In our book talks so far, we've discussed a number of strategies to improve literacy in each of our content areas. Some of us are already using or have tried a few strategies. Before our next session with Bruce (Feb. 10), you should try at least one of the teaching strategies described in our reading. In a blog entry, tell which strategy you chose, how you felt it worked, the positives/negatives of that strategy for your particular class, the impact on student learning, etc. Read other blog entries to see what others are doing!
The questions the group came up with for Chapters 4 and 5:
Vocabulary:
*How do we maintain kids' curiosity and motivation to want learn new words?
*When a student is substantially behind in his/her vocabulary, how or where do you start and how do we develop a differentiated vocabulary curriculum?
*How do we get students not to define a word by using the word (i.e. corresponding angles correspond with other angles)?
*How do we hone vocabulary to essentials? There are so many words that are so important in each content area.
Read Alouds and Shared Reading:
*Who has had success? Why was it successful?
*How much is too much?
*Is it beneficial to read aloud to kids in their teen years, or should they be reading all on their own? We read a lot to elementary students, both fiction and non-fiction. Should we be doing more of that in junior and senior high school?
*How do we make sure that students learn to communicate face-to-face when so many are often texting or facing a computer screen?
Feel free to blog about these questions, too, and any other ideas that sparked your interest.
