Assignment 1:

How might small-group literature discussion groups fit into an overall literacy program, designed to help students experience the pleasures of becoming effective readers of literature?

Students can gain a better understanding of their reading when they hear the comments and experiences of their peers. Students may feel that their reading is more purposeful when they focus on what they will be able to contribute to their group, while they read. Students can bring meaning to their reading by discussing how they can apply the story to their own life.

How does informal assessment such as that demonstrated by Mr. Thompson help a teacher design effective lessons?

Students usually want to participate in group discussions and the teacher can get a feeling for how much students understand. The group retells the story and students answer questions about what comes next in the story.

What ideas from the video would you like to try in your own classroom?

It's important for students to discuss the story and not just answer comprehension questions. It's more enjoyable for students to have the opportunity to share their ideas about the story with each other

than to feel like they are always being tested. I also thought it was a great idea to tell the student what grade they will be receiving for that day's work and why.

Assignment 2:

What are some ways this teacher helps students cope with the complexities of a new literary text?

Students were expected to write questions and comments on post-it notes. After they read further in the story, students went back and reread their post its to see if their questions were answered.

As viewers, did you think the use of students to present mini-lessons to the class was an effective strategy? Why or why not?

I thought it was great because many students like to get up in front of the classroom to have a chance to “be the teacher”. By giving them this opportunity, students will think through a strategy they used that was helpful for them to overcome a difficulty in their reading. It can also help to strengthen student leadership skills.

Mr. Hoonan talks about the importance of considering context when assessing student performance, mentioning the example of allowing a normally quiet student an extended opportunity to share his views during the discussion. What examples of this can you share from your own classroom?

A student that usually is very quiet was assigned to be the greeter. Whenever a guest walks into the classroom, she had the job of saying – good morning. This helped her come out of her shell and participate in class discussions.

What ideas from the video would you like to try in your own classroom?

Students are working together to create a web of the story. It's helpful for students to see the story written out in a web. It's also easier to find a topic for discussion. Literature notebooks can be a great tool too.