Beachteach/2 - Does your school have to adopt this model or can you do this individually?
Robyn - My school is adopting this model for primary but I was wondering if I could do it, too.
REI/2nd - Beach~I am actually piloting the model along with another 2nd grade teacher. We will be implementing the model in grades 1-3 next year.
Joanie - I'm piloting the 4 blocks for my county and I was wondering if anyone can really do all 4 blocks in the time recom. by the experts (30-40 min. for guided reading for example)
Beachteach/2 - Did you bring this model to your school's attention or was it the other way around?
Joan/1/NE - Joanie, is that for all groups?
Joan/1/NE - Ok like I mean, you have 3 groups of children, 10 minutes for each group?
REI/2nd - Joanie~My Guided Reading Block is 45 minutes long. We cover all 3 segments during that time. I have found I can do it, but must make sure to have set the timer to keep me and the class on task.
Gretchen - I teach in a small rural community and would like to find out more about the 4 bloock -- where should I go?
Grace - Gretchen a good resource is the book Month by Month by Pat Cunningham
REI/2nd - Beachteach~I brought the model to the attention of my district last year.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - does anyone have any ideas to share about using four blocks in a multiage class...Right now I am doing mostly 3rd grade activities...luckily most of my 2nds are above grade level..
Joan/1/NE - I kind of read through the book last summer. I had a hard time figuring out how to do it with brand new 1st graders.....But I was brand new, too. Now, I "see" how it would work with late first grade. --Grace, that's the book I'm talking about.
Joanie - I think anyone can implement it in the classroom but it helps if your district adopts the model too.
Grace - Joanie, I agree. The elements can be implement in any classroom, but it good when it is followed through the grade levels.
rose - Does anyone use four blocks in a special ed classroom
aggie/1/ca - Joan/NE--- I've read the book about 3 times now! LOL! I "did" 4 blocks last year and had a lot of success---- but this year!! Hooo-eee! My kids have really taken off! Stick w/it--- each year gets easier and better.
Joan/1/NE - That's what I figured, aggie. It will be easier next year when I have a little experience under the ole belt.
Gretchen - Can you give me a brief idea of each of the 4 blocks. I am in Canada and maybe it is something we are already doing, but with using different terms
Micteach - I have had great success with the model
aggie/1/ca - Yes, it will, Joan. I was glad to see that you're gonna stick w/1st grade next year.
Grace - It does get easier each year. This is my third year using the model.
Beachteach/2 - After you read the book Month by Month, which I will get, what comes next?
NancyD9047 - Could we talk about how you manage the planning part?
REI/2nd - Rose~yes, our 2nd grade LD teacher has been using the model this year.
MarkKS - where in Ok, Laura
Laura/OK - I'm in Norman.
aggie/1/ca - Gretchen--- it's a way of implementing lang. arts instruction. You have 4 time periods, each about 30 -40 min. long. One is for Word Wall work, one is for guided reading, another is for self selected reading and the last is writer's workshop.
REI/2nd - Beachteach~you need the Teachers Guide for Implementing the 4 Blocks book, too.
Micteach - I really like the model. Even though I am the only one in the building using it
aggie/1/ca - Beachteach--- a good one for me has been the Teacher's Guide to the 4 Blocks.
rose - REI, I would appreciate any information about that.
SandyA42 - Our whole school district is being trained to do 4 blocks
Micteach - I had a student teacher visit for an hour today. She was impressed with the pacing of the word block
Joan/1/NE - The word wall takes up so much space. Any ideas? I just don't have the room. How big should it be? It's got to be big enough for all the children to see, from their place, right?
Laura/OK - Has anyone seen the video? My principal will buy it for me, but I want to know if it's good.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - the teachers guide is absolutely necessary along with the mbm for your grade level...it is your hole literacy program (well most of it)
aggie/1/ca - Micteach----- that was me last year. But, when my first graders hit 2nd grade this year they really did well on their assessments. So a lot of teachers came to me and now several of the first and the 2nd grade teachers are doing it.
Micteach - My class is very difficult this year. .. I think the pace is helping me keep my sanity and keeping most learning
Beachteach/2 - OK Thanks. What is the mbm?
SandyA42 - Our district decided that ALL
Gretchen - Great! thanks a lot -- all activities we participate in regularly and I will do more reading now.
aggie/1/ca - Yes, Joan. But some teachers have tried putting the words on little stickers and having an ind. word wall for each child on a file folder.
SandyA42 - teachers must use 4 block
REI/2nd - Laura~there are new videos that are coming out. They were filmed at the Four Blocks conference in Feb. The idea is for them to be a companion piece for the Teachers Guide.
Linda/2/CA - month by month
Micteach - I am in 2nd and the third grade teachers are very happy with my kids from last year writing
Grace - Mbm is the book Month by Month and there is a separate book for different grades
aggie/1/ca - Laura---- it's ok but not vital. I got it--- but if you have a pretty good idea of what to do, it doesn't have a lot of new or diff. info.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - the month by month book for each grade level is the phonics component
rose - When are the new vidoes coming out?
SandyA42 - In a couple of years if a teacher is not trained in 4block they will not be hired.
Laura/OK - I used one of my black boards for the word wall. It's magnetic, so I put magnetic tape on the back of each word. The children can go up to the wall and get a word they need, and put it back when they are through.
aggie/1/ca - I put my word wall above the chalkboard.
Micteach - It does make a difference!! I am convinced..Of course this afternoon my children acted like they had never seen a sentence..let alone a paragraph.
Robyn - Sandy, where do you live?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - the word block is my kids favorite...they love all the "games"
SandyA42 - I teach in Greenville, South Carolina.
Micteach - Marcia.. my kids too. They love it.. but writing is a close second
Linda/2/CA - Mine too marcia--even my very low ones feel like they can be successful
REI/2nd - Rose~I am not sure. I know that the Guided Reading book is to be available at IRA. Really looking forward to getting my hands on it there.
Robyn - No way! Me, too!! Actually, at Buena Vista.
aggie/1/ca - I asked my kiddos yesterday which they liked most/least--- word wall was least (!) and writer's workshop was overwhelming fave.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - writing is my weak spot.....but working with words...and making words I could do everyday
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - I agree Micteach..my kids are publishing on the PC
Windsore - Robyn~ I did my student teaching at Buena Vista
Beachteach/2 - Thanks for the information.I will get the MbM and teachers guide, read and come back when I have read them.Thanks again.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - we have been playing sparkle with the word wall...it allows some of the lowes children to succeed
Joan/1/NE - Wow! Good for you aggie. my kids don't really care for writing..... I love to write...I mean LOVE to write.. but I can't get the kiddos to love it as much as I do.
Robyn - When? I've been there 7 years,
Linda/2/CA - I have found that working with words has improved my student's writing--at least I can read it now LOL
Micteach - Marcia.. I do know what you mean, but the kids are really doing well. I teach science to the other second grade class and I cannot believe how little I get from them, compared to what my kids can do.. even when they are acting like they can't do anything.. like today
aggie/1/ca - Sparkle, Marcia??? What's that??? Can you tell us?
rose - Marcia, what is sparkle?
SandyA42 - Robyn, I am having trouble with the chat window. Hard to find new messages.
Windsore - The year before you got there
Micteach - Since my minilab..4 computes in my room is up and running my kids love to publish.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - That's right Marcia, I can do it too (1st year)
SandyA42 - Anyway, Robyn, I live in Travelers Rest and teach at Duncan Chapel.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - I was a long term sub in a class where there were 15 of the 20 kids getting title 1 and other services..they loved all the different four blocks activities...
REI/2nd - Aggie~My kids LOVE writing. We have been using Jim Cunningham's writing ideas and lessons from the Craft Lessons book. My kids BEG everyday to have the writing block early.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - We went through lots of drafts before publishing
Micteach - I need to get the Craft lessons book. I can tell
Joan/1/NE - I'm thinking I need to revisit the 4Blocks manual...
aggie/1/ca - Wow, REI!
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Know what you mean Sandy---it's not as user friendly as AOL
Micteach - Joan..every time I get a little complacent, I find new energy when I revisit the 4blocks books
SandyA42 - Does anyone thing 4 block might be too intense for first graders?
Micteach - Right now I am reading Phonics they use again
Linda/2/CA - sandy--nope
Marcia/2-3/Ca - the children stand in a line with their backs to the word wall (takes the whole wall) and I use the second grade words.... The first child says the first letterl...and alll the way to the end...after the word is spelled..the next one says the word, the next child says sparkle and the next sits down...some kids who easily spell the word sit down before we even get to them...because they know it will be them
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Not at all. My lowest readers are doing great
Micteach - I don't think so.. sandy..but I teach 2nd... will be first next year
SandyA42 - I teach fifth grade and have to wait to be trained until next year, but I am excited about 4 block for that age level.
REI/2nd - Micteach~it is really good. I also picked up a book called "Teaching Writing using Children's Literature" while at the 4 Blocks conference in North Carolina in Feb.
aggie/1/ca - Not me, Sandy! Mine are all Title 1, second language learners--- very at risk kids and they are doing great! They love reading.
Gretchen - I am part of our ocal professional development committee and also sit with the Primary teachers -- can you suggest some people that would be good for some in-service?
SandyA42 - Great, Aggie
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Mine too Aggie
Marcia/2-3/Ca - I got the Craft Lesson...book and was disappointed...there wasn't enough for the primary grades.
SandyA42 - I am glad to hear that since I have a first grade grandson. :-)
SandyA42 - 4 block seems to meet all modalities. I like that a lot.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Some of our teachers have been doing 4 blocks for 5 years, but others this is our first. You can see the kiddos who come from 4 block Teachers
aggie/1/ca - I just love teaching this way! I've seen so much growth in myself since I started using the 4 blocks.
Linda/2/CA - I am finally getting some of our K teachers interested in Building Blocks
Micteach - Sandy..not to change the subject but aren't grandchildren wonderful
Laura/OK - I think 4 blocks is more developmentally appropriate than lots of teaching that I've seen in first grade classrooms.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - When teachers come to the district with 4 blocks, they are hired right away
SandyA42 - Yes, Micteach. They sure are. LOL
SandyA42 - I tend to worry about how hard we push children at such a young age, however.
Micteach - I agree.. Laura. My background is really kinder.. I have taught 2nd for 2 years, but and so glad to be moving down. I think it shoudl work well with my firsts next year
G2/TX - Somebody please tell me what the Craft leson book is?
aggie/1/ca - I wish the Univ. out here in CA would start using some of these ideas in their teacher training courses.
SandyA42 - According to our district, 4 block is the only reading program that has research to prove that it really works.
Kathy NH/2 - We are looking for a new principal. I hope we can find someone with 4block knowledge.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - That's right Laura, which is what teaching is all about-----teaching to their capabilities
aggie/1/ca - Sandy---- where are you? That is wonderful!
Linda/2/CA - aggie--Gail Tompkins at Fresno State Un is doing some of it
SandyA42 - I am glad we are adopting something that is proven to work, but a little bit worried about the requirement that ALL teachers must teach the same way.
Dusty - I have some teachers coming to learn about 4 Blocks- I'm self taught through Pat cunningham's book- does anyone have any ideas about what i can tell them in a short period of time. What handouts or info should I try to get across?
kat - I'm the reading spec. at Fountain Inn El. in SC (Hi Duncan Chapel) and would like any input anyone has on ordering books for guided reading off-grade level days, as well as books for book clubs
SandyA42 - I am in Greenville county, SC, Aggie
Micteach - It is because it is sooo balanced. Everybody gets what they need.
Sal/4/CA - San Diego is heavy on the literacy bandwagon, but doesn't say 4 blocks outright
LindaPA - I am a Kindergarten Teacher and I want to use this. I have used parts of it. I need more info. Is there going to be a Building Blocks meeting soon. I copied everything from th archives.
aggie/1/ca - Great, Linda! I know the last 2 st. teachers (last year and this one) that I've had had never heard of it or Pat Cunningham. They came from Cal State Fullerton.
Linda/2/CA - she put out a book--and when I got it, it was just like reading month by month or teachers guide to 4 blocks
dltb - Is anyone doing guided reading the Fountas and Pinnell way along with 4 blocks y
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Look at the new 4 Block Lesson Plan Book. It gives subs and new people shortcuts to learning 4 blocks
Sal/4/CA - Kat- I can help w/book clubs
Micteach - Linda.. I had just discovered Building Blocks when I moved to 2nd.. never had an opportunity to use it..but.. I loved what I read.
Lil - Lori, I'm looking for a class to observe in Cincinnati area.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Does that help Dusty?
Kathy NH/2 - Dusty- I hope they will obdserve. There's some good handout material in the Teachers Guide book. Make sure you get the BALANCE part across.
Micteach - Lori.. have that book on order
Laura/OK - Linda.. Have you read Classrooms that Work? It talks a lot about kindergartens. It's by P. Cunningham. We're doing a book study with it at my school.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - I'm in Toledo
SandyA42 - One nice thing is that our district is providing free of charge intensive training in 4 block. I just wish 5th grade teacher could get it this year like 1-3 are. But, I will be patient. LOL
Dusty - dltb- that is the part that i am uncertain about- I like to do small flex guided reading groups and the 4 blocks way.
G2/TX - Our school is mainly using on Fountas Pinell Gueded Reading
REI/2nd - Dusty~LOL!! I have my first group of teachers from another district coming to observe my classroom next week.
kat - I don't want to waste a single penny of our money.
SandyA42 - It seems that everyone who is using it on here is happy with it. That is very encouraging.
Dusty - Lori- please repeat what you said I was busy typing and missed your message.
kat - Has anyone ordered books from Literacy Empowerment $48 for 25, etc?
Linda/2/CA - for some of the veteran teachers--guided reading is the biggest stumbling block and the most resisted
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - I hear you Sandy. I'm hanging in too
LindaPA - No, thanks I need to know the time frames involved. We still are 1/2 day Kindergarten.
rw - Hi Guys! Has anyone heard Dottie Hall speak?
Dusty - REI- what are you planning to do when they come?
SandyA42 - Is there any individualized instruction included in 4 block, or is it all done in whole class type instruction?
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Dusty, I recommend buying the new 4 block lesson plan book from Acorns, etc
Micteach - I think that nice thing about 4-blocks is that though it is a framework..not every classroom looks exactly alike.
Linda/2/CA - Marcia has and I will hear her on May 6
Micteach - do not think it hampers individual styles
Marcia/2-3/Ca - Rw, yes ....a must...she is so funny
rw - It was very interesting
nan - Hi folks, I wanted to know how to conduct the guided reading groups.
REI/2nd - RW~I heard Dottie speak in Louiville, KY and then again when attending the 4 Blocks conference. Very practical.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Dusty, it is good for subs and newly trained people
Kathy NH/2 - Sandy - you meet with each kid twice a day for ssr and writing, and you circulate at Guided time. that adds up to lots of individual instruction.
Sal/4/CA - We do combo of guided reading and lit circles/book club groups. It works well now, but was touch earlier
SandyA42 - Right now in our district, upper grades are mainly using whole class literature and some children are left behind. They can answer comprehension questions only if they hear others read the story, not when they read it by themselves.
Micteach - RW I went to a workshop last spring that Dottie did. Wish I could go again
Dusty - Lori- could you briefly tell me what the format of the lesson plan book is? It sounds interesting.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - Dottie is doing a workshop for the teachers in the Vallejo, California school dist...we don't teach there,,,but in neighboring cities
rw - I bought the lesson plan book too. Very helpful!
Sal/4/CA - oops- tough. My students read at 1st grade level, for the most part.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - we have managed invitations....VBG
aggie/1/ca - Will you be able to attend, tho, Marcia?
rw - Cheap too! 10.00!
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Spiral bound with areas for all components of 4 Blocks, BUT in the back there is room set aside for quick little blurbs on how to teach Working with Words, etc
Linda/2/CA - yes aggie, katharine, marcia and I are attending
deb - the lesson plan book has sample lessons, it has the typical block sections, and an explanation of certain activities for subs
Dusty - Does anyone use small flexible guided reading groups?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - yes...Katharine, Lisa , Linda and I are going to talk during intermission as mentors
Kathy NH/2 - Sandy - that's OK! Guided reading is for comprehension. As long as they get their SSR every day, and you read easy stuff two days a week, you will see that all fits together.
rw - Do any of you use Houghton Mifflin for First Grade?
aggie/1/ca - Wow! I'm soooo jealous, Marcia, Linda and Katharine!
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Our district is buying one for all next year,yipeee
Dusty - Lori- I think I will get it- I have been trying to make up my own plans. This sounds easier.
aggie/1/ca - Is that out deb or have you just seen a preview copy?
deb - the skills taught during the small flexible guided reading groups can be taught during the ssr conferences, guess the covered word, and coaching groups
nan - I missed the message about the lesson plan book. Where can I get it?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - There was a latest schedule on today's mail ring..of Dottie, Cheryl and Pat's summer listings
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - I was printing from the web, but I know I'll be using next year
REI/2nd - Dusty~they are coming to watch my class in "action". I have them coming on they day my kiddos start with Library first thing in the day. It will give me approx. 45-50 minutes to talk about 4 Blocks before they ever see anything. I also have some materials that I and my training partner have put together ton's of informational materials for our training sessions.
Dusty - rw- we do use Houghton Mifflin in first grade.
LindaPA - I have Houghton Mifflin in Kindergarten. There is a big jump to first grade. I personally do not care for it.
aggie/1/ca - I've gotta re-join the mail ring!
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Lesson plan book is available from Acorns or probably your local teacher store
deb - rei -- who is coming?
Linda/2/CA - kat sent a mess to 4 blocks ring today about getting the plan bood from apples and acorns
rw - How do you use that with Guided reading, Dusty
dltb - dusty, I do small groups and have had great success I want to do 4 blocks next year and I'm wondering if i can keep my groups too
Marcia/2-3/Ca - I found one at GW the other day
viv - how do u teach sight words?
REI/2nd - Dusty~I use Coaching Groups (small flexible groups) at times.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Good 'ole Houghton Mifflin needs to move over for 4 blocks
Lil - I have trouble having my students read stories over again. any one else have this problem during guided reading?
deb - the sight words are taught through word wall activities and other working with word lessons
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Viv, sight words are taught from the Word Wall
G2/TX - What is GW
Micteach - We have to keep in mind that no matter what reading series we use we can use this framework.
Linda/2/CA - well lots of schools in CA are going to be using Open Court and I hear it doesn't work to well with 4b
nan - Where can I find out about goin to a 4 block training seminar.
deb - houghton mifflin is working with Pat Cunningham to make them compatiable
Linda/2/CA - gW--school supply store in CA
rw - Dusty, do you use anthology stories for Guided Reading?...along with the Phonics Bookshelf and Watch me Read...????????
Dusty - rw- I use that with the whole group on the 3 days a week that I have my on grade level reading. I use the stories mostly for comprehension and shared or partner reading with my first graders. Some of the phonic skills I use in my Working with Words block.
aggie/1/ca - Is that right, deb?? Great! Wish we had H/M now! We have Scholastic.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - they are online, too!
Linda/2/CA - GW is online http://www.gwschoolsupply.com
rw - Dusty, What do you use the other two days?
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Glad to hear that HM is working as team
viv - i'm a new k teacher and i'm not sure how to teach beginning reading. any suggestions?
deb - below grade level days can be poetry, shared reading of big books
crash - any one know how i can get any work sheets for 1st i am a home schooler mom
Linda/2/CA - they also have the highlighting tape--1/2" is $1.59--it is $1.98 at Crystal Springs
REI/2nd - deb~a district from another area is sending teachers to visit my class. I have been working with my district on inservicing our teachers. So far we (my training partner and I) have done the Guided Reading and Working with Words Blocks.
Dusty - rw- we don't have the phonics bookshelf or Watch me components. Are they supplemental. Our copyright is about 4 years old.
flowergirl - can anyone shear the best lesson they have ever done that has an awesome start to interest the kids?
Katharine/CA/1 - NEWS: the other 4 teachers are using straight Open Court. I have continued to use a 4-block presentation. My students scored noticably higher on a benchmark OC spelling test!! It works!!
aggie/1/ca - Linda--- have you heard this one? Open Court in some places is called Open Cult!
rw - Dusty, They are new. They do not have the Read Alone books anymore.
Dusty - deb- I also use poetry and big books for below level days.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - don't say that bad word Linda ...from what I heard...I would not want to think of using open court
Micteach - Katharine.. congratulations
aggie/1/ca - Katharine---- what sort of reading materials do you use if you don't use the Open Court stuff? Do you have lots of Wright Group/Rigby Readers?
frogster - deb, I saw Dottie on Mon. She said she was going to see "deb." Is that you???
Dusty - rw- do you like those components. I kind of like the Read Alone books. They are good for guided reading.
susan/2nd/ny - flowergirl: just look at the activities that teachers did in Bunny Readers and you will see awesome
Micteach - Marcia.. anything that remotely looks like it is scripted concerns me
deb - frogster -- yup that is ME. She is coming to Michigan and sleeping at my mom's!!!
rw - I liked the Read Alone books much better. These are good for phonics, but the stories are pretty bad.
Sal/4/CA - Our school district wants to give $5 thou to 1st grade, $1 thou to kinder for books, meanwhile they cut off all aides and many libraries. go figure!
flowergirl - do u have the site?
Micteach - Lucky you Deb
Marcia/2-3/Ca - One thing lucky...at my school everyone does their OWN THING...and some use the books and others create their own materials..
aggie/1/ca - Micteach---and everyone else--- has anyone here had to fight off Success For All?
deb - frogster -- was Dottie in Kentucky?
Katharine/CA/1 - I"ve been using the OC materials and program, but not their writng program. And I kept doing 4-b word wall work. and 4-block guided reading
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Micteach, there's no script, just lots of great ideas to put your own spin on the language arts lesson plans
Dusty - I have been trying to level my classroom library books- I have been using the Fountas and Pinnell leveling system in the back of their book. Does anyone have any ideas or other places to look at for leveling books?
frogster - We saw her in Cleveland.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Our district spent a lot of money on SFA, but now I utilize the books for guided reading
deb - I am in Ohio right now :) presenting!
Micteach - Dusty.. do you have microsoft word?
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Dusty, try Matching Books to Readers.
aggie/1/ca - Lori--- what happens when the SFA police come, tho?
flowergirl - are there any dittos/worksheets used in 4 blocks?
Dusty - I just can't seem to get away from the small groups. I get to know my kids as readers better that way. But i am sure not to group them homogenous- they are very flexible.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Now the district spent more $ on 4 block and we have the 4 Block Mafia
frogster - deb--Where are you in Ohio?
rw - Dusty, will you use your leveled books during SSR?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - Dusty I have three or four leveling sites on my web page...there is lots out there...to help you
Lil - I have trouble meeting with all my students weekly in the independent reading time, any suggestions?
Micteach - I know in word you can type part of the selection and it will level it for you.
G2/TX - Texas has recently adopted new text books, we chose Scott Forseman. We also plan to keep Guided Reading. I hope we can abandon some of the scripted stuff like Shurley language and Saxxon Phonics.
deb - sylvania
Laura/OK - I sometimes make comprehension questions to go with guided reading, or "round up the rhymes" worksheets.
Katharine/CA/1 - viv -- 4-blocks is perfect for beginning reading. Check the lesson plans here, and Cheryl's articles
flowergirl - marcia..whats your webpage address?
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Yahoo Sylvania, it's very close to Toledo, where I'm working
REI/2nd - Flowergirl~we use a minimal amount of worksheets. Basically, if it doesn't meet the criteria Pat shared, we don't use it.
Dusty - Lori- is Match Books to readers a program or are you just telling me to do that? Marcia can you tell me how to get to your website?
frogster - Toledo area? My oldest goes to EMU. I'm saving my complimentary 4-Block guid for her!
Sal/4/CA - Acc. Reader has leveled books, but I don't always agree with their numbers
Cheryl - I had intended to be with y'all all tonight but had trouble logging on. Sorry I've missed most of the discussion!
Sal/4/CA - http://www.advlearn.com/ar/artitlesearch.htm
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - It is a resource for teachers, Dusty
Linda/2/CA - REI--we have to use some worksheets to prepare the kids for SAT 9 testing %$#@!#
rw - I'm ashamed to say that we still use Companion Reading at our school.
deb - frogster -- yes. it's three hours from me in MI and my spring break so this works :)
Micteach - Ahhh but we are so glad you are here now, Cheryl
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Dusty, authors are Fountas & Pinnell
Dusty - Sal-is acc. reader a book? Lori- is it avaiable at book stores?
Linda/2/CA - I really wish the different companies would agree on one leveling system
deb - we've been meandering around the guided reading vs. p and f guided reading
Katharine/CA/1 - Marcia probably does, flowergirl <G>
Cheryl - I'm still a little puzzled about everyone's concern over leveling.
Liz - I heard Cheryl Siegmon last week. She talked about how their "guided reading" is a different philosophy than fontas and pannel
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Yes, Dusty
rw - Cheryl, I'm using Houghton Mifflin. Should I use the anthology stories in our book and follow the sequence for Guided Reading?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - yes....here...go to literacy stop when you get there.. http://members.aol.com/MGoudie/index.html
Cheryl - That's true. THe philosophy is different.
Sal/4/CA - Accelerated Reader is a program, used to test comprehension and vocab. about fictionor non-fiction books. STAR Reading is the testing software for finding out what level the student reads at...
Micteach - Cheryl... talk to us about leveling.. I have wondered why so many find it necessary
deb - in four blocks the focus of guided reading is comprehension and thinking about your thinking
Lil - I have touble having children wanting to read stories over again in guided reading, any suggestions? I teach second grade.
Liz - has anyone been using the four block model with upper grades? How about middle school
Micteach - I usually just listen to my kids and help them make good choices on their own.
Cheryl - Micteach, I wonder the same thing. As long as we have a general idea about where our kids are reading then the minute difference in levels really isn't hugely significant.
Sal/4/CA - Micteach- 'cause the admin wants STATS, not learning necessarily
Micteach - They seem to be very good at it at this time of the year
Lisa/2/CA - I do some leveling -- but it is more for my kiddos to find books at their levels during SSR
Cheryl - Yes, we've had great success at the upper grades!
Dusty - Liz- I know the philosophies are different but Pat Cunningham has mentioned Founta and P in some of her books. Are Foountas and P. recommending homogenous rdg. groups?
susan/2nd/ny - Lil, let your second graders read stories written BY children and they will be interested...just go to class sites that have webfolios
deb - lil -- set a new purpose for the second reading of a story. The first day read Clifford to find ways that his size HELPS him. The second day read for ways his size hinders him.
Sal/4/CA - We have to do the DRA 3 x/yr, SD QUICK, etc. along with other book tests. ugh
Liz - cheryl...how do the blocks differ at the upper grades
dltb - in Fountas and Pinnell the focus is using strategies mainly so why can't we do both?
Marcia/2-3/Ca - yes,,Sal..we are doing Sat9 and I was just told to do DRA in a week or so.
G2/TX - I use Ar's level's too. Sometime I don't agree but they have many and are usually pretty close.
Cheryl - I've had lots of teachers asking me lately about what the comprehension skills and strategies are that we need to teach children. Is that a common dilemma?
Liz - dusty...I don't think so...per se...I haven't read as much on their philosophy as I have the 4 blocks....it just makes a lot of sense to me
Linda/2/CA - Cheryl--definitely
G2/TX - Yes
Sal/4/CA - and we also have lit. portolios graded by the district. whew
Cheryl - The PF focus on strategies is not the problem, and they do share some good ideas in working with small groups of kids. It's just that they want to do it with leveled books----a.k.a. ability grouping.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Yes Cheryl especially this time of year
Micteach - Yes cheryl..
deb - the strategies taught in p and f can be taught in the guess the covered word, coaching groups, and during conferences of ssr.
Lil - Thanks for ideas. Susan where do you fincd webfolios?
Micteach - nk I struggle most with that.
Liz - Cheryl...I know in MD that is a major deal....we are tied very closely to a major state assessment that is performance based and centers around the stance questions of reader response theory...
Katharine/CA/1 - Cheryl, I've heard districts that focus on test taking skills saw their comp & summery scores be low. Now they're worried about comp & understanding
flowergirl - is there a place to find topics for mini lessons. Sometimes i feel that i teach the same minilesson for reading over and over again.
susan/2nd/ny - My kids have webfolios and I have links...check out any of my sites
Liz - I do like the information in F and P's WORD MATTERS....
Lisa/2/CA - I just went to an F&P workshop -- and I have to say Cheryl, you and Pat and Dottie are so animated during the workshops -- I almost fell asleep at the F&P workshop
Dusty - dltb- from my reading I think Fountas and Pinnell is grouped more according to ability. Maybe I'm wrong.
Marcia/2-3/Ca - flowergirl..look in tnets archives..there are tons of mini lessons
Sal/4/CA - Katharine- amazing, huh? Our school is low, low, low, and barely hanging on.
Linda/2/CA - our main problem is finding the time to find the books to teach comp skills and strategies
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - And there's other good stuff in Matching Books by F&P such as grant writing
Marcia/2-3/Ca - where are you Sal?
Katharine/CA/1 - Our district hired some big deal guru to teach us only about how to ace the test. Much $$$
Cheryl - Lisa, it helps to really believe---heart and soul---in what you're sharing, I think. I LOVE 4-Blocks!! Hopefully, it shows!
Linda/2/CA - Sal--just how low are you? there were only 4 schools in the whole state that scored lower than us
Sal/4/CA - The SAT9 Scores "rule our world". I'd rather focus on enjoying books and learning strategies to become better readers.
deb - linda -- try the Strategies That Work book by Harvey. Published by Stenhouse
Liz - linda/2/CA that seems to be a problem in many areas...funding is an issue
Dusty - Cheryl- do you recommend leveling my classroom library books in different bins. Do the numbers affect the children's choices?
Lisa/2/CA - it does Cheryl!
Micteach - I am so frustrated with the standardized testing mentality
Cheryl - Don't you all agree that we're teaching many of the same comp. skills at first grade as at 12th grade? It's just more sophisticated by application, materials, etc.
Linda/2/CA - we have the books--just have to match them to the skill/strategy--and that takes time
Linda/2/CA - deb--just ordered On Solid Ground
Liz - micteach....come to MD! *LOL
Cheryl - Dusty, I would be sure that there's a variety of levels in each bin that goes to the tables. Are you sending them to the tables?
Micteach - I think so Cheryl..
G2/TX - Micteach...Texas too
Lisa/2/CA - Micteach -- you would have loved the video that we had to watch today about the SAT that my district created (I am just kidding!)
jazz - Cheryl-yes! I think it is amazing what 1st graders can do using 4blocks -
Liz - cheryl....yes, I agree....a few new things sprinkled in here and there, but complexity of text is a decisive factor
Micteach - Liz.. I believe it is awful everywhere.
deb - linda - post to the ring what you think of it when you get it so I know whether or not to get it
Linda/2/CA - deb--a friend told me it was great
Dusty - No Cheryl- the children go and choose their own books. They may pick from any bin but I always ask them to do the 5 finger test on the books they choose.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - I even use restaurant menus for book bins and they love it
Micteach - I fear that my professional book purchases will soon put me in the poor house.. I think I spend more on those than I earn.....
Liz - Cheryl.....how do the blocks differ for the upper grades...more focus on voc and structure of words in word block? What about the word walls?
Linda/2/CA - micteach--me too
Cheryl - Dusty, the 5 finger rule is a good one, although they're still going to occasionally choose too hard or too easy. It's really okay sometimes. I like easy books sometimes, too!
Sal/4/CA - I also put catalogs and airplane emergency guides in the bins.
Liz - micteach...I have too, luckily with some district funding!! It's funny though....as you read you get many mixed messages!
dltb - dusty, what is the 5 finger test?
Lil - I follow your approach too Dusty, but I do have some of my low readers selecting books that are too hard and that is a touchy area.
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - If I ever can afford a spring break vacation, I may even get a menu from DisneyWorld LOL
Dusty - Cheryl- when some teachers come to visit- what should I be sure to tell them. What books should I tell them to read. I want to give them as much help as possible in the short time that they will be with me.
Micteach - Liz.. but it makes you so much better and firmer in your beliefs .. I think
Cheryl - At upper grades, we do have different objectives for those kids. The model is not as black and white at upper as at lower. Much depends on your style, the kids' acheivement level and background.
Sal/4/CA - hey lori- just e-mailem, if you can't get out. I feel your pain.
Liz - micteach....yes...you pick and choose what you feel works....
Cheryl - Dusty, on 4-Blocks, I assume?
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Great idea, Sal
Micteach - Cheryl .. had a student teacher visit for an hour this morning .. I sent her out with reams of paper of things I have copied from the mail rings and web sites
Sal/4/CA - 10-Q Lori
Linda/2/CA - My problem with the professional and teacher resource books is that I purchase them and then everyone says "Oh that's great--can I make a copy?"
Lil - I' looking for a teacher in Cincinnati who uses the 4 blocks to observe... anyone know of someone?
Micteach - Everyone was laughing at me..
Dusty - dltb- my children read a page or two and if they don't know a word or can not figure it out after they have used all of their strategies then the put a finger up- five fingers and that book is too difficult for them at the time- but hopefully they will be
Dusty - Cheryl- yes 4 blocks.
Cheryl - Micteach, good! Reading and observing are good ways to get started.
deb - to clarify, in the upper grades you are not doing a half hour of each block. Instead you are mainly having a writing workshop and a reading workshop (ie) guided reading plus 15-20 minutes of phonics like it is suggested in the Classrooms That Work book?????????? Or a different schedule
Micteach - I have bought books for friends at other schools...or rather told them to keep mine and bought new ones for me.
Cheryl - I usually tells teachers to get The Teachers Guide and the month by month book for their grade.
REI/2nd - Cheryl~when can we expect the Teachers Guide for the Upper Grades? I keep crossing my fingers when my teachers ask and say "Soon, soon, I am sure it will be soon".
Liz - I've got several teachers setting up their rooms as "demos"...just starting out now, but things are going well
Lori/1&2Rdg/OH - Hope to teach those upper grades next year and Toledo district trains upper grade teachers, deb
Dusty - cheryl- I guess it has been asked tonite but I missed your answer- where do small flex guided reading groups fit into the 4 Blocks.
Linda/2/CA - it really irks me that some of our teachers say--see I have a
G2/TX - Where do we get the Teacher's guide?
Cheryl - I've unfortunately missed 2 deadlines (my publisher has been very understanding! Thank heavens!). It'll be out next school year.
deb - who is doing the training in upper grades? Is Cheryl in Toledo?
REI/2nd - I gave both of my Student Teachers this year the 4 blocks guide and the new lesson plan book.
Liz - G2/TX....amazon.com...carsondelosa.com...plenty of other places too
Sal/4/CA - cheryl- yeah yeah sure.sure. Can we help speed you up?
Linda/2/CA - See I have a Word Wall--I ask them "what are you doing with it?" They look at me like I am crazy--one teacher put up ALL the words BEFORE school started
Dusty - REI- what great gifts for your student teachers.
Cheryl - You can do small flexible groups during Guided Reading, but don't feel that you must. For some reason, teachers feel compelled to hear kids read everyday. Set up your suppport in other ways.
REI/2nd - Cheryl~Great! I can take that info. back to them. Will tell them I heard it straight from the source. LOL!!!!!!!
Micteach - Linda.. many do not understand doing the ww
Linda/2/CA - I know--I am trying to teach them--mostly they come in and observe
Cheryl - Love it when the Word Wall is all there at the beginning of school. Very little effect...
Lil - I'm looking for a teacher who uses the 4 blocks to observe. I'm in Cincinnati, Ohio. anyone know of anyone?
Lisa/2/CA - That's just as bad as the 1st grade teacher at my school who already has over 200 words on her word wall -- I ask her why she has so many -- she says the kids need all of them -- I can't find words and don't know how her kids do
Liz - micteach...i agree...BIG difference between having a ww and DOING one!
Micteach - Rei.. I love dropping names.. like Cheryl.. Dottie, Pat.. when I get an answer from the experts.
Cheryl - Deb, I don't know who's in Toledo. Not me!
JenFirst - can you explain "doing a word wall"
Linda/2/CA - My kids love WW--they are always curious as to what words will go up this week--they get to pick one from the list
deb - just wondering
Cheryl - Lisa, that's just it---they don't find them!!!
Dusty - Cheryl - thanks- I think that guided reading is the area that i am having the most difficulty with. I need to work on that one.
Sal/4/CA - "Word Study" as we're told to call it, is my students' fave. They love doin' the word wall- even for 4th.
Liz - Mic teach...I agree!! I love the way they are accessible!
Katharine/CA/1 - Doing the word wall made the difference on my kids' Open Court spelling test. Main difference, I think
REI/2nd - Dusty~My fall Student teacher has been in great demand as a sub, because of her 4 Blocks experience.
deb - cheryl - I will see you in Indianapolis for IRA
Cheryl - Jen, if you don't do something with it regularly, the kids won't really learn the words.
Cheryl - Deb, looking forward to it!
Liz - dusty...I think that is the hardest one!
Linda/2/CA - wish my subs had 4b experience
Lisa/2/CA - Cheryl -- some of my lowest 2nd graders are finding the words on the word wall -- and look up when reading because they know they are on the wall -- this is a big step for some of my lowest kiddos
JenFirst - cheryl, for example...?
Cheryl - Katharine, you still with Open Court?
Dusty - REI- my district is not into 4Blocks- just a few of us and we are learning from the books. when i started teaching 1st last year i knew i need something to organize me and this certainly has.
Linda/2/CA - mine too lisa
Micteach - Linda.. i know what you mean.. but you know those nasty workbooks are good for something.
G2/TX - We do an activity 4 days a week with the 5 new words and all the words one day
Micteach - Really helps my subs out.
Katharine/CA/1 - It's interesting how, when they don't know the work in a story, they can look at the WW and read that same word
Cheryl - Lisa, you're doing it right then!
Cheryl - Anybody here from Diamond Elem in CA? I'm headed there this week.
Lisa/2/CA - Cheryl -- I told you that I was taking on some of my ELL 1st graders into 2nd grade -- these kiddos are doing so well a second year == they are reading well above grade level this year
deb - how is that grandbaby? cheryl
Sal/4/CA - yeah, the 'transfer' is the real a-ha moment.
Liz - cheryl...I hope they give you better facilities than the George mason Univ. capmpus did! I was in the back row!
Micteach - Cheryl.. the really exciting part is that my kids are really getting to be good spellers.. of all words, and a lot without help from the wordwall.
Linda/2/CA - I thought it was really cute the other day--kids had written stories and gave them to each other to read--one of the lowest kids was crowing "Hey you didn't spell this work right--it's on the WW/"
Cheryl - Lisa, I think looping is great, especially with 4-Blocks! Keep me posted on how it goes. We need data!
Katharine/CA/1 - Where is Diamond, Cheryl?
Cheryl - Micteach, it's time we understood that it's teaching them HOW to spell, not WHAT to spell, that's really important. And it's working!!
Lil - Cheryl, any idea how we can find teachers in our area who use the 4 blocks?
Lisa/2/CA - Cheryl --- I have lots of great data on these 8 kiddos -- whatever you want Cheryl -- let me know
jazz - Lisa, how long have you been looping?
Micteach - Cheryl.... and that is what is so clear to me this year.
jazz - I will be looping with my first graders to second next year
Micteach - Last year it is like wow.. writing is teaching my low kids to read!!
Cheryl - Diamond is near LA. (I just heard that they've had a tragedy over the last 2 weeks. The principal who booked me just died of a heart attack. He sounded like a great guy.)
Dusty - Cheryl- Our district is using Rebecca Sitton spelling- Is this compatible with 4 Blocks- her words are high frequency writing words. When I begin teaching 2nd next year- would it be a good idea to test the children on some of the words from 1st grade and
Lisa/2/CA - Jazz -- this is the first year I have ever looped -- it has been great -- kept my lowest ELL kids to do a second year with 4Blocks -- all 8 of them are reading at or above grade level -- with 5 reading at 4th grade level and above in English
Micteach - It is like a new revelation..wow.. now I get it.
Cheryl - Micteach, isn't it wonderful how the writing is what does it for so many kids (research says about 60% of them will learn to read this way!).
Dusty - base the first words I use on my word wall from test results.
Sal/4/CA - Lisa- a BIG Pat on the back to ya!
Linda/2/CA - cheryl--that is so true
jazz - that sounds great! my first graders are doing so much - I am really looking forward to next year
Micteach - Yes.. Cheryl.. It still surprises me sometime
Cheryl - Dusty, what grade again?
Heav - Can anyone help me with a quick lesson plan for first graders?
REI/2nd - Dusty~We are using Sitton Spelling along with 4 Blocks. We are finding it works well. Had to have a "program" if not using a spelling book.
jazz - and I hadn't heard anything from teachers who loop and use 4blocks
Lisa/2/CA - Sal -- thanks -- but these kiddos are the ones who are doing it! and by the way -- they are now teaching themselves to read in Spanish -- can you believe that?
Dusty - Second next year. How should I begin my word wall?
Micteach - I have an LD student who spends much of her time in resource.. She spent quite a bit of time with us last week.. and wow.. you should have seen her writing.. her LD teacher was amazed
deb - heav -- there are several posted on the four blocks site under cheryls articles
Katharine/CA/1 - Like what, Heav?
Heav - It has to do with a math integrated with literature unit on telling time...
Micteach - She kept using that wall and using that wall.
deb - dusty - BUY the month by month phonics for second grade ----- you'll LOVE it
Katharine/CA/1 - Dusty, you should buy "Teachers guide to the 4-Blocks"
Sal/4/CA - hey,a little motivation goes a LOOOONG Way. My kids have come up quite a bit since Sept, 2 -3 yrs. progress isn't enough to get us up to grade level.
Dusty - REI- I have liked Sitton spelling- but i don't think the expectations are quite high enough for the number of words that they are expected to learn to spell.
Heav - I'm king of lost for ideas
viv - how do i get started with teaching reading to my K?
deb - the grouchy ladybug is a good telling time lit book
Heav - Deb, that is what I heard...are there any fun activities to do with it
Dusty - deb- I have the month by month phonics and i love it. I use it every month in first grade this year. Great ideas.
viv - hi again katharine---is this the meeting room about literacy?
Cheryl - Heav, need ideas for what area? This group can help you.
kay - Dusty, I agree, the rebecca sitton words are too few. 30 in first grade?? Not enough!
Katharine/CA/1 - Is that what we're chatting about? hee hee
deb - the second grade book will really help with the second grade questions for next year
Heav - Yeah Cheryl I'm looking for some great ideas to relate to first graders to do with a math/literature integrated unit on telling time along with some fun activities to incorporate
Cheryl - Viv, have you had any Building Blocks training? Do you have the Month by Month Reading and Writing in K book?
deb - viv -- buy the building blocks book for kindergarten to get you started on lit in k
JenFirst - Heav, I used The Grouchy Ladybug, , and we made a ladybug witha clock under her wings
Dusty - kay- I will be teaching 2nd next year. I wonder if I should test my kids next year and of those 30 words that they do not know- should I put those up on the Word wall?
viv - cheryl--i don't have anything! i'm a new K teacher
deb - heav - post to the primary chat board -- you'll get TONS of ideas
Cheryl - For K, the 5 day plan for structured lang. is a wonderful activity---high impact!
REI/2nd - Dusty~We use the core words from the program. Our priority words are our 5 Word Wall Words that week.
viv - Building blocks by pat cummingings
Katharine/CA/1 - viv, did you check out the mail ring?
Dusty - kay- I used a lot of the Dolch words on my word wall- I have about 100 words now.
deb - viv -- it is WORTH the $20
Heav - What do you mean with a ladybug with a clock underneath, I can't picture it?
Katharine/CA/1 - Ah, and your so low?? I thought everyone there was rich and tan. ha ha
Katharine/CA/1 - sorry -- that was supposed to be a pm
kay - I also have about 100 words, pulled from Month by Month and Rebecca Sitton (I just go into the second grade words)
Lil - I've read the 4 blocks book and use the 2nd grade 4 blocks phonics, but I am self-taught using these. I would really like to observe someone in Cincinnati, Ohio.... any help!
viv - not me, katharine---where do oyu teach at?
Cheryl - Pull words from kids' writing, too, for the WW.
Dusty - REI- but we only have 10 or 15 priority words in 1st grade. How many in 2nd?
Heav - Deb, sorry to bother you again but you could explain what it looked like
Cheryl - I've trained in OH but haven't visited classes yet.
viv - anyone ever shared a classroom with childcare! IT SUCKS!!!
JenFirst - Heav, hm, hard to explain, found it in a book, but they had to go home with this ladybug and write down three times and the activities they were doing at that time.
viv - what's the name of the building blocks book and by whom?
Micteach - Cheryl.. when do we stop adding words.. soon.. I think
Lisa/2/CA - Lil -- if you can't find a classroom to observe -- get the 4Blocks video -- you will see actual classrooms doing 4 Blocks -- I showed a clip of the WWW block to my kids because I teased them that they were too loud -- they thought it was cool to see another class doing what they did
Heav - JenFirst--thanks its just so hard to picture
Cheryl - Micteach, usually the rule is the day you pay taxes----which is really soon (unfortunately!!!!).
kay - does anyone know about the new Guided Reading book that's supposed to be coming out?
deb - april 15 tax day right? Although I am doing three more weeks so I will have 120 words up.
JenFirst - I am trying to think of the book that I found it in....
Micteach - That is what I was thinking.. and yes paying taxes is coming way too soon.
Dusty - Cheryl- any chance you will be in the harrisburg PA area in the near future- I want to get a request in before oor district runs out of money- that happens fast!!
Lil - Lisa,Where can I get the video?
deb - the new guided reading the 4 blocks way is set to be released early May -- hopefully for IRA
Cheryl - Dusty, I was in PA just last week! Near philly!
REI/2nd - Dusty~our Priority words are all of our Word Wall Words for the year, because the kids are expected to write them correctly in all written work. We have 100 Sitton words and 115-120 2nd grade word wall words (we use the 2nd grade list from the Teachers guide)
jazz - cool idea, lisa - my kids would love that -
Lisa/2/CA - Apples N Acorns has the video -- about $35
Micteach - Deb.. I am really hoping it will be there when I arrive.. am anxious to have it
Sal/4/CA - For upper grades, I'm stopping the ww mid April, but continuing with Nifty Fifty words. They really do help .
viv - katharine---how is the district in orange county
Dusty - Cheryl- I know- they couldn't send me- no money- and I am a bit far from Philly- wished i could have been there. I enjoy reading your articles so much.
Lisa/2/CA - Jazz -- my kids got a kick out of it -- especially since my class is the only one doing 4 Blocks -- so they don't see anyone else at the school doing what they are doing
Katharine/CA/1 - viv, I'm way up north. Past Sacramento
Cheryl - Yea, again, upper grades is a bit different. Actually fewer high frequency words because there are other goals to meet.
viv - Where can I get the Building Blocks book?
Dusty - Thanks REI!
Cheryl - Dusty, thanks for the kind words.
Micteach - Viv ...Apples and Acorns should have it.
REI/2nd - Our First grade teachers are using the 30 Sitton Words and all of the 1st grade WW words from the Teachers guide.
deb - hummmm i think i was kicked off
Cheryl - Lisa, I love the idea of sharing the video with your kids. I hadn't thought of that for the reason you just shared.
viv - How do I order this?
Lisa/2/CA - Viv -- the Building Blocks book is called Month by Month Reading and Writing for Kindergarten -- written by Pat Cunningham and Dottie Hall
Micteach - There is also a mail ring for Building Blocks.. through teachers.net.. I think
deb - of good I am back on
Lil - Cheryl, I read your articles and am doing my best to implement the 4 blocks method. Thanks for your help. Thanks Lisa fo video info.
viv - Micteach--what grade do you tesach?
viv - thanks lisa!
Micteach - Go to the link.. viv.. on teachers.net
jazz - I'm the only 1st grade doing all of it and we have 2 second grade and third grade classes doing it also. My kids think they are sooo smart because there doing it, too!
Dusty - REI- you said Teachers Guide- do you mean Sitton? Or from 4 blocks guide?
Micteach - Viv 2nd.. for last two years.. but before that a kinder for several years.
viv - micteach---how did you like K
Dusty - Katharine- All of us that have kids know what they can be like at times! LOL
viv - is 2nd a lot better? i'm thinking of changing schools or grade level.
Micteach - Loved it and never would have left if I had not gone through a building closing
Micteach - But now.. I am moving to 1st and am very excited about that
viv - how long have you been teaching?
Sal/4/CA - I want fewer than 32-35 students, so I'm willing to go back down . K-3 is maxed at 20 here.
viv - i'm a new teacher and i only have worked with K
Micteach - Love teaching reading..becasue I found 4-blocks
Dusty - viv- I teach 1st this year and will be going to 2nd next year- I like them both for different reaons- would love to loop with my class this year but that is not in the works.
Cheryl - My sister-in-law has just talked her principal into letting her give up Saxon at Kinder and piloting Building Blocks. She is soooo excited!!!1
deb - sal - that hardly seems equitable
deb - cheryl - very cool
Katharine/CA/1 - I moved from 2nd to 1st. It was a bigger change than I though it would be. Sure learned a lot tho
viv - i will definitely get this book that everyone is talking about! the building blocks of K
JenFirst - Dusty, me too...I would love to loop with my first grade but looping isn't starting until next year.
Lisa/2/CA - that's great Cheryl
viv - do you think it's too late to get it?
Micteach - Viv.. I have taught in a classroom for 8 years.. before that was a school nurse. and taught health stuff.. I am very old.. grandma of 3
Sal/4/CA - yeah, I know. The upper grades have gotten the shaft for 3 yrs. now. Had to give up things to even get 1 hr aide time a week.
viv - for this school year?
deb - viv - not too late to learn
viv - thanks for the encouragement deb! =)
Lisa/2/CA - my move up to 2nd grade was a lot harder than I thought it would be -- but I too have learned a great deal from my kiddos
Cheryl - I hate leaving y'all but I've got "miles to go before I sleep" (if you can identify with that!!). Happy trails to you all. See you here again, I hope, real soon! Keep it pure!!!!
Katharine/CA/1 - I don't think I'd be a very good K teacher. Takes a special talent
Micteach - Go for it Viv
deb - the teachers guide to kindergarten is supposed to be out in August
Katharine/CA/1 - by Cheryl -- good chat
Lisa/2/CA - night Cheryl!!
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