Guided Reading Critique

It is always beneficial to learn strategies to motivate students to enjoy literacy. This is a good skill that teachers must have because once students are interested in a particular topic, they can perform to the best of their abilities. Reading comprehension and making connections with the text can be definitely guided by the teacher. Guided reading involves helping students to analyze stories, understand their components and making sense out of it, so it can be meaningful. In the case study of the book The Giver , students were able to understand the story in a deeper level. We as teachers need to make sure that our students are understanding, analyzing, and making connections as their love for literacy is encouraged.

Guided Reading Lesson Videos

I liked the way teachers conducted the lessons with students. They emphasized predictions by allowing students to predict what they thought the books were going to be about, and also by allowing students to make a connection between the text and their personal experiences. Choices were also important in the classroom as a way to engage them in reading the books they really enjoy, and learning whether the book is just right for their reading level. I liked the technique the second teacher gave the children by reading any page in the book and count how many mistakes they made, that was a good indicator of their reading level.

My Access Report Reaction

After reading information about all the things students are able to do with My Access I came to the conclusion that it is an excellent program to use. It provides them with opportunities to assess themselves, by using the scoring system, which provides instant feedback. It is an excellent tool that should be used in our schools because teachers can also rely on this system to assess student learning. Sometimes it is hard for us as teachers to grade all the paper work and submit it on time .
Our work would be easier if a system like this is implemented in our districts.
It is also important to mention that ESL students benefit greatly from the program because it encourages them to revise, and positively criticize their work . Online portfolios are also included in the program, where students, teachers, and administrators have unlimited access to assignments to monitor students progress. I would love to learn more about this program to use it in my classroom for specific assignments.

My Access! Writing Program Video

This program is great. It allows students to register online and take advantage of this excellent tool. As the principal stated in the video, this invites students to learn in many different ways and at the same time it integrates more writing in the curriculum. Students can use self-assessment techniques, and like some of them said, the program is highly motivating, since children love to use computers. This program is a new tool for teachers to teach writing in a different way and engage students in a journey they will enjoy.

iPod Article Article

My reaction to this article is positive. I think we should use technology in education because it is what students are being exposed to. In order to keep students interested and engage them in the lessons we teach, we should look for topics and things that they want to learn about and use. iPods are being used everywhere and I strongly feel that we as educators can give it a positive use. There are many skills that can be improved with the use of iPods such as reading and writing, being the last one mentioned by the author. Teachers need to prepare students for the era of technology and that means integrating new techniques and implementing new ways of teaching.
I think that teachers should look at specific activities children can work on while using their ipods, such as a group project. I also see it as a way for teachers to learn more about technology and the different activitities that can be done with technology.

Power Point Helper Video

This was a good video. I think the factors he went over are important in developing a good presentation. The one that I had a problem with was with the background. I understand what he mentioned about focusing on the message of the presentation, as opposed to focusing on the background, text, pictures etc. Great things to have in mind when developing a power point presentation!

My Pumpkin Story Lesson Plan

Interesting Lesson Plan for Halloween. I loved the format of the My Pumpkin Story lesson plan, because students will be able to accomplish different tasks and have fun while doing the activities. In my case, since I teach kindergarten that will also serve as a way for students to realize that steps take place in a sequence, and encourage them to illustrate and read their stories to the class. I also like the games the website has, and I will definitely play with my students that day. HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!