Reading Workshop in a Nutshell

You might just have yourself a top-notch reading workshop in your classroom if...

You have a quick mini-lesson that makes a strong teaching point in 15 minutes or less.

Your students have 40 minutes to quietly read books on their level.

You take time to confer with some students one-on-one each day.

You meet with 1 to 2 reading groups per day offering a strong guided reading opportunity.

You frequently gather for a teacher or student share time at the end of the workshop.

You read-aloud to your students in and out of the workshop daily!

Show Students Your Love of Reading!

Do you LOVE to read?  Share your love with your students. As your students are reading quietly during class,  do you ever take a moment to join them?  Let your excitement about your latest book show. Demonstrate the joy that's possible by getting truly LOST in a book.  It's contagious!  Like
a good yawn...Now stop yawning and go grade another paper.  Better yet...Plan a great lesson!

A Fresh New Year

Most of us enjoy a fresh start!  Isn't this what appeals to us about a NEW YEAR?

As a teacher and office supply nut, I enjoy a fresh, untouched piece of paper.  And who can resist a sharp new pencil?  Put the two together and the possibilities are endless!

What's your preference? Opening a new book?  First to dig into the peanut butter?  Or perhaps a walk on untouched snow?

Even though you've had your students (most likely) for a few months already, you are still entitled to a fresh start in the classroom!  In fact you know a little about what you are dealing with and can set more specific goals for yourself.  If you are so inclined.  Just saying.  We have been "handed" a fresh new year!  What will you do with it?

May your 2011 be FULL of opportunity and growth!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!