Jay, high school sophomore
Wow! What a connection I have with this student! I did the same thing as Jay did, which is if i couldn't understand the text I did turn to the cliff notes and then the class. The one important thing about group discussions in class is other view points are brought up which can help others gain a better understanding of the text. It seems that certain textbooks that are put into the school system are, honestly, useless. Because some textbooks have too much information and could be too advanced for most of the students.
How can we as teachers avoid the textbook problem?
- Create multiple sources of texts at various reading levels
- Provide "managed choices" which means choosing text that is interesting
- Individualize Instruction! Small group work and less whole class lecture
Poems, Short nonfiction selections, fiction, picture books, newspaper articles, short stories, internet pieces, lists, mathematical writing, postcards, photos, stamps, recipes, catalogs, calendars, pictures of artwork, letters and journals, historical recounts, song lyrics, brochures, and quotes!
Who knew that there was so many different types of accessible texts?! So, teachers not only have to use a textbook in the classroom but they can bring other items to the classroom. A variety is important in a classroom, so students don't get bored with the content and get more information from other items rather than a textbook.
How can teachers evaluate text sets?
- Writing letters to future users of the the sets
- Observing tudents as they use the sets
- Asking students to compare and contratst pieces in the text
- Recording questions and research those questions
- Making interesting and important places in the text with sticky notes that describe connections made by the reader
I do the same thing because the text is difficult. Finding and using different text is a great idea. At times the students will give suggestions too. I like your list of accessible text - I will use them this year with my little ones.
ReplyDeleteI'm not going to lie, I am guilty of this to. I also find that I do this when my course load is over baring and finding time to read can be difficult. Even though it doesn't involve reading, I think another way to keep students engaged in discussions is to have them watch a video and take notes at home and bring them to class to discuss it.
ReplyDeleteOne way to boost nonfiction literacy reading in the classroom is to create displays, hold book talks to stimulate interest in certain subjects, set aside classroom mini libraries, and make students aware of literacy nonfiction that build background knowledge in you subject area.
ReplyDeleteOne way to boost nonfiction literacy reading in the classroom is to create displays, hold book talks to stimulate interest in certain subjects, set aside classroom mini libraries, and make students aware of literacy nonfiction that build background knowledge in you subject area.
ReplyDelete