to know what skills and experiences will help their students get to the prize.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They need to be well versed in each small step so they can cheer and applaud and celebrate those successes along the way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs4RlqEH2iT3rcqxW8OEJeWvPIG4bEh36osP03M3PfVBgVcriOs16TQJzmqSTrfv7IPPFTB7Bmg5WIp0MNJnRD7kxLf11lECDP-PnLGjsmO4W7-namhokhTYyrSTXPF74W7MQmIT1OIKb/s1600/CELEBRATING+LEAPING+PHOTO.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs4RlqEH2iT3rcqxW8OEJeWvPIG4bEh36osP03M3PfVBgVcriOs16TQJzmqSTrfv7IPPFTB7Bmg5WIp0MNJnRD7kxLf11lECDP-PnLGjsmO4W7-namhokhTYyrSTXPF74W7MQmIT1OIKb/s640/CELEBRATING+LEAPING+PHOTO.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOeMcpYiJELAWzSxednw5hmz7tLYIUsfZ8lV5XX1nU8cdNLFwO-8HJxeHr-a062ATlwBY621VIyjMyKdCUvbCqlIfzgidKY52fc6qwHBa3kR3BRUruuvB3cnc9mIeBYdDJrKhv48obiKQ/s1600/CELEBRATING+THUMBS+UPoriginal.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOeMcpYiJELAWzSxednw5hmz7tLYIUsfZ8lV5XX1nU8cdNLFwO-8HJxeHr-a062ATlwBY621VIyjMyKdCUvbCqlIfzgidKY52fc6qwHBa3kR3BRUruuvB3cnc9mIeBYdDJrKhv48obiKQ/s640/CELEBRATING+THUMBS+UPoriginal.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMkXFb04kvJwrqHF2reEtdleHmiDbAiMZFIPSjwDv5hhijgiJ-BWB33fvu5al5L15vzTy35BE4ZYK5O2YwNtgMOgNGtQxdWMPbWMp4U2_7IEFf3XRtCrCQb3PPsZXtbWaCredxJAEhaGK/s1600/CELEBRATING+WITH+CONFETTI.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMkXFb04kvJwrqHF2reEtdleHmiDbAiMZFIPSjwDv5hhijgiJ-BWB33fvu5al5L15vzTy35BE4ZYK5O2YwNtgMOgNGtQxdWMPbWMp4U2_7IEFf3XRtCrCQb3PPsZXtbWaCredxJAEhaGK/s640/CELEBRATING+WITH+CONFETTI.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
They need to know how far each of their students must go, so they can understand the tremendously hard work their students are doing to progress two or three years down the reading road in only one year. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsx1xrdXOz1YRKI9G7OY7EzUFbR3ULV-LHcfltzF6-_7H7aQXYNkynfLTUlCI2XEnL7OfiHWTEnGazm31h-4_hia5WsIEgjf9Sg5Roa0xRe2Euw5Thzr09ORy67pnc3bgiUf0x3hmpECnc/s1600/LONG+AND+WINDING+ROAD+PHOTO+original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsx1xrdXOz1YRKI9G7OY7EzUFbR3ULV-LHcfltzF6-_7H7aQXYNkynfLTUlCI2XEnL7OfiHWTEnGazm31h-4_hia5WsIEgjf9Sg5Roa0xRe2Euw5Thzr09ORy67pnc3bgiUf0x3hmpECnc/s640/LONG+AND+WINDING+ROAD+PHOTO+original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
LIGHT THE WAY</h3>
</div>
<div class="p1">
Teachers need to keep their eyes on the goal so their students don’t get bogged down along the way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s the teacher’s job to hold out the lantern, light candles in the windows, stoke the bonfire, tend the lighthouse lamp to light the way if their students get lost along the path.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMggQdOK_JjhTY53HuPlYGrqq3FzIIrMxBvuwIFlEsZK4O6QaZKF7yWlypd_Nsj3TMa5DsOs-jPyr9vS5DCNpt8xqI_udRqlFDqkJAYPZlf7OU9F7hnGFidCC0TpKZGOP-CrhDRVMafHr/s1600/LANTERN+HOLDING+PHOTO+original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1048" data-original-width="1600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMggQdOK_JjhTY53HuPlYGrqq3FzIIrMxBvuwIFlEsZK4O6QaZKF7yWlypd_Nsj3TMa5DsOs-jPyr9vS5DCNpt8xqI_udRqlFDqkJAYPZlf7OU9F7hnGFidCC0TpKZGOP-CrhDRVMafHr/s640/LANTERN+HOLDING+PHOTO+original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAaGZnUqgVf_rRmA_2BkUVFfLsI6rj0pZZY425zQiKniigSNYpZw-lUW8qskh4NcVZGDpd8a6ozAY2Wy0q56y1ushohsZzxDWQoVxmKtgVircNNTc3dyFvJ4SBmaQMqw_9hGkKQgVDAFq4/s1600/CANDLE+LAMPS+IN+WINDOW+PHOTOCROPPED+B.original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAaGZnUqgVf_rRmA_2BkUVFfLsI6rj0pZZY425zQiKniigSNYpZw-lUW8qskh4NcVZGDpd8a6ozAY2Wy0q56y1ushohsZzxDWQoVxmKtgVircNNTc3dyFvJ4SBmaQMqw_9hGkKQgVDAFq4/s640/CANDLE+LAMPS+IN+WINDOW+PHOTOCROPPED+B.original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
It’s important to keep the goal in mind.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If a student is having trouble mastering a level, has drawn a “Go to Jail, Do Not Pass Go” card, is stuck in Molasses Swamp or lost in the Lollipop Woods, it’s important to find another way to get them out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s OK to go back three spaces from time to time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But if we don’t get a “Get Out of Jail” card quickly, our students will never make it past Go. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
It’s important for kids to be reading books that are at their correct level of difficulty.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s important for kids not to read books that are too hard for them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-converted-space">(Keep in mind, though, that the correct level of difficulty varies from student to student, depending on many factors. Most important is the level of challenge on which each student thrives. Each individual reader is different in the amount of difficulty that he can tolerate or that she demands in order to succeed.) </span><br />
<br />
If a student is not progressing, move him down a level to try some success; practicing with fluency can be a good idea. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
But if, after several weeks or months, it isn’t working - try something else.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We can’t get stuck in the meadow asleep in the poppies with the gates to the Emerald City still ahead.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We have to keep moving down the road.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Find another way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Don’t let kids stay behind if there is any way to keep them moving ahead.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>With very few exceptions, they can make the goal.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
<h3>
SKIPPING A STEP</h3>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaUUNbAtpF1dwdwmt_PdCthzsVG_q9sZ5PqEdT1WU7Y1uCKrncRPTt6ipixjLdTL27vP672SUHSt8tzFP-LeA2rBdm902I4H6WyTkPaBwr5suw2e04afpzam1cM_B52FaDwQzhrQqr39c/s1600/KIDS+LEAPFROGGING+PHOTO+original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaUUNbAtpF1dwdwmt_PdCthzsVG_q9sZ5PqEdT1WU7Y1uCKrncRPTt6ipixjLdTL27vP672SUHSt8tzFP-LeA2rBdm902I4H6WyTkPaBwr5suw2e04afpzam1cM_B52FaDwQzhrQqr39c/s640/KIDS+LEAPFROGGING+PHOTO+original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Leap-frogging past as many steps as possible whenever possible is helpful.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
If a third-grade student seems able to jump from primer reading into second-grade chapter books, is begging, pushing, demanding this jump - let him give it a try.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
If it’s too hard he’ll figure that out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It will be OK.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He can try it again later.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
But maybe he knows something we don’t.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>His determination may take him further than our lockstep thinking might, especially if he is fighting us all the way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He just might be able to make it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
If so, we’ve saved precious time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>A student who enters third grade reading at primer level needs to find some way to make up time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgU8qq6R8c88POegzZf-kPt_Q2ngHOoMGZihEAFqVKxNz8FyArpisJ4m75e-HOE6voG_so1SL9ypGt7nzlR1ousw4yvR4NfK3C01fSmvqX3o_DEWYwp6xy8pAIt3Bt3QswIs-kpS8iPqNt/s1600/hour+glass+photo+original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgU8qq6R8c88POegzZf-kPt_Q2ngHOoMGZihEAFqVKxNz8FyArpisJ4m75e-HOE6voG_so1SL9ypGt7nzlR1ousw4yvR4NfK3C01fSmvqX3o_DEWYwp6xy8pAIt3Bt3QswIs-kpS8iPqNt/s640/hour+glass+photo+original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Although the steps are there for a reason - they are the best way for most kids to learn the skills - if an individual can skip them, great!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Though it’s best to read twenty-five books at each grade level before going on, if a student can make it and go on after only three - if that student has three years to make up in one year - I say go for it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Next year, when he is at grade level, he can read twenty-five books at his grade level.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
If necessary, after he is successful, he can go back and pick up a few easier books to make up for anything that got missed along the way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>A student who skipped several levels in one year may need continued support the following year or two to consolidate gains, but he will be able to benefit from his regular grade level instruction.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He will be able to keep up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Comic Sans MS'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Comic Sans MS'; min-height: 16.0px}
span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}
</style>Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-83719833257136260942017-10-27T01:08:00.003-07:002021-07-24T01:44:15.424-07:00THE SECRET IN THE STRUGGLING READER<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdgNDTRUruqU_8hrqN-ylaAuIIFcCmZv5sgdFXvaE_Uo0Y4ZZM_0l_nNl2MnI2bzt86USCDVi3xdBllbw5xQUVsozQASa64Gh1e7F8smPQeNQYVBRUmuAMp7XQS28ro2vtFvPpU5hUQGJ/s1600/DETECTIVE+TEACHER+PHOTO_original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdgNDTRUruqU_8hrqN-ylaAuIIFcCmZv5sgdFXvaE_Uo0Y4ZZM_0l_nNl2MnI2bzt86USCDVi3xdBllbw5xQUVsozQASa64Gh1e7F8smPQeNQYVBRUmuAMp7XQS28ro2vtFvPpU5hUQGJ/s640/DETECTIVE+TEACHER+PHOTO_original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I always wanted to be Trixie Belden or Nancy Drew.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When I was a kid, my best friend Cheri and I spent hours reading detective stories.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Our favorites were <i>Trixie Belden</i> by Julie Campbell and Katheryn Kenny and <i>Nancy Drew</i> by Carolyn Keene. We scoured our suburban backyards and the nearby woods for mysteries. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="p1"><br />
<br />
Mysteries just appeared to Trixie and her brothers, Mart and Brian, and their friends Honey, Di and Jim at Crabapple Farm and the Manor House near the Hudson River town of Sleepyside.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Nancy Drew and friends, George and Bess and boyfriend, Ned, found mysteries abundant in their New York town of River Heights and pursued them in Nancy’s roadster. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9rT1u0raGSxmx78xEf1E6LhpAvNbm-REwFaKmQ0Oe-Dp0Ks3G_y3WuUuwl7NCf1uSsT5o4ybRRJ_2xsnG9cIdbfUK9iZvZes-ljBm9QCuPPhjMFcxSfjkJtu2agcdMROrefREbK3zSVt/s1600/MYSTERY+LETTER+TILES+PHOTO_original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9rT1u0raGSxmx78xEf1E6LhpAvNbm-REwFaKmQ0Oe-Dp0Ks3G_y3WuUuwl7NCf1uSsT5o4ybRRJ_2xsnG9cIdbfUK9iZvZes-ljBm9QCuPPhjMFcxSfjkJtu2agcdMROrefREbK3zSVt/s640/MYSTERY+LETTER+TILES+PHOTO_original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Trixie and Nancy tackled their mysteries with moxie, keen minds, and, as Nancy Drew’s narrator describes, “warm sympathy for those in trouble.”<br />
<!--more--><br />
<br />
Unlike Trixie and Nancy, no matter how hard we tried, Cheri and I never did find a real-life mystery to solve.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>No impostors, missing millionaires, messages in hollow oaks, mysterious buried rings, or runaway robbers appeared in our suburban early 1960’s backyards.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We found no clues to decipher, no secrets to unlock, no messages to decode, no treasures to uncover. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Our young minds were eager to be keen, our souls yearned for moxie and our hearts stood ready with warm sympathy.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Though we hoped against hope that we were wrong, we secretly knew the odds were stacked against us.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We considered the facts: we didn’t live in a mysterious river valley in New York; our western suburbs were too brand new to contain buried old mysteries.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>No one we knew had ever uncovered a real mystery and, oh, yes, the clincher - this was real life and Trixie Belden and Nancy Drew were fiction.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Alas!<br />
<br />
The good news is, years later, I’ve found real-life mysteries.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Cheri would be proud.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I’ve discovered that there really are important mysteries waiting to be solved.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Mysteries that require using a keen mind and a warm, sympathetic heart, and sometimes even moxie, to solve.<br />
<br />
Unraveling the mysteries of my students’ gifts, their talents, their strengths, their reasons for being here takes every bit as much sleuthing as any of Trixie’s or Nancy’s whodunits.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The reading teacher’s detective work requires keen observation, a knack for spotting clues, determination and perseverance in following up on them. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This work demands the detective’s ever-present “warm sympathy for those in trouble.”<br />
<br />
<h2>
THE CASE OF SARENA</h2>
<br />
Sarena was thirty-five picture books behind her goal.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She rarely knew what book she was reading.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She wandered around the reading room in a daze, looking disconnected and unaware of her surroundings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She talked with such a blank look on her face the school staff was convinced she struggled because of a severe IQ problem. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Sarena came to the reading room at the start of third grade reading beginning second grade picture books.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>When staff members talked with her one-on-one, it seemed she understood little of what was going on around her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She was referred for special education testing because of the concerns about her low IQ.<br />
<br />
There was, however, one piece of the puzzle that didn’t fit.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Looking back on the records of her quiz scores, she had had an unusually high number of 100%’s early in the year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Even though she had accomplished very little during the year, failed several tests, and been unable to pass second and third grade chapter book assessments, there was something about the scores she had received on the picture books she read when she first came.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was unusual for early third graders with IQ problems to consistently score 100’s. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGU5ezeq07FywenQ5GKOu9duxc9hyphenhyphenGSlXGm-bQGQHVdq4GzXlvskxExnyC2vrcoZ2L-r6_2v5t4739sKZRHccvaV-KtpMKGAZdytDyB0k-V9lFLykyhtyJFXnOy3GqKhd8mIVo1bem02f/s1600/CLUE+LETTER+BLOCKS+PHOTO+original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGU5ezeq07FywenQ5GKOu9duxc9hyphenhyphenGSlXGm-bQGQHVdq4GzXlvskxExnyC2vrcoZ2L-r6_2v5t4739sKZRHccvaV-KtpMKGAZdytDyB0k-V9lFLykyhtyJFXnOy3GqKhd8mIVo1bem02f/s640/CLUE+LETTER+BLOCKS+PHOTO+original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It was a small clue.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There was no other evidence to support the theory. The other members of the Student Assist Team smiled indulgently and went ahead with their special education recommendation, convinced of Sarena’s low IQ. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
What would Trixie or Nancy have done?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Follow up on even the smallest of clues!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Nancy and Trixie lived on their intuition.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They built their careers and often saved their lives by believing in the tiniest trifle of a clue.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Despite the scoffing of those around them, they forged ahead, followed up on their suspicions, used their intuition and solved the case.<br />
<br />
In the Case of Sarena, the detective’s hunch suggested she was bright and needed attention and help for ADD-like symptoms. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
The clues added up.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her mother was in jail for drug use and had been for most of Sarena’s life.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There was no one at home to care for her.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In addition, she had been sexually molested several years previously.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her father insisted it was “just an incident” that was “behind her,” though she had not received counseling. The school nurse described seeing Sarena as a toddler wandering in the street unattended, wearing only her diaper. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
That picture haunted me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I couldn’t get out of my mind the image of a small toddler, wearing only a diaper, wandering in the street wondering where her caretakers were, wondering who would take care of her and why no one did, wondering what this world was about.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It seemed the blank look on Sarena’s face as she wandered around the reading room, disconnected and unable to function, was the same look a small toddler would wear if habitually abandoned in the street, unfed, unclothed, unprotected, uncared for. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
The detective’s hunch was that Sarena was bright, but unable to function due to loss, abandonment, and trauma.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Her inability to focus, attend, or even understand what was going on around her, particularly auditorily, seemed to be due, at least in part, to the intellectual and emotional confusion chronic abandonment had caused.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was as if Sarena was still wandering, looking desperately for someone to care for her personally, the way a mother cares for her toddler - one-on-one, in her lap, wrapped in her arms.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was as if she wandered the room looking for someone who would care for her the way a father cares for his child perched proudly on his shoulders, scooped up in his arms, bounced on his knee.<br />
<br />
It is as if this personal attention and protection is a necessary ingredient in each child’s journey to third grade.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Children sit protected in a lap, nestle in a warm embrace, then move on when the time comes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>By third grade, children can be given a direction and be expected to independently carry it out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Sarena was still waiting for the lap and the protective arms to appear.<br />
<br />
We plotted and prepared a solution.<br />
<br />
First, an extra half hour of one-on-two time with the reading room’s full-time Americorps assistant for support to catch up on her reading.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The Americorps reading assistant gave her stamps and stickers for reading, snuck her fishy crackers while she listened to her read, cared about what happened to her, paid attention to what page she was on and how many books she had read. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
In addition, we found her a supportive peer reading buddy she trusted - a fellow third grade student who had struggled with reading herself and was now very successful.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This student read with Sarena in class as well as getting together with her at home.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
The reading buddy’s mom volunteered to take Sarena under her wing after school, helping to ensure both girls had their homework done each afternoon, had healthy after-school snacks, play time, and time to enjoy reading.<br />
<br />
As a result of this three-part remedy, Sarena caught up completely - reading all thirty-five books she was behind, as well as keeping up with her ongoing reading goal of reading five new picture books a week.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Soon, she was reading third grade chapter books and passing them with flying colors.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was obvious she understood completely the grade-level stories she was reading.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was clear she did not have an intellectual impairment. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
In the reading room, filled with its eager, waiting students, there is a wealth of hidden secrets to unlock, tricky clues to decipher, and tremendously valuable treasures to uncover. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Just call me Girl Sleuth.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-4691863470431637172017-10-26T20:05:00.002-07:002021-07-24T10:13:34.879-07:00JOINING THE CLUB: THE POWER OF READING<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7t4SV222plFsWUch730g3_3D8Rv_7Dyy-hM5t4JSsGrmpAnJQK7ZhHi1uqEpGvOrID5LlAw5Cxg0bcaz-vWLUtCe3yeTesI6GfkUThtDdYKamC0E4ijm2HdK284Sc9EjTe2mqWZM-wr1P/s1600/ICE+CREAM+VANILLA+PHOTO_original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7t4SV222plFsWUch730g3_3D8Rv_7Dyy-hM5t4JSsGrmpAnJQK7ZhHi1uqEpGvOrID5LlAw5Cxg0bcaz-vWLUtCe3yeTesI6GfkUThtDdYKamC0E4ijm2HdK284Sc9EjTe2mqWZM-wr1P/s640/ICE+CREAM+VANILLA+PHOTO_original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
When I was a little girl, my parents and grandparents spelled things over our heads.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <span><a name='more'></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-converted-space"></span> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYzZZnD1BqRov7yIcWIMOOn-0jONNQdMtWwq2rHhJzi0yspU-gOh8aQSlbFRyytBkeCqv8ECwl7ZzgWHvE5Rn9L6qq-FxyA_GAT4CquEOhy5Od_gCFLxDOYLdw55kN9XYEhC5aUuF_KX3/s1600/LETTERS+WHITE+FLYING+JUMBLE_original+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYzZZnD1BqRov7yIcWIMOOn-0jONNQdMtWwq2rHhJzi0yspU-gOh8aQSlbFRyytBkeCqv8ECwl7ZzgWHvE5Rn9L6qq-FxyA_GAT4CquEOhy5Od_gCFLxDOYLdw55kN9XYEhC5aUuF_KX3/s640/LETTERS+WHITE+FLYING+JUMBLE_original+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-converted-space">For a long, frustrating time I wanted desperately to know what they were saying.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I knew they had a power to communicate that I didn’t have.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I also knew that they spelled when something was really important, when it was something on which they did not want our opinions.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Things like bedtime, dessert, a new toy.</span><br /><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
My grandfather’s family was from the Volga valley in Russia; he grew up speaking German and eating interesting things like sauerkraut and hard sausage.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was a ritual for him to prepare bleu cheese and brown bread and for me to be the only one who would eat it with him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9KUD_6IcKRv3YIqHLmGqZeEwXKKNrY2k7XdIhPkJCRfsZirJfN16p9-LFWwa057PMFyTTYcsL2Bk8E0aXG_FDzesyUUGapZpkRwKkVsevIe7pscryYaM_jU7yFBzNt3wzF_GHy6ozHzJ/s1600/SAUERKRAUT+PHOTO_original.jpg.crdownload.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9KUD_6IcKRv3YIqHLmGqZeEwXKKNrY2k7XdIhPkJCRfsZirJfN16p9-LFWwa057PMFyTTYcsL2Bk8E0aXG_FDzesyUUGapZpkRwKkVsevIe7pscryYaM_jU7yFBzNt3wzF_GHy6ozHzJ/s640/SAUERKRAUT+PHOTO_original.jpg.crdownload.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Another ritual my grandparents had was serving vanilla ice cream to my sisters and me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One night we had just finished dinner.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>My grandmother started to spell over our heads - as usual - to the other adults: “Should we have some I-C-E?”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I remember suddenly thinking “i… c… e….<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The e is silent; it makes the i say its name; c is ‘k’ or ‘s’.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That spells i-c-e.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s after dinner.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We often have ice cream after dinner.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If I-C-E spells ice and ice is short for...”</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
“ICE CREAM!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>ICE CREAM!” I shouted. “You’re talking about ice cream! I can read it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I know what you’re saying! Yes! Yes! We (I had to speak for the younger ones who couldn’t read or spell yet) want ice cream!”</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The adults grinned and clapped their hands.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“Oh my!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You figured it out!” There was hugging and laughing and congratulations.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Then they all pretended to be worried.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“Oh no!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What will we do now?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Now she’ll know everything we say!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She can read! ”</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Everyone knew that something very important had changed in that moment.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Things would never be exactly the same as they had been before.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I had joined a club.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All of a sudden I had a junior membership in the club of Grownups.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There was a power the grownups had: the power of reading.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Now that power was mine.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I was on my way to something big.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In my line of work I have the privilege of reliving that moment over and over again as I accompany readers on their journey across the threshold.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s a joy to be able to offer to the struggling readers I see the certainty that they, too, can join the club. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Comic Sans MS'}
span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Learning to read is an important event in the life of a child.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In my forty years teaching children to read - from kindergartners to high schoolers - I've never met anyone who didn’t desperately want the power being able to read brings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I've never met a single person who, given the right book - the book that matched the unique something of his soul to words, didn’t love to read.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-converted-space">I try to keep my eyes on this prize o</span>n the days I get bogged down with assessment and data collection and all the other minutiae that turning struggling readers into successful readers requires. I try to remember it's about the joy.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<center>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" /></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-68381053661314172172017-10-25T08:22:00.002-07:002021-07-24T10:14:03.597-07:00DOES EVERYONE NEED TO READ?<div class="p3">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY7xya97Np9IASb-eAruFSVNfEyLYzxtaSevqhddDpHGcD_AavOxWiQNmzgn9BHW7Z3-V3STQxzFSksIeqrXO4FHI7HFBoO7J4qIzmg8DkKadFvtNcLyY2Ylx9BTIXb78ZfjrAMiDWKsR/s1600/Everyone+Reads+Silhouette+.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY7xya97Np9IASb-eAruFSVNfEyLYzxtaSevqhddDpHGcD_AavOxWiQNmzgn9BHW7Z3-V3STQxzFSksIeqrXO4FHI7HFBoO7J4qIzmg8DkKadFvtNcLyY2Ylx9BTIXb78ZfjrAMiDWKsR/s640/Everyone+Reads+Silhouette+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
“…I believe that books can save lives.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s as simple as that.”</div>
</div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Michael Cart, “Books Make Life Easier”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="p5">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="p7">
A teacher friend once asked me if I believe everyone needs to read.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <span><a name='more'></a></span></span>He’d known people who didn’t or couldn’t read, yet had led extraordinary lives and contributed to the world. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
I understood his question, and I agree with him.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Reading is only one of many skills we want people to have.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Reading isn’t what makes a woman or man.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The question has stayed with me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span> If I agree with my colleague, why do I work so hard to entice all kids to learn to love to read?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What is it that I believe books can do for kids? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"></span> <br />
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<h2>
<!--more--></h2>
<h2>
WHAT BOOKS CAN DO</h2>
</div>
</div>
<div class="p8">
Winter break a few years ago my students challenged me to read a “point” for every “point” they read.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The point system we were using at the time measured the number of words and pages read.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One point was roughly equivalent to one hundred chapter book pages.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Since there were approximately sixty students and one of me, I had my work cut out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I started reading.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The good news is, over that break, I read one hundred points, with time left over to visit with family and friends, clean my house, and relax.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The sad news is, of course - I lost the challenge – one hundred "points" and all.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p8">
Did I say I read one hundred points? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p8">
I rode with young Maid Marion while she saved her father from the clutches of the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I shared her bravery and cleverness.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I gave up my life of modern convenience and stylish clothes in Baghdad and escaped over the mountains of Kurdistan wearing the colorful traditional clothes of my ancestral Kurdish village.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There, I lived in a refugee camp and learned to wear a burkah.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
In a boarding school in 1867 Michigan, I learned how to gather hazelnuts and prepare maple syrup.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I lived on the streets of London, survived by finding nails in the mud and selling them, and escaped from a workhouse ravaged by epidemic.<br />
<br />
I was saved from death in the Nazi concentration camps by a family who hid me under their sink.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I lived in a small village in Italy, and traveled to America in the smelly hold of a ship.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I rescued a dragon and fed it chocolate.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I taught my grandfather how to read. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
In just two weeks, I lived thirty other lives.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I touched down, if only briefly, in twenty other places and twenty other times. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
I think of the schema – layer upon layer of knowledge - laid down by reading “one hundred points.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Collected experiences piled one on the other in our brains - like so many coats at a party - form a multi-layered lens of knowledge through which we understand the world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Extensive reading makes the unknown familiar.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The knowledge, possibly even wisdom, gained through reading can be considerable.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
In addition to increased fluency and skill navigating complex sentences and varied text structures, the exquisite familiarity with words that comes with reading is invaluable.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Encountering n</span>ew words, brushed like watercolors onto a story, is so much more illustrative than a dictionary exercise.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
During my winter break I warmed my hands by “the meager fire,” watched a serpent open its “cavernous jaws,” and, as my own brother delivered me to the dungeon, I learned the meaning of the word, “perfidy.”<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
Does everyone need to read?<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
The question is still with me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Does everyone need to walk in other shoes?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Does everyone benefit from an intricately layered tapestry of schema – knowledge - about the world in which we live and the times and places that came before us?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Does knowledge of the world give readers an advantage? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p9">
I continue to ponder the question.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
Reading can bring us information, inspiration, inoculations.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It is where we learn, live and listen to ourselves.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Kylene Beers, in her foreword to Teri S. Lesesne’s <i>Making the Match</i>, 2004, eloquently describes the value of reading.<br />
<br />
“And each time, kids discover that reading, whether informational texts or novels, can act as a mirror to teach them more about themselves or as a window to show them more about the world.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They learn that a connection to literature … is about measuring themselves against a character to see where they differ, where they match.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They learn to sometimes resist the author and other times to applaud.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They have the opportunity to consider our greatest dilemmas – good and evil, courage and fear, love and betrayal, greed and generosity – within the safe setting of the pages of a book.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="p7">
<h2>
BOOKS CAN DO AMAZING THINGS</h2>
</div>
<div class="p7">
<br />
Books can do amazing things.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
Jennica dragged into the reading room one late November day, as usual.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Now in fifth grade, her reading progress seemed to be stalled at second-grade level chapter books.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She was reading <i>Junie B. Jones</i> books - still.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She almost never read at home.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She came to class every day still reading the same page she’d left off on the day before.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I’d tried everything - for three years - to motivate her.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p8">
She came to school in raggedy clothes and unkempt hair.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Family members were in jail.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She had only a few friends – other girls whose home lives were also abusive and neglectful.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She’d recently begun to wear her ragged, dirty and mismatched clothes pulled over her shoulder in a suggestive way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The staff was worried that she was a candidate for early pregnancy. Her test scores refused to budge. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p8">
I was discouraged.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Until the day Jennica sheepishly flashed her warm, eager smile as she gave up what she’d been hiding under her coat, under her battered <i>Junie B. Jones </i>book.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
“Ah, busted, might as well ‘fess up,” her grin suggested as she showed what she had hidden.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“I’ve been reading this at home - just because I wanted to,” she apologized, as she handed over the large, thick book she’d been clutching.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
“<i>Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You’ve been reading this at home?”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I queried. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
“Yes,” she answered.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But only because I wanted to,” she said, apologetically.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“I promise I won’t bring it again,” her tone suggested. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“Wow.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Cool.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Just because you wanted to?”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I answered with a smile. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
“Uh huh.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s really good.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have all three <i>Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul</i> books.”<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p8">
“All three, huh?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That’s cool.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That could keep you busy for a while.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I grinned.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p10">
She looked at me.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
“I think you should read this <i>Chicken Soup</i> book here, at home, and everywhere else.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That’s what reading’s for – because you want to, because you enjoy it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Because the book you’re reading speaks to you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I’m not going to worry if these books aren’t “at your reading level.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It doesn’t matter that they don’t have quizzes.”<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
During the next month, Jennica went home every night and read sixty or more pages because she “couldn’t help herself.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This student I hadn’t been able to convince to read sixty easy pages <i>in two weeks</i> was now devouring sixty difficult pages <i>each evening</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>She finished all three <i>Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul </i>books in a very short time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I looked for more.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
Nine <i>Chicken Soup </i>books and a month later she’d completed the year’s reading goal - only halfway through the year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>We went to the principal’s office to celebrate.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“I’ve been reading <i>Chicken Soup for the Soul</i> books,” she told him as we stood in his office. “I’ve read nine already.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They’re really good.”<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p11">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>“What do you like about these books?” he asked.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p11">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>“I learn stuff,” she replied.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p11">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>“Like what? What stuff have you learned?” he probed. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p11">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>She answered clearly and simply and without hesitation. Her answer took my breath away.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p11">
<span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span>“I learned there’s a reason to live.”</div>
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
<div class="p8">
I can’t think of a single more important thing to learn – anywhere, at any time, for any person.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
I want Jennica to be able to correctly distinguish her b’s from d’s.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I want her to learn to read <i>for </i>and <i>from</i> and <i>of </i>correctly. I continue to work diligently to help her master these skills.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But more than anything else I want this vibrant, battered, soulful young girl to know there’s a reason to live. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p10">
That’s what reading can do for kids. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="p7">
Does everyone need to read?</div>
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
<div class="p7">
Yes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>My answer is still yes.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s200/PostSignature-1a.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxParhSJbb3OrWmtELHnlyUcNWroEFTeUwlGaP-mJX2n9PkuK9OHkweuJJaVbxU7a_CN2Xrn2gcyGOAtd5eEnSDbfav7DRAZMqjyb2tnMsqDT95kqRVsagg4xZFAiW8HXckJTCAjvio90/s1600/THUMBS+UP+BOOKSHELF+PHOTO_original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxParhSJbb3OrWmtELHnlyUcNWroEFTeUwlGaP-mJX2n9PkuK9OHkweuJJaVbxU7a_CN2Xrn2gcyGOAtd5eEnSDbfav7DRAZMqjyb2tnMsqDT95kqRVsagg4xZFAiW8HXckJTCAjvio90/s640/THUMBS+UP+BOOKSHELF+PHOTO_original.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-48881334243375071982017-10-19T12:59:00.007-07:002021-07-26T12:57:58.951-07:00READING STRATEGY - DECODING MULTISYLLABIC WORDS <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iBPbm2pmUaYrSQg5-CLJnIADqa1T-feqc6q6wKXYcDCB-pE17l8U4tJ_GcgtdJXZW5c0PqLob11cnA9Yx69QARsp98CJ1rfaeiUvZtnsRjnCpjXoxFqWy58ko-bk0mH6kNxhXaXGavbc/s1000/decoding-multisyllabic-words-strategy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iBPbm2pmUaYrSQg5-CLJnIADqa1T-feqc6q6wKXYcDCB-pE17l8U4tJ_GcgtdJXZW5c0PqLob11cnA9Yx69QARsp98CJ1rfaeiUvZtnsRjnCpjXoxFqWy58ko-bk0mH6kNxhXaXGavbc/s16000/decoding-multisyllabic-words-strategy.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">I want to introduce you to <i>I Can Read Gigantic Words! - </i>an advanced decoding strategy that
really works!<span><a name='more'></a></span></span><br />
<center style="text-align: left;">
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This method for decoding multisyllabic words </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">is especially useful for
older readers who are progressing in their reading development. They're encountering </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">longer,
more complex reading passages</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and, let’s face it - GIGANTIC words! </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
The basic concept is simple. Readers learn to </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">recognize</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and know </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">how
to pronounce</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">the recurring word parts that make
up multisyllabic words in the English language. </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--more--><br /></span></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxt9BJmRxdVzqTaHdkxDSdgbnMp1m4fPeV1dTiXOK3aGeSYcH2xC1eXKXiUHJh0XRToZVrevupo5YlNnFYPKwXdhwcJTHL7TzWFQ9VOF2gR9rAbEPn6DQ_TCQupHyE7uRkGL2fjlEi3Ip/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+MULTISYLLABIC+WORD.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxt9BJmRxdVzqTaHdkxDSdgbnMp1m4fPeV1dTiXOK3aGeSYcH2xC1eXKXiUHJh0XRToZVrevupo5YlNnFYPKwXdhwcJTHL7TzWFQ9VOF2gR9rAbEPn6DQ_TCQupHyE7uRkGL2fjlEi3Ip/s640/WHITE+BOARD+MULTISYLLABIC+WORD.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Then, they are trained to spot the parts inside gigantic words, thus </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">reducing
the number</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> of
parts, or chunks, they need to identify, pronounce and
sequence. </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
This is </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">especially helpful for dyslexic readers</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">, who often have difficulty
successfully sequencing multiple parts inside words. </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's look at the word, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">diminished</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead of needing to identify and
pronounce 10 individual letters, readers need only identify and
sequence 4 small words or word parts : </span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<h4>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">dim </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">in</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">ish</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">ed</span></li>
</ul>
</h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> If a reader already knows
how to pronounce and easily recognizes these word parts, her work is instantly <b>diminished!</b></span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 18pt;"><br /></span></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_1bACYHb0S5U77sh89ck6_1gh0PvXsHBLBruJ_Bm7ODoEp65p7ZxqSYWzG7PDLsyWvn3xdV9YduUVhPUHPEpoSYnx8fBiHElH5WZ-ZiJig9zZIa7AAwZ1xhQgIyyDddMbEjrwDA3y1Vd/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+SCRAMBLED+LETTERS.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvk64Q4UNgU8E5apXiGEQ4WKhrrsaRywHwDz7H9sfahbmYjcg4ZYutNDKcVMNQCFO9Ivi5jBbn6gnUFEJVrsN-lDaRsaQGIO4p3JcglZrG4oG11HTnzcFaxnAcxl2_bHT6HrGQDwV-Im9/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+MULTISYLLABIC+WORD+LETTER+BY+LETTER.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvk64Q4UNgU8E5apXiGEQ4WKhrrsaRywHwDz7H9sfahbmYjcg4ZYutNDKcVMNQCFO9Ivi5jBbn6gnUFEJVrsN-lDaRsaQGIO4p3JcglZrG4oG11HTnzcFaxnAcxl2_bHT6HrGQDwV-Im9/s640/WHITE+BOARD+MULTISYLLABIC+WORD+LETTER+BY+LETTER.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_1bACYHb0S5U77sh89ck6_1gh0PvXsHBLBruJ_Bm7ODoEp65p7ZxqSYWzG7PDLsyWvn3xdV9YduUVhPUHPEpoSYnx8fBiHElH5WZ-ZiJig9zZIa7AAwZ1xhQgIyyDddMbEjrwDA3y1Vd/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+SCRAMBLED+LETTERS.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_1bACYHb0S5U77sh89ck6_1gh0PvXsHBLBruJ_Bm7ODoEp65p7ZxqSYWzG7PDLsyWvn3xdV9YduUVhPUHPEpoSYnx8fBiHElH5WZ-ZiJig9zZIa7AAwZ1xhQgIyyDddMbEjrwDA3y1Vd/s640/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+SCRAMBLED+LETTERS.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BUT there's good news! When readers look for small words and word parts they already know, the opportunity for failure is dramatically reduced!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPSteR4JUKu696DTOnsImC6hN56FcUSrpEj6SGpfPmXRjeV3XO11Vs4i-NLgtU5o_Wqfn_figLl437gbTK7ABVatI_no4bb9UvIPDUHYBmCsDD-biqqQXEVAsSSH_Fz6eHhDjwrfllcQD/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+FIRST+STEP.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPSteR4JUKu696DTOnsImC6hN56FcUSrpEj6SGpfPmXRjeV3XO11Vs4i-NLgtU5o_Wqfn_figLl437gbTK7ABVatI_no4bb9UvIPDUHYBmCsDD-biqqQXEVAsSSH_Fz6eHhDjwrfllcQD/s640/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+FIRST+STEP.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">And the possibility of succeess becomes very real!</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdHVV5Pd8djpNzCMw22np8qyxDXWc0U3yleaoLt1lftpbhyphenhyphenMcM_7q65gDhjVMp4wunPbObsxDFYGR8rUnm3FkBpwJW-akj8aGMURjFVdJHopZ0K1En8hftk3w5ZE1cUYEIn9r3qeNgz2X/s1600/WHITEBOARD+WORD+PARTS+CIRCLED+STEP+1.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdHVV5Pd8djpNzCMw22np8qyxDXWc0U3yleaoLt1lftpbhyphenhyphenMcM_7q65gDhjVMp4wunPbObsxDFYGR8rUnm3FkBpwJW-akj8aGMURjFVdJHopZ0K1En8hftk3w5ZE1cUYEIn9r3qeNgz2X/s640/WHITEBOARD+WORD+PARTS+CIRCLED+STEP+1.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-fDxdxNgbjeuBGrSKDAC_eU-NKL1RnhoLcJHzcsFoYmkpHjYBT15Q6jJASiSpZJuQkcjV3b0BEal3hBE_SgqaDHaJrvKNLRuC8K-lNI9ww6JjtTPEzAFEbcg8OJVQq6URFckAYilBhPH/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+WORD+FIRST+STEP.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYTEtEH_xoEOwt6inyx8p7Av3MUK2XqgpzSAoHQCegwL73jDcw5U7KWeArRbDH1qQurQ3xWMbG5qDb5Ca8Foak98FND5NQVPhXhUC6ZXR9KOzTTAiBrUivytkKf6VOl3J-s_8qhAQRig2/s1600/WHITE+BOARD+HOPE.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYTEtEH_xoEOwt6inyx8p7Av3MUK2XqgpzSAoHQCegwL73jDcw5U7KWeArRbDH1qQurQ3xWMbG5qDb5Ca8Foak98FND5NQVPhXhUC6ZXR9KOzTTAiBrUivytkKf6VOl3J-s_8qhAQRig2/s640/WHITE+BOARD+HOPE.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<center style="text-align: left;">
</center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 18pt;"><br /></span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Join us as we explore this method for decoding GIGANTIC WORDS!</span></center>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></center>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.readingbyheart.com/p/how-to-read-multisyllabic-words.html">HOW TO READ GIGANTIC WORDS COMPLETE PROGRAM</a></span></center>
</h3>
<h4>
</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGNzk9VOji_PQGEdUbVDYL8obVgWnT21-thqUVxxeFfywxLaSIXbC8Qurp5PTs1W8UZsoXqDhGebkaF4TP2KhFd0zbmaQRh6XVXOi_ZdQC8XVcbCn01qJpkClew5XzrmR6cJeFM5VCSI/s200/PostSignature-1a.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<center style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 18pt;"><br /></span></center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470132318870622203.post-60939786515499156242017-10-19T11:32:00.001-07:002021-07-23T23:36:02.510-07:00HELP FOR STRUGGLING READERS<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjm-W_F2vWAnm7rczNC2VlUDFS5dRTwWOKoZbXahI5Ik1-q7XyVuOj1POxYCYrvmIIQfm7UII5Lw3xg8eSANnPloL7HfFgDXzZFiNilhM-_n6tqKb9kbV9dZ1dzG5nCe0hsEQqDONj_Kh_/s1600/PIC+SLIDER+GLASSES%252C+NOTEBOOK+AND+MUG+TAUPES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1100" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjm-W_F2vWAnm7rczNC2VlUDFS5dRTwWOKoZbXahI5Ik1-q7XyVuOj1POxYCYrvmIIQfm7UII5Lw3xg8eSANnPloL7HfFgDXzZFiNilhM-_n6tqKb9kbV9dZ1dzG5nCe0hsEQqDONj_Kh_/s640/PIC+SLIDER+GLASSES%252C+NOTEBOOK+AND+MUG+TAUPES.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Welcome to Reading by Heart!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
Together, we'll explore how to teach your struggling readers to decode gigantic words, locate evidence in nonfiction, strengthen their reading stamina, and love reading! </div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
I’m Laura Hurley, a reading specialist with decades of experience helping older readers from second graders to adult learners.</div>
<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
There is good news. We can turn struggling readers into successful readers!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<center>
</center>
Laura Hurleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14703642669827202985noreply@blogger.com