Chapter 12,13 "When Kids Can't Read"

Research shows us that spelling is a developmental process. Children advance through stages as their understanding of letter-sound relationships broadens."

I found this quote to be very interesting but so true! While working with Sarah, and the other children in her classroom, I am able to see a huge diversity in the different levels all the 1st graders were at with their reading! I would work with one child who had excellent fluency and voice when she read her basal reading, while another student wouldn't even be familiar with their sight words. It is quite a challenge to change your different styles of teaching mode when you are working with such a diverse group. I believe it is crucial to encourage students who are excelling at a faster rate to KEEP excelling! Do not hold them back so the rest of the group can catch up. And than on the other hand, keep group readings at a level where everyone can show their progression and strengths in reading. Spelling, reading and writing, I think, go hand-in-hand and if you have a student that is excelling in reading, challenge their spelling as well.



"Helping students develop social and emotional confidence require patience on our part"

If you are an engaged, aware teacher, you will know the students in the class who are comfortable with others, students who aren't and students that may be TOO comfortable. I think boosting self image and esteem is vital especially for a preteen group. I struggled with self-confidence and I do not blame it on my teachers or school, but it definately would have made a difference with a little more encouragement on their part. Reading in front of the class is either an enjoyable task for teens or its their worst nightmare! Being aware of whose comfortable and who is not is important so that you do not place someone on the spot to possibly ruin their day or feelings toward reading, but than not to give someone too much spotlight than they already deserve. Reading needs to be a fun, creative activity that doesn't just involve sitting at a desk taking turns reading. Creating the book into a script or play can be a great way for students to engage with one another and show a different light than just being contained to desk.