Since the last update, Ms. S and I worked on giving a writing snapshot to a class. This snapshot really helped us see what the students really need work on. Basically, our students need more time to write. Creating ideas was difficult for them. She allotted 30 minutes for this activity, but it took about 30 minutes for most students to come up with a memory to write about. As Ms. S modeled a snapshot the students were engaged and excited about pursuing this activity. This activity could be stretched into at least a week because for these students, they need constant modeling to boost their self-confidence. After a couple of days of modeling, students could buddy write while the teacher monitors and assists. Finally, students will be able to complete the assignment on their own. Finding time to write is a definite issue in my school. Writing is not tested until 5th grade so many teachers do not see it as their job to teach writing because it is not tested.
Currently I am working with Mrs. T to administer DIBELS Oral Reading Fluency for fluency and with Ms. S on a Cloze activity to measure vocabulary knowledge in Virginia Studies. These test should take about two weeks. Test will be given during tutoring times after school since giving up class time (right before Virginia's state tests) is not an option.
I am also working on what should happen next in instruction. I hope to update this by April 3. As I make more progress on this project, I am beginning to feel more confident in diagnosing Reading issues in the classroom and where to go from there. I feel this project is really going to help me make a major impact in my classroom when I take over Reading next year for fourth grade.
