It's been a while since we updated, so there is a lot to tell. We finished up reading Flight a couple of weeks ago. We then discussed the components that make up narrative writing, and how to construct our own narratives. As well, the students completed the Scholastic Reading Index test and have been grouped into differentiated sections based on Lexile scores for more targeted reading instruction. As well, the groups began working together to write their own narratives. The assignment is: "Create the long-lost missing chapter of Zits, Time Travelling Mass-Murderer.
Each group worked to create a narrative that is sequential, singular in tone, developed around a central theme, and cohesive with the rest of the book. The kids have come up with some pretty great stories, which will be published on our website in the next week.
Speaking of publishing, you will not be able to see the students' writing. You can, however, hear them! The students are creating podcasts, editing the audio, and doing their best to practice creating real voices in their readings. It is most definitely a reading skill to look beyond decoding of words and into the development of worlds and characters in the mind's eye. To practice this, students read a poem out loud in class using silly voices drawn from a stack of randomized cards, and they also listened to the first chapter of the nationally famous podcast "Serial" as a model.
We'll be done with the unit no later than Monday. Then, onto Language Skills!
Each group worked to create a narrative that is sequential, singular in tone, developed around a central theme, and cohesive with the rest of the book. The kids have come up with some pretty great stories, which will be published on our website in the next week.
Speaking of publishing, you will not be able to see the students' writing. You can, however, hear them! The students are creating podcasts, editing the audio, and doing their best to practice creating real voices in their readings. It is most definitely a reading skill to look beyond decoding of words and into the development of worlds and characters in the mind's eye. To practice this, students read a poem out loud in class using silly voices drawn from a stack of randomized cards, and they also listened to the first chapter of the nationally famous podcast "Serial" as a model.
We'll be done with the unit no later than Monday. Then, onto Language Skills!