A short time ago
in a room in my house...
Today I started my journey in the Reading Practice Intensive Program (RPI). Though confident in my delivery of reading to the students in my charge the ideas and advice shared today shows many places I can improve. This illustrates the benefit of PD and growth as we continue to learn more and become experts in education.
Initial activities involved reflection and consideration of the reading for enjoyment. This simple (not so simple) element will boost reading among the students as they grow and recognise themselves as readers. The survey indicated many tools we can use for reading and would be an eye opener for students who may think reading is a book full stop. The survey is certainly where I will be starting with the Tamariki upstairs at NBC.
This lead to discussion, discussion discussion and a bit more discussion. I repeat because it is amazing the growth illustrated from this one tool. Examples from teachers who have been using conversation showed it working with students growing their understanding of text. We may use our survey results to dive into discussion and we will definitely try the Toss 'n Talk activity to guide the creation of a rubric or guide for steps.
One thing that came up repeatedly was how we are giving our students choice and ownership. In the reading of Reading Motivation: What the Research Says, they stated that "Student motivation is a key factor in successful reading." The motivation of students is influenced by their teachers, their peers and themselves. How we teach them can influence this. This made me think about I interact with my students and the disposition I display towards reading.
So, much to take a away, nary an idea was wasted!
HI Nick, thanks for your reflection on Day 1 of the RPI. I'm glad you found it informative and had lots of takeaways. I think the survey results will make an excellent discussion with your learners. I love that we get to involve them in curriculum design in this way. They then are invested and motivated to do the mahi they identify. The way we do extended discussion is quite laid out in the ground rules for talk, do you think this is something your students will access quite easily? I also like the video of Rob exploring this with his students. One of the results from our observations last year was the limited choice available to our students. This is part of what we have built into the task boards we provide. I too think this goes hand in hand with the motivation piece that is so needed to keep our students engaged in their learning. Looking forward to catching up in a few weeks.
ReplyDeleteFantastic to see you back in one of the PLD programmes Nick. I look forward to catching up here and seeing what you have been implementing in your classroom.
ReplyDeleteKia ora Nick,
ReplyDeleteIt is great to read your reflection from Day 1 of the RPI. I know you are a confident teacher of reading but it is also great to read that you are wanting and willing to learn and be reminded of new things.
I am looking forward to observing your students putting the ground rules for talk into action. I am sure that they will respond well to the space to talk deliberately about the text. How good to hear that it is already working well in small groups.
:) Sharon - your friendly mentor