Tired of "fake" reading?

[Jetta Lovett]

Jetta Lovett logging on....I currently teach Language Arts at Dilworth Middle School in Sparks. My classroom looks more like an elementary class, with student work plastered over every wall and colorful posters on the ceilings. I have a painting of a life-size elephant, Tantor, on the wall, that I adopted from Echo Loder. My shelves are packed with books so that my students can choose a book freely during SSR and other times throughout the day. I try to keep supplies orderly and available for all of my students. I work hard to be consistent, fair, and compassionate to all of my students. I have a passion for reading and writing, but sometimes feel inadequate with my own writing. I'd love to grow as a writer and become more empowered to give my students the feedback they need and deserve.

My topic will be revamping SSR. For years I have been frustrated with students who are pretending to read and write during this class. Over the years I have tried many different things with my students. One of which I will share with you, since I am having much success with it. However, a model is needed, that gets students predicting, questioning, clarifying, and summarizing. I will be using a text from Steve Gardiner, called Building Student Literacy through Sustained Silent Reading.

[Gisela Daniel]

Jetta, I can’t wait to see your presentation. Fake reading and writing is a problem that all teachers have from kindergarten to college. Some days are better than others and some groups are better than others but we all see it more often that we will like. I’m looking forward to listen to your ideas and hopefully I will be able to adapt them to kindergarten.