My first thoughts on this chapter were how she does not cover her feelings about independent reading and how it is important for our students. She knows that students need the time and that we are guarding our time for other activities. She asks us to think about our other activities and decide why we are doing them and if they are important to our students' learning. Can I shorten some routines? Can I cut out some activities that don't hold the same importance as having students reading independently during the school day.
She goes on to say that independent reading time is important because it is the way that each child becomes a proficient reader through the practice of reading. She also discusses how it allows them to be able to experience the world around them and "see" new places without having to leave the classroom.
You are so right! I think we all guard certain activities because we are so used to doing them year after year! Reflecting on our practices often can help us find those "hidden" minutes that can be used more wisely. I am sure it is hard to focus on the content you teach and still fell like you are providing time for your homeroom class to read. Are there ways you can encourage reading while still using those minutes to reinforce math? It always seems like we are in a balancing act with all we do!
ReplyDeleteHi Karilyn,
ReplyDeleteYou did a great job summarizing the key points and the strategies that Debbie Miller provides us in her first section. I, too appreciated her suggestion of making time to reflect on how we spend our time in our classrooms with our students each day, and working to ensure that our schedule really matches our priorities. Thank you! Sincerely, Dawn