Cheryl - Assuming that most of you have already started school or are getting ready to. Thought we would start with any questions or comments about getting the model started. (And yes I was formerly with SDE.)
Cheryl - Are most of you jumping right in with all 4 blocks or getting started one at a time?
Patti - Wow.. getting started.. I just jumped right in today.. using the Making Words Book and the warm-up lessons..
Jean Ann/IN - I would say just get started and fix as you go along. Go to any training that you can find...and talk to others that are doing Four Blocks
Cheryl - Patti, how did it go?
Patti - I have first grade and I did everything but the self selected..
Cheryl - Jean Ann, you're right about networking with others. It helps!
Lynn/SC/3 - This is my fourth year with it, so I am doing all of them, but my kids aren't used to being pushed, so it is slow going..
Frances - I'm new to a chat also and new to 4blocks. Teach 2/3 class
Patti - Wonderful!! The children felt like they were big first graders.. and lots of smiles..
Linda/CA - We already had guided reading, writers workshop, and SSR, so just needed to add Word Wall and Making Words--big hit with the kids.
toni - I'm 2nd - no formal training in 4 blocks but did lots of reading this summer and was on 4 blocks mailring - learned a lot. We've been in school a week and I've discovered I have four below first grade readers who are also behavior problems. I'm extremely worried about the guided reading. Can you give me any suggestions?
Patti - Its hard to do self selected at first as they want to jump from book to book and their attention span is not long at first.
Cheryl - When we first started years ago, we thought we had to do Making Words every day. Don't make that mistake as it will wear out the kids!
Cece/GA/1 - The name activities are so great! I finish up with my last student tomorrow. They really have enjoyed it.
Lynn/SC/3 - Cheryl, I want to do a John's inventory on all my kids.... any suggestions on fitting it in this early in the year with all the modeling needed to keep things going?
Linda/CA - How often do you do the Making Words?
Cheryl - Toni, start small---shared reading with easy, patterned material, teaching the basic concepts.
Patti - Well can't you do making words but just let them use manipulatives on the days you do not do the actual lessons?
Cheryl - Lynn, I think the John's IRI is valuable. You might take a little time from SSR and at other times during the day. Can anyone help you administer it?
Patti - And any ideas anyone has to make self selected time run smoothly in the beginning I am taking notes!
Ike - I just jumped right in at 2nd this year
Cheryl - Marti, we're glad you're here with us. This rolls right along. We all have to be patient!
Lynn/SC/3 - cheryl, I did that last year, had it given by practicum students, but felt I didn't get a true picture since I didn't give it...
Lisa/CA/? - start SSR in slow increments -- build up, but be firm with them about not talking!
Cheryl - Patti, there are too many fun activities to get stuck on just one--Making Words. Your kids will grow tired of the same activity. Find variety.
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl I am going to implement all 4 blocks right away The kids come on the 7th
Kathy - Patti - try using a timer for self selected and not letting them get up until the bell rings. First practice how to really pick a book.
Cece/GA/1 - In my first grade I am reading aloud for the first part of SSR and then meeting with a small group after lunch. They read something to me that they've been practicing while the others read from the book baskets.
Cheryl - Lynn, I agree that it's best for the teacher to give it so that you get to know your students.
Linda/CA - Make sure you have books for all levels of reading.
Lynn/SC/3 - Patti, I am third, but I just love Words They Know... it is my favorite... fast paced, and easy to see results...
Cheryl - With SSR, be sure to model the 3 ways they can read---2 of those ways are ways they can read without knowing how to read any real words.
Lynn/SC/3 - would you explain the three ways, cheryl?
Frances - I have an assistant full time in my class. Any ideas how I can use her best?
Ike - When the children box in the words where do you start, and do you go over the top of dots on "i" and "j"?
Cece/GA/1 - I have a question about writing. Sometimes I like to have them write a variation of what we're reading or something tied to our guided reading selection. Is this ok to do in the writing block?
Kathy - Cheryl, at what point would you expect second graders to leave the picture reading behind?
Cheryl - One is a picture walk---the second is "reading" something they're familiar with (folk tales, fairy tales or something you've already read) and the third is reading the real words. Model the first two early on a number of times.
toni - Cheryl, do you recommend that I don't use "3 ring circus" right away in Guided Reading? - I think I read that in one of Cunningham's Books.
Kerry - Today was my 4th day of SSR with my 2/3 class. No one wandered today! :-)
Lisa/CA/? - Ike -- usually you start tracing under the word -- also you should go over the dots
Cheryl - CeCe, just be careful that you don't get them in the habit of having to be given a topic. It's really best just to tell them to "tell" you something in writing. Don't call it a story or anything that formal.
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl I am going to do story bits and the 1st book I will is the Crayon Box talked. The bit will be a crayon. I got a gift bag for each kid to take home with their name on it and they can keep the bits in there. Also i made a little form using so that the parents could respond to what their child has told them.. If any one is interested I will share what I made up
Kathy - My kids, who were the class from h--- last year, loved SSR. They begged for the peace and quiet.
Cheryl - Toni, no I wouldn't use 3-ring right away. Practice the different formats and let kids get used to them before getting that brave!
Ike - Lisa, where under the word do you start?
Lynn/SC/3 - In addition to my book baskets, I have a table with bookends, the metal ones, about 2 dozen of them, and I stand my read-alouds on them and let the kids choose them, too... I noticed that after having them full this morning, (hurricane made us collect things on Friday) there was only one on the bookends.... the rest were lonely, can't read aloud enough to keep them full...
Cheryl - Marti, what a wonderful idea! Thanks for sharing it!
Lisa/CA/? - I usually started under the first letter, traced under the word and the went over the word, remembering to go over the dots -- that's how I did it
Cheryl - Lynn, Linda Gambrell calls our read-alouds, Blessing the Books! Isn't that exactly what we do? The kids love them once we've read them!
Cece/GA/1 - What I mean is if we read Brown Bear, we might make our own story called "1st grade, 1st grade" Like a class book.
Matt/NY/5th - Hey room, first year teacher year. I know this is a pretty general question, but does anyone have any advice for my first year, namely the first few days.
Cheryl - CeCe, I call that "book innovations" and it's great way to make use of the patterned language books!
Laurie/AR - Today was my first day to try the 4 blocks. It helped to keep me focused but I am still having questions about the guided reading block.
Marti/CA/ - Cherly and all my favorite activity during the word block is reading and writing rhymes the kids loved it also
Cece/GA/1 - So, using the writing block one or two days for that would be ok?
Cheryl - I hope no one feels that the 4-Blocks will look in the beginning like they should look in a month or two. Don't put pressure on yourselves!
Lynn/SC/3 - They are always the first to go, cheryl.... I am reading about 3 a day, and still need to up it to get more out there....
Laurie/AR - Also I have a student from Indonesia who does not speak English. Any suggestions?
Cheryl - Marti, good variety! The kids love reading and writing rhymes.
Kathy - Laurie - I thing Guided Reading is the hardest to get going because it really is hard not to try to cram everything into it. Think about the comprehension strategies you want to teach, and let that guide you. do you have a basal?
Janie1sch - We are working to implement after just completing our training in August.
Cheryl - Kathy, that's good advice. Isn't it wonderful to know that there are 3 other blocks that will share the load. You're right---just concentrate on comprehension!
Laurie/AR - Yes. We use the HBJ basal. It has wonderful stories. My problem is I have about 6 students who are very low readers. In partner reading today, their partners read everything for them. What do you recommend for very low readers. The basal is too hard.
Cheryl - Janie, do you have a plan for getting started?
Tina3FL - Cheryl, This is Tina from FL. 4blocks is catching on at our school like wildfire! My principal is very supportive. The training was perfect for her to attend.
Cece/GA/1 - Another question I have is about my "struggling readers". Give me some ideas for things to look for to demonstrate their progress.
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl- iam pretty comfortable with blocks but I struggle most with the guided reading
Cheryl - Tina, so glad to hear that! I love seeing administrators come to training. We need them!
Cheryl - Laurie, maybe it's too early for partner reading in your class. Try something with more support.
Lynn/SC/3 - Our district, Berkeley Co, has mandated 4Blocks as the ONLY delivery system for elementary language arts... we have more support than we know what to do with... it is wonderful!
Tina3FL - Marti, what is helping me in GR is keeping in mind to focus on comprehension skills
Laurie/AR - Our district is pushing grouping the students. After observing these few, its the only way.
Kathy - Cece - You will see progress in self selected. You will notice that they are more comfortable with books, and choosing books that are more challenging AND they will talk about the books and recommend them to friends. Then things really take off.
Laurie/AR - What do you recommend, Cheryl?
Patti - We were lucky in our county they sent the administrators, counselors and anyone who wanted to attend.. this year they are even sending our student teachers. This has been very helpful..
Cheryl - A guided reading format with more support up front would be shared reading or some of the whole group formats like choral or echo reading.
Tina3FL - All of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th have word walls and month by month phonics
Lisa/CA/? - That must be nice Lynn to have an entire district behind your efforts! I do 4Blocks solo in my entire district! That is why I LOVE the mailring!
Cheryl - Are most of you meeting with grade levels or as a faculty to discuss your implementation?
Laurie/AR - I think tomorrow I will let some reread the story to look for story elements. I am going to pull the lower ones in a small group and read with them. I do have some high students also.
Cheryl - Poor, Lisa! I wish you had others collaborating with you!
jamie/mi - Lisa- how do I get into the mailring?
Patti - This year for the writing block we gave each child their own dictionary (we handmade) for them to keep . They will add their new words and use as a guide..
Marti/CA/ - Tina yes I understand that but I still want to put other things in but I am trying Actuall for awhile i thought I might try to follw the teachers guide for comprehensio stragegies until I reallyget the hang of it. The other thing that i am doing is looking at the teachers guide and deciding which activities go with our state standards and then deciding which block to teach them in What do you think?
Linda/CA - To be honest, I never heard of 4 blocks before joining the mail rings. Then I found out that I was already doing 3 of the 4--it was easy to add the 4th block
Kathy - We have a few teachers in our district in various schools doing 4 blocks this year. We plan to meet as a support group. Any suggestions for how to run this?
Cheryl - Laurie, just be careful not to return to ability groups, especially early on. Let other kids offer support. It can be so effective.
Lisa/CA/? - I do Cheryl! You and Dottie and Marcia and Linda and Katharine are there to support me, as well as everyone else on the ring!
Patti - We met faculty and then everyone who would participate.. we are moving up grade by grade..
Cheryl - Lisa, thanks! It's a great group on the mailring. I've learned so much from all of you, too!
Tina3FL - We are planning to get together across the grade levels and talk about how 4blocks is going. Everyone who attended training in July want to as well as others.
Cece/GA/1 - All our 1st, 2nd & 3rd are trying it this year. Some are just beginning with the word wall. One K is doing building blocks. In 1st we meet once a week to divide up our units and gather resources.
Cheryl - Linda, we all found that we were doing something close to 4-Blocks. This model just helps manage it all so well and puts a philosophy behind it, too!
Lisa/CA/? - Jamie -- before you leave tonight -- click on mailrings at the top of the page after you log off -- it will explain how to sign up for the 4Blocks mailring!
Lynn/SC/3 - I have some pre-emergent readers... they seem to like to have me read the paragraph and then choral read it back to me.... I thought it would be slower going than it is, but it is actually faster than having your slow ones stumble over every word.... a lot more uplifting, too, for them to be able to mumble when they don't know a word....
jenny - I just recently started using 4Blocks and would like some suggestions on how to or where to go to learn more about using running records.
Tina3FL - Cheryl, I think looking at this as a framework makes it less intimidating.
Tracy - Hi Cheryl. I'm Tracy from VA. My partner and I are teaching a K/1 multiage program and are starting 4block this year. We are grappling with how to maintain the benefits of multiage but still follow the framework. Any suggestions?
Cheryl - Lynn, good suggestion for beginning the Guided Reading Block!
Laurie/AR - Our state is having us trained in ELLA Early Literacy Learning in Arkansas. In this, they suggest flexible ability grouping. They also suggest using the guided reading books like Rigby etc, rather than using a basal. The basal is really too hard for most of them.
Cheryl - Tina, yes, I like thinking of it as a framework, too. That what Pat always calls it. It's just the way we package instruction.
Laurie/AR - Thanks, Lynn. I will be doing that with some of mine tomorrow.
REI - The Month by Month phonics book for 2nd grade doesn't introduce Making Words until October. Is there a reason for waiting that long?
Cheryl - Laurie, the problem ends up when flexible ability grouping isn't really flexible. I see that happen so often.
Cheryl - REI, I would just regard the MxM book as a guideline. No one knows your kids like you do!
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl i agree flexibility grouping ends up not being so flexible 28 years of experience
Lynn/SC/3 - Laurie, if I could make a suggestion, find a poem with rhythm to model with them, until they get the hang of choralling/echoing back to you....
Laurie/AR - You're right. One teacher even said, "you can move 'em down but don't ever move them up because then they would be at frustration level," I like to think that she got her words backwards. I can't imagine the thought of never being able to move up.
Kathy - I was a firm believer in ability grouping, but since last year I have really changed. Sitting around a table with a bunch of kids who can't read their way out of a paper bag without a model is no fun for anyone. It is agonizing.
Tina3FL - Anyone going to share with parents at open house some of the activities done in the 4 blocks?
Cece/GA/1 - Although we know ability grouping does little for our struggling readers, it's hard not to fall back on the old habits. Have we been brainwashed, or what :0)
Cheryl - A moment ago someone asked how to get on the mailring. Go to teachers.net and look for mailring on the home page. Click on it and then click on 4-Blocks Literacy on the next page. Then follow the directions and you'll be joining us soon!
Sherri - Hi Cheryl! I have a question regarding SSR. Why does the teacher select the books for the baskets, rather than teach the kids how to select books at an appropriate level for themselves?
Laurie/AR - We have been reading lots of poetry. I'll look for one to read with them.
Cheryl - Laurie, exactly right! That's what 4-Blocks prevent---kids from getting in a track (also known as a rut!).
Ike - Cheryl, I wish you and Patricia would make month by month suggestions for the other 3 blocks at each grade level. Any chance that this might happen?
Linda/CA - Cheryl--I have a 9 year old retention in second grade--he does not know even 1/2 the alphabet yet, and only 5 sounds--and can not read any words at all--any suggestions for hime? Cannot keep his attention at all during guided reading--no output in writin
jenny - Any suggestions for utilizing running records? My parents are not happy unless grades are written somewhere.
Lee - When your 4-block book comes out later this year for upper grades, will you cover each of the blocks ? I am a first year 4-blocker at fifth grade level and trying to implement ideas from the information at primary level. Could use help since there is little written to upper grades in books like yours.
Tracy - My partner and I were thinking about doing a mini 4 blocks at back to school night and then sharing some of the literature in the 4 blocks teacher's guide.
Kathy - Someone on the mailring gave a great parent night activity. Do a making words with the big word being parents. You can also make partners out of the same letters. Is that great, or what! You'll probably get a standing ovation.
Lynn/SC/3 - tina, there is a website in the mailring today where they did a slide presentation that really pulls parents into it.... I wish I had known it was there before my parent's night
Laurie/AR - I am going to let the kids have their individual book baskets made out of cereal boxes. They choose 3-4 books they want to read and I choose some for them. Then they can write in their reading logs.
Cheryl - Sherri, the books come to the kids for several reasons: 1) to expose them to a wide variety other than what they might choose; 2) to keep them from roaming---the child who most needs to read, roams the whole time, 3) to manage the classroom so that conferences can occur.
Tracy - There was a cute suggestion in one of the books that takes you through a working with words for parents.
Cece/GA/1 - tina- I shared some with my parents when we had an open house the night before school started. There have also been parents helping. I think the biggest sell is my enthusiasm!!
Cheryl - Kathy, thanks for that idea. Everyone should try that one. We've got to educate parents about what's occurring in our classes. Otherwise, they might think we're just playing games all day!
Marti/CA/ - is it legal to use. I'd like to do something like that for open house Cheryl i agree flexibility grouping ends up not being so flexible 28 years of experience
Tina3FL - I use teachers guide to the four blocks in much the same way as mxm phonics.
laura - Cheryl, we did our first guided reading today..it went really well, except for 3 second graders that were so lost in the story that they couldn't comprehend...do you have any suggestions?
Lynn/SC/3 - http://www.k111.k12.il.us/lafayette/4blocks/sld001.htm
Cheryl - Marti, we've all been there, haven't we?
Cheryl - Marti, is what legal? I think I missed something!!!
Laurie/AR - Does anyone have suggestions for a student who does not speak English well. She know enough to read but has no idea what she's read.
Cheryl - Laura, what support were you offering? What format?
jenny - Cheryl,I started using my words block today and it went well. The kids really seemed to enjoy it. Do you have any suggestions for me to give to parents who still hold on to the need for letter grades?
Kathy - Laura - Maybe they'll get it the second time through. How about giving them a question to read tofind the answer for, and breaking it down int smaller chunks?
kay - I still think I am confused about running ssr. Why am I so confused.
Lisa/CA/? - Continue doing 4 Blocks -- making sure that you use hands-on materials -- make sure this child understands -- possibly pair up with a compassionate child
Sherri - What I did last year with SSR was allow kids to select books (after teaching the 5-finger test) and they kept them in a big "group" tub. They selected them every Monday, and each group of kids put theirs together in the tub to share throughout the week. No roaming was allowed, and they were to select books from the tub before beginning.
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl Lynn talked about a schools's wbsite that has a powerpoint presentaion about 4 blocks. I would love to down load and use it if it is possible and legal
Cheryl - You must set a purpose daily for kids during Guided Reading. It makes a tremendous difference.
Cheryl - Kay, what are you confused about? We're here to help!
Lynn/SC/3 - I don't know, marti, but usually you can grab something within 4 days for a one time use educationally.... don't know if that fits here or not.
Laurie/AR - I have another student from Russia. She speaks English very well. I paired them together thinking they would have something in common. I think it went well.
Tina3FL - This sounds silly, but I have a kitchen timer and the ticking drives me crazy. I put it in my desk drawer and only hear the ding now!
Cheryl - Marti, I haven't seen it either. I've read about it on the mailring. I hope it's according to the "real" thing.
Susan - I am trying out the Open Court Phonics progam this year. How can that be used with 4 blocks, or can it?
Marcia/Ca - Cheryl would the 4 blocks program work in a resource room with small groups of students with like skills ?
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl--I flippped through it and it appeared to be the real thing
Tracy - kay, i read something in one of the books about doing "book centers" during ssr. I am thinking about trying this approach. The way I understand it is you would use baskets or areas of the room to set up a "favorite authors center," a "books about science center," or a "fairy tales center" and so on. The kids can choose or you can organize a rotation.
kay - should the children be accountable to have read a book a week or a specific number of pages. Again, my school wants grades, etc.
Cheryl - Susan, I think that's a whole different philosophy that drives Open Court Phonics.
Kathy - Tracy, I like that idea. I may try something similar.
Cece/1/GA - Susan- we use open court, too. I use it as part of the words block, which I make longer to accomodate open court and the 4 Blocks activities. They really don't get bored. The activities are too interesting!
Cheryl - Marcia, it might be that you would just use some of the activities. It will be extremely difficult if you don't have the balance and diversity.
Lynn/SC/3 - Cheryl, it is a presentation for parents, much like the one I got when I went to my training.... only parent oriented... was good.. added a "fifth" block.... parent participation after school.... i liked drawing the parents into it in a meaningful way...
Kathy - In second grade, how do kids record SSR books read? Does anyone have them do any followup written activity?
Tina3FL - I used open court this summer. I felt like I was teaching with my hands tied behind my back.
jenny - Looking for help in utilizing some kind of running records. HELP!
Cheryl - Tracy, I've not sure why you would want to make life more difficult for yourself by having centers during SSR. It also might distract many kids who need quiet and no movement during this time. You must be conferencing after a couple of weeks when you get the kids settled.
Kelly/1st/MO - Tracy, Will you organize your books by levels in each of your book areas?
Sherri - Kathy, I used to do follow up activities after DEAR time, but when I went to 4 blocks, I found it wasn't really necessary. I get a lot of info from the conferences, and students are so wrapped up in their reading! I wouldn't go back to response sheets.
Tracy - Something else that I have learned is that if kids know there is time at the end of SSR to share what they've read or to "sell" their book, they have a real purpose for reading. They are more apt to use the time to really read the book. I've been thinking about some creative ways to motivate kids to read during ssr. I am going to include a "zoo center" where the kids can read to a stuffed animal. Another idea I got from one of the books was to make a cardboard t.v. and the kids could report about their book from behind the t.v. at the end of the block.
Tina3FL - I don't have my kids record their books in SSR. I record the book they choose to conference with me and record it in their file.
Cheryl - I hope everyone on here realizes that as fast as the screen moves and when you're typing at the same time it's easy to miss some comments. If it appears that we've overlooked someone's comment or question, please ask again!
jenny - Cheryl, I'm looking for a way to utilize running records in my classroom. Do you have any suggestions?
Lynn/SC/3 - I do have an activity once a quarter with SSR... the children pick their favorite book and make a poster advertising it.... we use one SSR period each 9 weeks for that...
kay - when do you encouage the kids to select a book that may be more challenging than what they are reading currently?
Cheryl - With SSR, be sure that you don't start the year by giving the kids more time than they can be expected to sit and read---maybe just 5-10 minutes to start.
Linda/CA - Any suggestions for a 9 year old 2nd grade retention who does not know 1/2 the alphabet, only 5 sounds, no words, doesn't even draw during writing, plays during SSR, etc.
Tina3FL - Two things seem to motivate my 3rd graders in ssr. I gave them a big post it so they could keep their place and finish tomorrow, and having a couple kids share.
Sherri - jenny, I do running records during SSR conferences, and I also have a part time aid that does them as well.
Cheryl - Kay, during the conference time we do that. You must still let them self-select the materials and they will occasionally pick books too hard or too easy. But, we learn to guide them to what's appropriate.
Kathy - Linda - This kid needs a special ed referral.What's the IQ?
Lynn/SC/3 - linda, look into auditory processing difficulties.... I had one like that two years ago, and once we identified the problem and addressed it, he took off....
Cheryl - Linda, has this child been identified for any special programs?
Tracy - Cheryl, these are not traditional centers. It is an idea I read about in one of the 4 blocks books or perhaps in Classrooms That Work. The centers are merely baskets of related books such as books by the same author, or books about science or math, books on cd rom, or listening to books on tape. It is still SSR, but a way to give a little more structure. I am not an expert and do not pretend to be. Do you think the reading centers are too much?
Cece/1/GA - Linda- have you done any of the name activities? These really interested my 1st graders, and could be used as a springboard for letter recognition.
Linda/CA - He is already in RSP--but belongs in SDC--on Ritalin
Sherri - Jenny, I only do RR on each kid 1x a marking period, except for the lower kids. I do 2-3 a marking period. I do not do RR during every SSR conference
Kathy - Linda- also look at phonemic awareness at an auditory level. You have to be able to hear the order of sounds before you can read it.
Cheryl - Tracey, I'm for making the hectic life of a teacher less hectic! I wouldn't try the centers just yet---but that's totally your decision!
Linda/CA - Did PA--did Ok on sentences--couldn't no any of the other sections
Tracy - I'll take your advice and start out slowly. Maybe the centers are something I'll try later in the year if I notice kids needing a change of pace.
Marti/CA/ - Tracy I think I know wht you are talking about I believe in the 4 blocks book it say something like instead of having onw group of kids a t their desk you could have a group do big book reading etc. while the other kids are doing basket reading
Tina3FL - I'm with you Cheryl, I have explained the 4 seperate blocks to my kids and told them we are all going to get used to each block and add to each later.
kay - Besides running records what other types of record keeping do you do during SSR?
Kathy - Tracy - I think the centers would work if the were only available to half the class (or less) each day. then the kids at their seats would be your conference kids.
Cheryl - Hardly anyone has mentioned Writing Block. Is that an easier one to start for all of you?
Lynn/SC/3 - I pull my hair out with writing block since we add structure in third and they are always resistant...
Cheryl - Tina, did you do 4-Blocks last year, too? I can't remember.
Tina3FL - My problem in writing is to keep myself from going on to long with the mini- lesson.
Marti/CA/ - oops only partof my message went I think and way you would rotate the other groups on other days to the big book center or whatever
REI - No.....I actually find it the hardest block.
Cece/1/GA - It really was easier for me. The minilessons were so natural, and the kids really respond. Maybe it's because I can see their progress so quickly!
jenny - Cheryl, I have a class of fourth graders reading at a second grade level. This is why I started using 4-Blocks. I'm needing help explaining the grading process to the parents. Do you have any suggestions?
Tina3FL - Cheryl, got pretty much into it and seemed to have it down by the last 9 weeks of school.
Tracy - I also should add that we have four adults, maybe five during SSR. I team teach and we have two very competent teaching assistants and the reading specialist on occassion. We all will be confernencing with groups of children wherever they are reading.
JO - I began writing last week- a piece on deserts- they are really into researching 1st- 3rd grade. I was surprised!
Kathy - Cheryl - Writing is easy to start, but not so easy to do well because there are so many topics for mini lessons, and I have a hard time narrowing it down. I could think of a millin things and we only have 189 days.
Cheryl - Lynn, I believe that finding the right balance between focused (structured, I guess) and free choice is important. You can still accomplish a great deal through your modelling even when you don't require it of the students.
Cheryl - Jenny, it's hard for me to say when I don't know how you've decided to grade. There are some folks who think you can't issue grades and teach 4-Blocks. That isn't true.
Tina3FL - I would like to get some help during writing time
Susan - We wrote today for the first time and one of my girls was talking about it at recess. Her comment was that she thought about writing about a pet but decided to write about a move instead. She was so enthusiastic about her writing and so was I.
Cece/1/GA - It's amazing how they imitate your writing! Even when I write the interview with the name activity, I talk out loud about different conventions of print and many of them begin to use them.
Sherri - writing is my weak point! The kids loved writing last year. The minilessons are my weakest point.
Tracy - I know that this is not the norm. Believe me, I feel VERY lucky! It will definately make it easier to begin 4 blocks.
Lynn/SC/3 - We had susan miller come to our school and she modeled the lesson with some fourths, who were my thirds previously.... she was very structured.... are you saying we don't have to be structured? I do writing block mon-thurs, and fri is free writing....
Cheryl - Tracy, how did you end up with so much help?
JO - Are there going to be any 4 Block Workshops in the Iowa area? I really need some training to feel comfortable. I'm really being watched--my principal was in for my whole Words block today- first year anyone in our district has used it that I know of.
Cheryl - Sherri, is it difficulty in determining a mini-lesson? Do you have a curriculum?
Ike - I am thinking about having my title parapro come in during writing. What do you think?
jenny - Cheryl, I can see grading GR and even Writing but how to do feel about grading the Words Block?
Tracy - Has anyone used "daily news" to introduce the writing block with K/1 aged children? Is this a good way to start or does anyone have other suggestions?
Cheryl - Lynn, exactly! You do not have to do so much structured writing. You can grow your kids without that.
JO - I have a Title I teacher in for guided reading and an associate for Words and Writing.
Tina3FL - Some of my kids are already on their 3rd piece, because I told them they couldn't start editing or publish until then.
carol - I had to step away and missed the answer to the power point site. also how do I get the chat from the beginning
Lisa/CA/? - I need to run....thanks for all of the great info and support Cheryl! Night all!
Tracy - Cheryl, I teach in a magnet school in Northern Virginia. All of our classrooms are set up this way. Every K/1 teacher has a full time/full day assistant. Most of us teach multiage also. It has been a dream in most cases.
Lynn/SC/3 - That would really take the pressure off.... thanks cheryl...
Cheryl - Tracy, are you referring to the daily news of the school or class? I like to start just by telling the kids that I have something to share with them---just something I want to tell them. Make it something very ordinary and every day.
Sherri - Cheryl-yes, determining the topic is the most difficult. We are supposed to be getting a new writing program for this year, and I have yet to see it. We used to have Stack the Deck.
Cheryl - Lisa, thanks for being here!
JO - Sherri- did you like the Stack the Deck program?
Tina3FL - I have 16 of my previous students and there are 23 in my class this year. I looped up to 3rd. This has really been great because they already have some 4 blocks experience and are helping the new ones.
Tracy - I was talking about the class news where several students are invited to share a bit of news. Now that I think about it, it may not be modeling the "thinking" part of writing.
Sherri - not really. I tended to do more of my own stuff.
Cece/1/GA - Jenny-we have to give spelling grades and I base them on my words block. I usually use magnetic letters on the board and change the beginning sounds on"chunks". They do well with this, and I get my grades.
Kathy - Do you find kids using what you teach in the mini-lessons? If they are usually choosing what to write about, sometimes I wonder. Cheryl - Sherri, the topic truly should be ordinary, everyday kinds of things----what your husband did that was funny, something you enjoyed on a walk yesterday, what your new baby did when he ate carrots for the first time---just "stuff." This makes the kids feel that writing is attainable for them. Don't write something grand or it'll turn them off.
Sherri - Not many teachers in the lower el were using the Stack the Deck program.
Leah T./1st/IN - My question is I have several students that qualified for reading recovery and lack lots of literacy skills. I have been doing shared reading and phonemic awareness activities with them.
Di - Title I teachers from my school will come into my room for about 1/2 hour each day--what block do you think I should schedule for the time they are there. It is the only time I will have more than one teacher in the room.
Cheryl - Kathy, Donald Graves says that when we always assign topics to chidren, we create a "writers' welfare" and kids will always expect a handout! I believe that. Yes, kids can grow if you don't assign the topics and they'll be more interested in what they write.
Leah T./1st/IN - My students are really doing a nice job with Writer's workshop. I have found modeling and going around and helping indivdually has really helped.
Tina3FL - I had my kids make a list of things they could write about. They then have to be able to do what we call the five finger rule.
teach1st - I would like to thank you Cheyl, you really making a difference
Tracy - Kathy, I read something in classrooms that work that I think would help kids use the mini lessons in their writing. The teacher compiled and editing checklist. She began very slowly by only having them check for their name and date. She gradually added items to the editing list with the date after each item to show when it was added to the list. I am not doing it justice. You may want to check out the section on writing in the classrooms that work book.
Cheryl - Leah, doesn't sound like a question. sounds like you know what to do!
Lynn/SC/3 - tina, tell me what the five finger rule is?????
Sherri - That is what many of us did, Cheryl, in lower el. THEN I discovered Four Blocks! I love it!
Cheryl - Teach1st, thanks! I really enjoy helping and I learn so much in the process!
Marti/CA/ - Cheryl If I do an adaped form of the 1st grade names activity with the 2nd grades and have do a pictue and write about it Is that done in the wrjiter's workshop?
Kelly/1st/MO - If you could only have help during one block, which block would you choose?
Leah T./1st/IN - Do most of people use Scholastic News or Weekly Reader for guided reading? Any strong opinions one over the other?
REI - Kelly~I would pick the Writing Block.
Cheryl - Marti, yes, you can do that in writing. It's really a mixture of writing, words, and guided reading (concepts).
Cheryl - Most teachers tell me they start with SSR. I think maybe it isn't as threatening.
Tina3FL - I stole the idea from a teacher in SC. Trace your hand, put topic in the palm and write on each finger something you can put in your story. If you can't come up with at least 5 maybe you should try another topic.
Tracy - Leah, my partner and I were considering the same thing. I think we are leaning more toward weekly reader since it fits nicely with our science and social studies curriculum for our grade levels.
Kathy - I used Weekly reader last year. we switched to scholastic because it is easier and sticks to one topic.
Cheryl - Leah, someone told me they were ordering Weekly Reader a grade level below their grade to use for easier day reading. I thought that was a pretty good idea.
Cece/1/GA - I would see which block I felt the kids needed more support. It would depend on your students and what you feel they need more support with.
Lynn/SC/3 - I thought I was stuck with those five boxes, have been sick of them for about 2 years now... glad to know I can drop some of the structure....
Leah T./1st/IN - Self-Selected Reading has been really super. My students come up and share each day and each day I seem to draw out one reader and one non-reader, but the read the pictures so well that most of the students don't know or cares. This makes all the studen
Tracy - Leah, I think it depends on your grade level also. Weekly Reader for primary sticks to one topic.
Tina3FL - I used Scholastic News last year. Heard a great idea from someone at the training in FL. Order the scholastic news a grade level below and you can use it for the days when you need to read something easier.
Cheryl - CeCe, and it would depend on where you feel most confident as you're beginning implementation.
Cheryl - Lynn, definitely don't get stuck on using graphic organizers for all of your writing. Offer as a menu not as a recipe!
Leah T./1st/IN - One day with my students I modeled making a list about something and they really liked this for a change. I try to choose a new form of writing to model once a week. They may choose to write the same type of thing or finish what they were working on or
Cheryl - I think too many teachers have begun to dictate a certain graphic organizer with a certain type of writing. Gets too formula-like---yucky!
Tracy - Cheryl, what kinds of writing activities would you suggest for K's in the writing block?
Cheryl - Lynn, free at last! Glad you asked about that!
Leah T./1st/IN - I team teach I wondered if anyone elses is doing this?
Kathy - Do people use journal notebooks or loose paper for writing? I think I'm switching to paper in loose leaf notebooks so that we can edit more easily.
Lynn/SC/3 - When I took my training two years ago, it was presented as basically the only way to follow the model.... glad to see there are other thoughts on it... I actually got to ask Pat that question, and she said what you said pretty much... but it was a large group and I really thought I hadn't made my question clear..
Cheryl - Tracy, I wouldn't do a lot with formal writing in K. I would model through Morning Message and End of the Day. I would make writing opportunities available in the Writing Center for now. You've got to build concepts for now. Model scribble, pictures and some real writing.
teach1st - I like the idea Cheryl recommended with the spiral notebook so that kids could illurstrate on the opposite page
REI - Leah~I do. I have been team teaching for the last three years.
Tina3FL - I use the paper pronged folders with pockets and notebook paper.
Cece/1/GA - I use loose paper and give them the choice of picture paper, handwriting paper or looseleaf notebook paper.
teach1st - All their papers stay together and while they are reading to the class the illustration shows cause it's on the left side of the spiral notebook I'm gonna do this this year
Cheryl - The spiral does work well so that as kids fold it back to share---the illustration shows out to the class and they "read" from the other side. Skip every other line when they write so that editing/revisiing is easier.
Vicki/1/TN - I gave my 1st graders a spiral notebook which I had cut in half. Seems less threatening as they don't have to write as much just now.
Leah T./1st/IN - I teach two different groups of children each day maybe I will order scholastic for one class and Weekly Reader for the other
Cheryl - This has been a good session, I think! I believe we could go on all night! I guess we didn't plan for a slumber party did we? I hate to go, but I must! Thank you all for being here and for your continued support of this model. It does such wonderful things for kids and for teachers, don't you think?
JO - Thanks for mind-food tonight everyone! Hope to see you in IA soon Cheryl- thanks!
Vicki/1/TN - I'm LOVING 4 blocks!!!
teach1st - When you use the children of the day idea it makes it easier to have children share at the end of the writing block
Cheryl - Yes, I hope to meet the CA group!
Lynn/SC/3 - Thank you Cheryl, for all the great advice and support. It takes people like you to make this work!
Cece/1/GA - Cheryl, thanks for all the articles and e-mails to the ring. It keeps me on track.
teach1st - Yes the children are lucky to have four blocks GOOD NIGHT CHERYL
Leah T./1st/IN - We use the Mead composition books and parents grouch at first then when I tell them this is like a diary of their thoughts in first grade they offer to buy any extras I need.
Kathleen - For information about 4-Blocks training, contact Educational Resources Group at http://ergsc.com or e-mail ergbell@lowcountry.com
Cheryl - We'll have more opportunities here, I'm sure! See you on the mailring!
Cheryl - Good night all!
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