Well, so far all students had an opportunity to check out a nonfiction history book when their social studies class visited the library. Many teachers have checked out a "Traveling Library" for their advisory classes.I gave away all of my extra magazines last week to interested teachers. We continue to have newspapers available daily for reading current events. Today, advisory teachers will get a handout on the SSR key points we developed as a staff along with 2 literacy bookmarks and a sticker. On the actual start date of march 2nd, I will bring some face paint. If you wish, please stop by the library on Monday March 2nd, and I will paint a little Dr. Seuss Hat on your hand or cheek :)
I have already started in my advisory since my new LTEL advisory class began. We take the first 15 minutes of the class for silent reading. I place an online timer on the overhead so they know exactly how much time they have. Before they start reading, I have a writing prompt on the agenda for them. We have had writing prompts such as: "Write a summary of what you have read today, and after your summary, write a one sentence prediction of what you think will happen next." It really seems to focus the students at the beginning of the class.
My advisory has been doing SSR every Wednesday for about 30 minutes this year. Students are reminded to bring their reading books every Monday. On the day of SSR I walk around and check off who has brought a book and who hasn't. For those students who did not bring a book, they lose points and borrow a magazine for reading.
I recently had an advisory switch. From the first day of the switch, I prepared my 7th grade boys for regular SSR in the classroom. I asked students to bring in an AR appropriate book and did conferencing to discuss AR scores and points. When all students had a library level-appropriate book we began SSR in the classroom. I call is "Drop Everything and Read" and have seen the students respond well to the program. Because they are 7th grade boys, they initially thought they were too cool for the activity, but after a few times and a debrief they discussed how it's a time to calm down and cool off. It's a time for just reading.. not homework or lessons or socializing.
My students started silent reading the first fifteen minutes of Advisory a few weeks ago. They now do it with very little complaint (there was much complaint when we first started, but it helped to tell them the whole school would soon be joining. I have a classroom library (thanks LA Clippers contest!) and AR is a large part of their Work Habits Grade and Academic Grade.
My advisory was reading the for the first 15 minutes of advisory...it worked well the first two weeks...now it's like pulling teeth. Hardly anyone reads anymore. I still read for the first 15 minutes; there are a handful of students that still read with me.
I have told them that this is part of their grade....those that are doing well in other classes are doing the reading with enthusiasm...those that aren't....you know the drill...
I required my advisory to read for 25 minutes at the beginning of Mondays and then write a 5 sentence summary. I will lower this amount and make it daily (except Tuesday). If students are talking during the silent reading, they will receive two warnings and the third warning will result in a U in work habits. I like Mr. Thomas' practice of having different prompts as opposed to writing a summary every day. We have weekly check-ins with their AR points and reading levels. I also plan on having students reflect on their AR status and improvements.
I like the idea of the 5 sentence summary. Its a great way to check in with the students reading analysis and hold the students accountable to utilize the 25 minutes for diving into the story.
My students at this time are participating on circle reading during SSR. We have Peace Over Violence coming to our class. Thus, we were lucky to have Ms. Duff find us 9 books to read as a class, that goes well with our program. When done students will go back to reading their choice of book during SSR.
I like the idea of an Advisory reading the same book or a few books with the same theme. Then everyone could discuss the book in a more relaxed setting (like without having to write an essay etc). Maybe books about teen topics
I've also been thinking about having the class just read one book, in order to make sure we can have a class discussion about the book. Really like this!
My advisory has been doing SSR since last year. They currently do Silent Reading Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday for about 15 minutes. They get 5 points for bringing a book and 5 points for sustaining the reading for those 15 minutes. If they do not have a book for 3 days, they receive a U. After they read they fill out their 2-3 sentences summary on a reading log, which I grade after 16 days.
My students are reading more, and taking more AR quizzes in class. Many have retaken their STAR test hoping to improve their reading level and be better prepared for high school. They read for 15 to 20 mins at the beginning of advisory, they also now have books through the traveling library, and this gives them a better chance to read and improve.
We already do ssr for 30 minutes on academic day. I would personally love to do this everyday. I plan on doing a bookshare with my students where they will each share one book that they love and would recommend and present it to the class.
I notified advisory last Friday to start bringing a book to advisory every day for SSR. Monday was the first day and about half remembered to bring their book. I tried it for 20 minutes at the start of advisory and was pleasantly surprised that they seemed to know the routine and went straight into it (am assuming they are familiar with this from other classes). Even students who did not bring a book were quiet, reading a dictionary. I have to prep more in terms of access to books for students who don't bring one. I also need to figure out if I want to do some writing prompts.
I love the idea of having a dictionary or something similar for students that do not have a book to read. I think the more dull, the better. That way they will have motivation to bring their own book.
My advisory girls and I read for 15-20 minutes. On Mondays, we spend more time reading on our own individual book. It was difficult or some of the girls to focus, but they are getting used to it and enjoying the time.
I've been encouraging my students to read much more, and have provided more opportunities to check out/ return books to the library, as well as take AR quizzes. I've already selected a book for myself to read, and will continue to encourage my students to have a book with them at all times.
Wednesday's during Academic day, we start with 15 minutes of Sustained Silent Reading. The students have books they checked out for AR and also books they have a personal interest in. After we finish reading, students can take their AR exams or continue reading more. The boys have enjoyed how the SSR time flows into academic day and it sets tone in the room into work mode.
I have promoted reading and specifically SSR through my one on one conversations with LTELs when they completed the SRI. I spoke with each student as he/she shared with me their lexile level (which is the new CST component for reclassification for our English Learners). We talked about how much (or how little) they are currently reading and we discussed ways that reading will improve that lexile level.
On March 2nd, I would like to read with Mr. Thomas' or Mr. Mitchell's LTEL advisories so that our LTELs see that we are a team.
I started SSR two weeks ago at the beginning of every advisory meeting. I have informed my students they are required to bring something to read. I will tell them that it can by anything they like, not necessarily a book (after looking at the guidelines today). My students get points into their advisory grade and get a consequence if they do not bring a reading material. I also read with them, sometimes I read a quote I liked that day; so then later I can have a student share their favorite quote. Overall I have enjoyed it a lot, I like the time we ALL get to read.
Like Ms. Terada, I have notified my advisory students that we will be beginning SSR as a school wide activity. I think it helps motivate students to know that the entire school is on board. I will have extra books and magazines in my classroom for students who forget their book. I plan on reading To Kill a Mockingbird as it has been a while since I have read it and some of my students have mentioned that they have read it and really enjoyed it. I hope to have incentives for students who remember to bring books and participate.
I recently instituted SSR during my advisory class as a requirement on Wednesdays (which is my academic day). The students already understand that they are to bring their own library (AR caliber) book for immediate reading upon the start of advisory. The penalty for not bringing a book is gaining one strike towards an impending "U". Those that do not have a book to read are able to use one of the book from the traveling library.
Needless to say, the students are extremely compliant, with many completely absorbed in their respective books. I've even been able to make some significant headway on a "history of science" book that I've been wanted to delve into, but have not found the time to do so. As a result, I might consider extending the time period in which SSR takes place, just so I can read more of my book - and the students can finish theirs as well, I suppose. :)
Though I do not have an advisory, I would like to support RAA Day by coming to an advisory or two and taking a few minutes to read aloud a story. Since that coincides with Dr. Suess's b-day, I think it would be fitting to read a bit of one of his books that can be connected to our students. Two that come to mind are The Lorax (environmental consciousness) or The Places You'll Go (college and career readiness).
I have been reading with my advisory class every thursday. I explained to them my expectations and told them that I also want to be involved in reading. Therefore, I have told them I should not be "babysitting" them. They need to read so that I can also read with them. They seemed to react positively to my explanation of WHY i need them all to be reading. Like they heard: , "Ms. Vega wants us to be quiet and read our books so that she can also join us ;D" versus having them think "Ms. Vega wants the class to be quiet, she's so strict!"
I have also been making a big deal about their reading LEVELs . We have discussed that a 3.0 reading level is "reading at a 3rd grade level", Now, I told them that if they are low..they need to work on that! they need to read and practice so that they can go to a 6 -7.0 book level.
This discussion is always very shocking to students...to know that in average our 8th graders are at a 6th grade reading level.
The biggest struggle that I have with implementing an SSR time with my advisory, is how to introduce the concept with 30+ students with disabilities. One of the ideas I had was to find a "fun" topic that I can read. My thoughts on this is that they would see that reading can be entertaining and not just a chore.
Yes, Larry! I completely agree with your idea of finding something fun. The point of SSR, particularly for our struggling and/or disengaged readers, is to find the fun in reading. Reading should not be or become a chore. Something I have tried in the past is to read to my students about topics that I know they would be interested in, or getting a class set of something that I know they would be able read and enjoy. I think your students might enjoy The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, or you might also go the route of a book like Always Running (which I know Ms. Williams teaches some of her classes so they may have already read that book) or Hip Hop High School. There are a plethora of books written with themes that resonate with our students. I'd be happy to talk books with you as would Ms. Duff, I'm sure. She's an incredible resource. :)
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWell, so far all students had an opportunity to check out a nonfiction history book when their social studies class visited the library. Many teachers have checked out a "Traveling Library" for their advisory classes.I gave away all of my extra magazines last week to interested teachers. We continue to have newspapers available daily for reading current events. Today, advisory teachers will get a handout on the SSR key points we developed as a staff along with 2 literacy bookmarks and a sticker. On the actual start date of march 2nd, I will bring some face paint. If you wish, please stop by the library on Monday March 2nd, and I will paint a little Dr. Seuss Hat on your hand or cheek :)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI have already started in my advisory since my new LTEL advisory class began. We take the first 15 minutes of the class for silent reading. I place an online timer on the overhead so they know exactly how much time they have. Before they start reading, I have a writing prompt on the agenda for them. We have had writing prompts such as: "Write a summary of what you have read today, and after your summary, write a one sentence prediction of what you think will happen next." It really seems to focus the students at the beginning of the class.
ReplyDeleteThat is a key element as you begin your practice....time. It is important to stay true to the time and not go over.
DeleteI really like your one sentence prediction of what will happen next! It's a creative way to engage students in their reading.
DeleteI agree, the one sentence prediction is an excellent idea! And quick. :) Is it okay if I join your LTEL advisory on March 2nd to participant in SSR?
DeleteMy advisory has been doing SSR every Wednesday for about 30 minutes this year. Students are reminded to bring their reading books every Monday. On the day of SSR I walk around and check off who has brought a book and who hasn't. For those students who did not bring a book, they lose points and borrow a magazine for reading.
ReplyDeleteThat's great that SSR is so structured by you!
DeleteI recently had an advisory switch. From the first day of the switch, I prepared my 7th grade boys for regular SSR in the classroom. I asked students to bring in an AR appropriate book and did conferencing to discuss AR scores and points. When all students had a library level-appropriate book we began SSR in the classroom. I call is "Drop Everything and Read" and have seen the students respond well to the program. Because they are 7th grade boys, they initially thought they were too cool for the activity, but after a few times and a debrief they discussed how it's a time to calm down and cool off. It's a time for just reading.. not homework or lessons or socializing.
ReplyDeleteOfficial DEAR is on April 12, 2015 :)
DeleteMy students started silent reading the first fifteen minutes of Advisory a few weeks ago. They now do it with very little complaint (there was much complaint when we first started, but it helped to tell them the whole school would soon be joining. I have a classroom library (thanks LA Clippers contest!) and AR is a large part of their Work Habits Grade and Academic Grade.
ReplyDeleteAwesome that you took that contest opportunity and made it something real!
DeleteMy advisory was reading the for the first 15 minutes of advisory...it worked well the first two weeks...now it's like pulling teeth. Hardly anyone reads anymore. I still read for the first 15 minutes; there are a handful of students that still read with me.
ReplyDeleteI have told them that this is part of their grade....those that are doing well in other classes are doing the reading with enthusiasm...those that aren't....you know the drill...
That's tough. What can we do with kids that refuse to get with the program? I can see this being difficult to implement with 8th grade boys
DeleteI required my advisory to read for 25 minutes at the beginning of Mondays and then write a 5 sentence summary. I will lower this amount and make it daily (except Tuesday). If students are talking during the silent reading, they will receive two warnings and the third warning will result in a U in work habits. I like Mr. Thomas' practice of having different prompts as opposed to writing a summary every day. We have weekly check-ins with their AR points and reading levels. I also plan on having students reflect on their AR status and improvements.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of the 5 sentence summary. Its a great way to check in with the students reading analysis and hold the students accountable to utilize the 25 minutes for diving into the story.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMy students at this time are participating on circle reading during SSR. We have Peace Over Violence coming to our class. Thus, we were lucky to have Ms. Duff find us 9 books to read as a class, that goes well with our program. When done students will go back to reading their choice of book during SSR.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad the kids are enjoying "Speak"!!!
DeleteI like the idea of an Advisory reading the same book or a few books with the same theme. Then everyone could discuss the book in a more relaxed setting (like without having to write an essay etc). Maybe books about teen topics
DeleteI've also been thinking about having the class just read one book, in order to make sure we can have a class discussion about the book. Really like this!
DeleteMy advisory has been doing SSR since last year. They currently do Silent Reading Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday for about 15 minutes. They get 5 points for bringing a book and 5 points for sustaining the reading for those 15 minutes. If they do not have a book for 3 days, they receive a U. After they read they fill out their 2-3 sentences summary on a reading log, which I grade after 16 days.
ReplyDeleteI like this accountablity, will try it out.
DeleteMy students are reading more, and taking more AR quizzes in class. Many have retaken their STAR test hoping to improve their reading level and be better prepared for high school. They read for 15 to 20 mins at the beginning of advisory, they also now have books through the traveling library, and this gives them a better chance to read and improve.
ReplyDeleteYour kids are on a roll!
DeleteWe already do ssr for 30 minutes on academic day. I would personally love to do this everyday. I plan on doing a bookshare with my students where they will each share one book that they love and would recommend and present it to the class.
ReplyDeleteI notified advisory last Friday to start bringing a book to advisory every day for SSR. Monday was the first day and about half remembered to bring their book. I tried it for 20 minutes at the start of advisory and was pleasantly surprised that they seemed to know the routine and went straight into it (am assuming they are familiar with this from other classes). Even students who did not bring a book were quiet, reading a dictionary. I have to prep more in terms of access to books for students who don't bring one. I also need to figure out if I want to do some writing prompts.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of having a dictionary or something similar for students that do not have a book to read. I think the more dull, the better. That way they will have motivation to bring their own book.
DeleteI need a variety of AR books.
ReplyDeleteMy advisory girls and I read for 15-20 minutes. On Mondays, we spend more time reading on our own individual book. It was difficult or some of the girls to focus, but they are getting used to it and enjoying the time.
ReplyDeleteI've been encouraging my students to read much more, and have provided more opportunities to check out/ return books to the library, as well as take AR quizzes. I've already selected a book for myself to read, and will continue to encourage my students to have a book with them at all times.
ReplyDeleteWednesday's during Academic day, we start with 15 minutes of Sustained Silent Reading. The students have books they checked out for AR and also books they have a personal interest in. After we finish reading, students can take their AR exams or continue reading more. The boys have enjoyed how the SSR time flows into academic day and it sets tone in the room into work mode.
ReplyDeleteI have promoted reading and specifically SSR through my one on one conversations with LTELs when they completed the SRI. I spoke with each student as he/she shared with me their lexile level (which is the new CST component for reclassification for our English Learners). We talked about how much (or how little) they are currently reading and we discussed ways that reading will improve that lexile level.
ReplyDeleteOn March 2nd, I would like to read with Mr. Thomas' or Mr. Mitchell's LTEL advisories so that our LTELs see that we are a team.
I started SSR two weeks ago at the beginning of every advisory meeting. I have informed my students they are required to bring something to read. I will tell them that it can by anything they like, not necessarily a book (after looking at the guidelines today). My students get points into their advisory grade and get a consequence if they do not bring a reading material. I also read with them, sometimes I read a quote I liked that day; so then later I can have a student share their favorite quote. Overall I have enjoyed it a lot, I like the time we ALL get to read.
ReplyDeleteLike Ms. Terada, I have notified my advisory students that we will be beginning SSR as a school wide activity. I think it helps motivate students to know that the entire school is on board. I will have extra books and magazines in my classroom for students who forget their book. I plan on reading To Kill a Mockingbird as it has been a while since I have read it and some of my students have mentioned that they have read it and really enjoyed it. I hope to have incentives for students who remember to bring books and participate.
ReplyDeleteI recently instituted SSR during my advisory class as a requirement on Wednesdays (which is my academic day). The students already understand that they are to bring their own library (AR caliber) book for immediate reading upon the start of advisory. The penalty for not bringing a book is gaining one strike towards an impending "U". Those that do not have a book to read are able to use one of the book from the traveling library.
ReplyDeleteNeedless to say, the students are extremely compliant, with many completely absorbed in their respective books. I've even been able to make some significant headway on a "history of science" book that I've been wanted to delve into, but have not found the time to do so. As a result, I might consider extending the time period in which SSR takes place, just so I can read more of my book - and the students can finish theirs as well, I suppose. :)
Though I do not have an advisory, I would like to support RAA Day by coming to an advisory or two and taking a few minutes to read aloud a story. Since that coincides with Dr. Suess's b-day, I think it would be fitting to read a bit of one of his books that can be connected to our students. Two that come to mind are The Lorax (environmental consciousness) or The Places You'll Go (college and career readiness).
ReplyDeleteI LOVE both books mentioned here! LOVE them. I like that you are electing to read a book to the class.
DeleteI have been reading with my advisory class every thursday. I explained to them my expectations and told them that I also want to be involved in reading. Therefore, I have told them I should not be "babysitting" them. They need to read so that I can also read with them. They seemed to react positively to my explanation of WHY i need them all to be reading. Like they heard: , "Ms. Vega wants us to be quiet and read our books so that she can also join us ;D"
ReplyDeleteversus having them think "Ms. Vega wants the class to be quiet, she's so strict!"
I have also been making a big deal about their reading LEVELs . We have discussed that a 3.0 reading level is "reading at a 3rd grade level", Now, I told them that if they are low..they need to work on that! they need to read and practice so that they can go to a 6 -7.0 book level.
This discussion is always very shocking to students...to know that in average our 8th graders are at a 6th grade reading level.
The biggest struggle that I have with implementing an SSR time with my advisory, is how to introduce the concept with 30+ students with disabilities. One of the ideas I had was to find a "fun" topic that I can read. My thoughts on this is that they would see that reading can be entertaining and not just a chore.
ReplyDeleteYes, Larry! I completely agree with your idea of finding something fun. The point of SSR, particularly for our struggling and/or disengaged readers, is to find the fun in reading. Reading should not be or become a chore. Something I have tried in the past is to read to my students about topics that I know they would be interested in, or getting a class set of something that I know they would be able read and enjoy. I think your students might enjoy The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, or you might also go the route of a book like Always Running (which I know Ms. Williams teaches some of her classes so they may have already read that book) or Hip Hop High School. There are a plethora of books written with themes that resonate with our students. I'd be happy to talk books with you as would Ms. Duff, I'm sure. She's an incredible resource. :)
Delete