From Russ:
Hey guys,
Just wanted to let you know how things were going over here in Silverton. I just did my first one word image with students in 4th period today (level 1 class). We have been in school since last Wednesday, but because of weird schedules and procedural stuff, they only really had some TPR and CWB for a couple days.
It went great! My kids described a giant red Chipotle burrito. We got to it having no face but big eyes. I think I went slowly enough because no one looked lost (teaching to eyes) and engagement was high. It took about 10 minutes and I only got it’s size color face and name.
The best part is this: I realized as I was writing the reading for it, that will use the reading options with, using some classic Blaine Ray style circling, I got about 130 word reading for them. I didn’t really embed a ton of new language just really tried to circle any time I added a new detail in the writing.
My thinking is that if I focus on really going deep with what they know now I can release the reigns as we go so that when we start stories I won’t need to circle pretty much at all.
Lastly I want to thank you guys for teaching me so much. All your work in the workshop and on the blog has really helps grow as a teacher.
Thanks again,
Russ