I'm taking a few minutes to observe literacy studio in action. Students are relaxed and sitting around the room engaged in a number of literacy-related activities. Most are listening and/or reading books of choice. A few have chosen non-literacy activities which in some cases are okay, and in other cases signals an issue that I need to remedy.
Most of my students like to read, but a few still haven't developed the stamina and interest to sustain a lengthy period of independent reading. Most also read with fluency, but still a few need to develop that skill. As far as comprehension goes, there's still a range--a range I want to lift and address through book groups and interactive read aloud.
As I observe today, I am thinking about how I will grow literacy studio for the final leg of the year.
First, I'll start with a class meeting. I'll list the goals of literacy studio which are to develop interest, fluency and understanding when it comes to reading. Then I'll ask students for suggestions about how we can improve literacy studio so that we reach those goals. I'll specifically ask about their feelings with regard book groups, partner reading, use of iPods and book selection.
Next, I'll take a close look at reading data and listen carefully to our upcoming progress monitoring PLC. I want to develop literacy studio so that all children have the chance to develop their literacy skills in advantageous ways.
Finally, after vacation, I'll introduce the new routine and explain that I've lifted the expectations and length of time to help students get ready for the fifth grade literacy expectations. The classroom is filled with wonderful books and we're also right next door to the library. We have RTI during a couple of literacy times during the week so there's some good support.
It's essential to stop now and then in the classroom to observe, think and make plans for change and improvement.
