So many take-aways

Take-aways from the  Saturday Reunion at Teachers College

• create a baggie of books - specifically series books -  that I have read and "marked" up.  I can use these to teach what readers need to do at each level.
• instead of a book talk, book talk the series.  Introduce characters, setting, what kinds of problems they have, what tricky things the reader can be on the look out for.  This allows the reader to do the hard work that is required of them.
• Everyday Diversity: I need more books in my library. I want to spend time this summer working through which books I will use to teach mini lessons and for small group instruction .
• Expand my own writing and conversation to invite a wider world into our discussion.
• Start books clubs during read aloud with partners.  Expand to read aloud communities.  Then branch out to partnerships reading same books.  Move into partnerships within series. There are many ways to facilitate and grow independence in book clubs.
• reimagine units of study to build in my social injustice work for our younger students.  Implicitly teach through carefully chosen read alouds.
• teacher collaboration: try learning walks and study groups
• teacher collaboration should be teacher-directed; administrator supported
• start with a short study group - meet every other week for 8 weeks
• set specific goals and expectations of members; determine how to maintain accountability

Thank you Two Writing Teachers for the opportunity to share this slice of my life.