Jeremy had asked about embedded readings and we went right to the source – Laurie Clarcq – who here answers Jeremy’s question:
Hello everyone!
I’m going to outline some information here…pick and choose what might help you:
First, here is a PP on how to use ER with your students. This might be a good place to start. The key is to do a different activity with every level of the reading!!
http://embeddedreading.com/2013/07/15/embedded-reading-in-action-powerpoint/
The next suggestion is the PP from NTPRS 13. Also posted here is a Reading Activities Chart which summarizes a SLEW of reading options for any reading selection.
http://embeddedreading.com/2013/06/21/ntprs-2013-lighting-up-literacy/
These come from an entire category on the site called Using Readings With Students which you can access on the right hand side of any page or by clicking here:
http://embeddedreading.com/category/using-readings-with-students/
There are 10 or more posts contain a reading and specific activities that teachers have done with those readings.
Here is another idea from the Tips for Success section:
http://embeddedreading.com/2013/04/26/these-are-the-guidelines/
Truthfully, Embedded Reading is like any other activity. There will be groups, and days, when it is a roaring success….and other times when you just don’t feel it. Like TPRS, sometimes we get so used to the success, we forget the leaps and bounds that our students are making. :o)
Some last thoughts….
1. Kids really love it when you create an embedded reading based on their input. Michele Whaley just wrote about this in her blog. They love to keep reading to see what you have added that was their idea! Trade stories with another teacher…your kids write one level, send it to the other class and they add to it and send it back. (or do the same with your own classes)
2. Really work, when you can, to keep a WHAMMY for the last reading. One crazy detail that changes the story, a surprise ending, extra silliness, whatever. They love that and are willing to wait for it…and read for it.
3. Don’t forget that Embedded Reading does not have to be a “whole class” activity. These readings are great for the superstars who LOVE to go above and beyond. Read two levels with the entire class and let the superstars read four.
They are also fantastic for kids who struggle. I often work with students in SH or after school and read the base reading and one level with them BEFORE we do it with the other students. One on one or in small groups you can really work with them on finding new details and visualizing the story. Then when we read with the class, they are super-confident and able to read the more challenging levels without frustration.
4. Use a little “psychology” with Embedded Readings. Express joy and disbelief that they read 4 versions of the story when you are pretty sure that the students in Georgia, Nevada, wherever (it doesn’t matter!!!!) could only comprehend three levels. Once in a while hand out the last level reluctantly with an “I don’t know….this isn’t supposed to be comprehensible for kids in Level 1 (2/3 whatever), but let’s give it a shot.” Let them “surprise” you with their ability to hit it out of the park.
I’m hoping that our Latin community chimes in…they have been the most active in the Embedded Reading world.
You have all posted great ideas above! Thank you so much for sharing what you do. PLEASE consider emailing me (lclarcq@yahoo.com) with readings or ideas or even “testimonials” about what you do with ER. The site has been up and running for 4 years now and even though I have been terrible lately with posts, we are still averaging 200 views per day from around the world. Teachers love reading and using what other teachers have found success with.
with love,
Laurie