I like for students to respond to some of what they read in journals. They can ask questions, make connections, make predictions, etc. My mentor teacher used reading response journals with her second grade class. After writing, the whole class stood up and made a train around the room following the teacher as she read from each of the journals and commented on ideas. This motivated the students to do their best writing because the other students would get to hear from their journals and view their corresponding pictures. The teacher made a positive comment about what each student wrote and could clarify or ask a question with the student present. Routman suggests that we write more book reviews. Book reviews allow the student to summarize and respond to the book. Students typically enjoy sharing about a good book. The power of teacher or student recommendation of a book is huge in motivating others to read. I know it was always a big deal to get to be the first to read the book the teacher recommended. :)
I also have my students respond to their independent reading through a DEAR journal. Like you mentioned, the key to success with the journaling method is allowing the kids to share their journals aloud! With all of the time constraints we face throughout the day, this can be a challenge. I love the train idea. I usually give the students a few minutes before we begin math to "walk and talk" with a song partner. Each person is alloted a certain amount of time to talk and then they swap roles. It is amazing to see the power of discussion over what we read. It's such a great way to get kids excited about literature and all it has to offer!
ReplyDeleteI like that idea you suggested. Thank you! :)
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