Still Putting It All Together

ambedu:

in-backyards:

The school I student taught at encouraged teachers, especially those in the primary grades, to use the Daily 5 in their literacy blocks—so much so that the principal purchased a copy for each grade level with her own money. I didn’t get the chance to borrow it last spring, but I bought the book that first week of summer and… didn’t read it until this week.

In the book, the authors outline a detailed plan for teaching, modeling, and using five literacy activities (read to self, read to someone, listen to reading, word work, and work on writing) that allow students to exhibit independence and stamina while practicing reading and writing skills/strategies they’ve learned during instruction. It allows teachers to work with students one-on-one or in small groups while the rest of the students can manage their own behavior and learning.

The Daily 5 is a really quick read, and I highly suggest it. While I think it’s poorly written (Can I say that? I really think that…), the plan for building literacy and independence (glorious, glorious independence) in students is amazing. Amazing. My mentor didn’t use the Daily 5, but I was able to observe some of our team members, and their classrooms functioned perfectly. Perfectly.

Just added to my Amazon wishlist!

We use this at our school, although not in Prek.  I used it for the 5 weeks I taught 2nd at the beginning of the year.  I think it works well when the whole school uses it because the kids get used to the phrases, how it works, etc.  However, I do know that a lot of teachers do have problems with kids staying on task during their guided reading groups.  The Cafe Book, by the same authors, is really helpful if you use the Daily 5.  I wish they were merged because I don’t think the Daily 5 works as well if you aren’t familiar with the Cafe strategies and how they can be implemented with The Daily 5.

kbkonnected:

LiveBinder Update: Daily 5  (Google doc.)

#elemchat #spedchat #daily5

Lots of helpful suggestions on how to set up the Daily 5 in your classroom. Shares what you need as well as suggestions for acquiring them. Many creative ideas.

Added to Readers/Writers Workshops, Centers, and Resources This also includes more resources for the Daily 5.

kbkonnected:

Word Magnets…make your own. Great center idea!

#elemchat #spedchat #1stchat

There are two free printable sheets featuring Dolch words available from the Activity Mom.

Print on magnetic paper or print on card stock and rubber cement them to a magnetic sheet (available at craft stores such as Michaels, Hobby Lobby etc.). Then cut them out with scissors. Use cookie sheets to stick them too.