Overall, we really enjoyed this book! It is easy to read and offers a lot of practical advice for teaching comprehension in the primary grades. At times, we questioned if all of Miller's ideas could actually be implemented in a real classroom...but we have walked away with a better understanding of how reader's workshop operates.
We were disappointed that we didn't start this in September. Miller's beginning chapters offer many different ways to create an atmosphere where reading is valued. The routines of teaching reading provide opportunities for quality comprehension instruction to take place. We are looking forward to implementing some of these ideas from the start next year!
We really enjoyed using some of the lessons in our classrooms. We found ourselves making an effort to teach differently and introduce new concepts. (Our kids know about schema!) The literature suggestions for teaching the different strategies are extremely helpful. It is convenient and reassuring to know that the books have been used (successfully) when teaching a specific strategy.
After reading this book, we have improved our comprehension instruction in our classrooms. We have anchor lessons to use as a starting point for teaching our students to comprehend. It is a good resource that we will refer to in the future.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I am SO interested in hearing about some of the ideas to foster an environment where reading is valued!! Great post!
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way as you do about giving this all another shot in September. That's not to say that it's too late to start some new strategies, but I feel like starting a new year armed with the knowledge I have picked up from these books will start the year off in a great way. The best part about teaching is that we get to start over, and it sounds like many of us will be starting with a new, fresh outlook on reading!!!
ReplyDeleteOur monthly character ed theme is "optimism." Can you tell??
Great summary Jenna! I enjoyed this book although at times it was a little unrealistic. As long as we looked past that, we did find some awesome ideas to use in our own classes. Yay!
ReplyDeleteSome of her ideas are practical..but I keep wondering how I am going to fit everything in?!!? Do I "have" to use the things that have been bought for us as much as I have been?! Can I incorporate Reader's Workshop into my classroom?! I can't wait for September to come! I already started somethings, but this way, my students will have some knowledge (because I am looping)!
ReplyDelete