Rhonda White - November - Blog #3

Routman, Chapter 4, Teach with a Sense of Urgency

Teaching with a sense of urgency means making every moment count and making sure students are moving forward. Allowing my students to choose the right book is the first step in helping students find a passion for reading.  The optimal learning model illustrates how teachers can move students from being dependent to independent learners.  The first phase is “demonstration” where the teacher models “how to do it”.  In “shared demonstration”, the teacher still demonstrates and leads but with student participation.  In “guided practice”, students practice thinking and apply what they have learned.  In “independent practice”, the students read to complete the task with little help from the teacher.  Working toward independence is the goal so that students can find joy in their growth!  I’ve noticed the enthusiasm of independent reading with my guided reading groups.  As a teacher, there is no other better reward to see readers make growth and that they too want to celebrate their accomplishments.  From this chapter, I also learned that whole group reading, although frowned upon, isn’t so bad.  It’s an opportunity for shared collaboration and making connections.  The most important thing I have learned is that students need a balanced reading instruction from their teacher.  I like to take a “common sense” approach and allow a variety of reading opportunities, but make every second count.  Teaching with a sense of urgency and job are critical in helping our students to become successful learners!