In this chapter Routman stresses the importance
of “making every moment in the classroom count” in an effort to provide
instruction that not only engages our students but also helps to move them ahead. Routman goes on to discuss evaluating what we
do in the classroom in an effort to provide many opportunities for our students
to engage in guided and independent reading and writing.
I enjoyed reading about Routman’s
optimal learning model: demonstration, shared demonstration, guided practice,
and independent practice. This general
model is something that I try to use not only with reading and writing but also
in other subjects as well. We need to
show our students precisely how to do it” before asking them to practice
independently. It is also a good
reminder of giving more time and explicit demonstration and shared
demonstration early in the beginning of the learning.
Routman’s interactive reading model
is a useful tool that engages all students in the classroom discussions. The interactive reading depends on the book
but the importance is that the children are making meaning, and they are
engaged. This model will help students
find achievement and continue to increase in their reading.
The book reminded me to set high expectations for all of my
students and model explicit instruction.
I look forward to seeing the growth my students will make this year and
I look forward to continuing to grow as a reading teacher and educator.
Patricia, you are right! The optimal learning model is a teaching structure that can be used in any subject! Modeling is such an important piece with teaching our students what we expect them to be able to do. I love that you are setting high expectations for all of your learners!
ReplyDeleteHi Patricia,
ReplyDeleteLike you, I found Routman's optimal reading model to be a wonderful scaffolding tool, similar to a gradual release of responsibility model that helps scaffold students from understanding and knowing to doing and applying. Thank you! Dawn
Hi Patricia,
ReplyDeleteLike you, I found Routman's optimal reading model to be a wonderful scaffolding tool, similar to a gradual release of responsibility model that helps scaffold students from understanding and knowing to doing and applying. Thank you! Dawn