tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55193388988783887622024-03-10T23:23:16.397-04:00Reflect & Refine: Building a Learning CommunityIt's not what we know, it's what we're willing to learn.Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.comBlogger446125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-91088678095949877722021-10-14T23:00:00.001-04:002021-10-15T08:50:23.818-04:00Three for Your Library: Trust & Step <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLO3Xhm-qUIBrriBjg5P_XcYNQPe8rxolRiNYC9dad9y5mZF4F4DKvU7PJcU9XWQhCr7lK6iwT6Sw3ftVgQB28On_D7EZbI9q7IoFA5ovB4pu6NDA0b9bK4mR-zXh-y69rmYBS9h-tWE/s2048/Literacy+Week+Poster-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLO3Xhm-qUIBrriBjg5P_XcYNQPe8rxolRiNYC9dad9y5mZF4F4DKvU7PJcU9XWQhCr7lK6iwT6Sw3ftVgQB28On_D7EZbI9q7IoFA5ovB4pu6NDA0b9bK4mR-zXh-y69rmYBS9h-tWE/s320/Literacy+Week+Poster-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>In the last few years, I've become familiar with this saying: trust and step. Anytime I've been up against a big problem, tried something new, or made a big change, I have found myself repeating the words trust and step. The phrase came up in a conversation with a friend and it seemed to stick for me. It reminds me there are tough situations and risks we take, but if we just take a step we are on our way. It's a one-step-at-a-time mantra that helps me to begin to find a way forward. <p></p><p>In our classrooms, learners come across challenges as well. There are times we have to solve problems, take risks, or make changes. This trio of picture books can remind us it's okay to just trust and step. The answers aren't always clear, but if we step forward we will find our way through. </p><p><br /></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/604696/the-starkeeper-by-faith-pray/"></a></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ow4XoYJO7qggrLB2hlwGN5rL1hCh1cNCvExL5sX2TMFqvjgv6UNNOD86pT-G4MtjVgQtrVGb4HtqX3GliOkOP0Gocg1aHj8R_nV3LvwAKhpDyLfCjO-kbf1hpekftnk2rFy4MWQudVI/s450/9781984892706.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="443" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ow4XoYJO7qggrLB2hlwGN5rL1hCh1cNCvExL5sX2TMFqvjgv6UNNOD86pT-G4MtjVgQtrVGb4HtqX3GliOkOP0Gocg1aHj8R_nV3LvwAKhpDyLfCjO-kbf1hpekftnk2rFy4MWQudVI/w163-h165/9781984892706.jpeg" width="163" /></a></b></div><b>The Starkeeper by Faith Pray</b><p></p><div>In this picture book, a child finds a fallen star. She works hard to take care of it, but she isn't sure what she needs to do. Through trial, error, and a bit of perseverance, she discovers exactly what the star needs to shine brightly. <br /><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>Each of us carry a little light within. How can students shine their light to make the learning community bright? This book also lends itself to conversations about not giving up when the solution doesn't come immediately. Sometimes if we take little steps, we can figure it out. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>This book lends itself to problem-solution conversations. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>The story begins with a world that is lonely and dark. It ends with a world that is different. The pages in between are how we got to the change. Young writers can use this framework to think through a story of their own. Additionally, the author often changes of the length of her sentences which slows the story down and speeds it up. This would be a good book to show this crafting technique to writers. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b><a href="https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/stella-brings-the-family-hc"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/stella-brings-the-family-hc"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OdsErubfBQvyNKTYeP6j75mobB8jnmUJMQz1bnPeCLw7rukCWdtPBne4_rM-7B-aoneHjznWjiN01ChGIBta2UtioWP5GPRCPX3_zYh2xDHybUEk7W1oA354ebZPwJo76Elz-Ac8XLA/s350/9781452111902_350_3_350x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="350" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OdsErubfBQvyNKTYeP6j75mobB8jnmUJMQz1bnPeCLw7rukCWdtPBne4_rM-7B-aoneHjznWjiN01ChGIBta2UtioWP5GPRCPX3_zYh2xDHybUEk7W1oA354ebZPwJo76Elz-Ac8XLA/w164-h163/9781452111902_350_3_350x.jpg" width="164" /></a></div>Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer and illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Stella finds herself unsure of how to a handle a tricky situation when her school hosts a Mother's Day visit. Stella doesn't have a mother to bring, but she has two dads she loves very much. Stella worries about the best solution. Finally, she decides to just trust and step. She makes a plan that she hopes will be the perfect solution. It turns out it is - and it also opens doors for others. <br /><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>Family can mean a lot of different things and this book is perfect for this conversation. As a teacher, I'm reminded of the things we do with good intentions but can impact our students. We can all think of times we felt like we didn't fit in, but our tendency can be to just walk away from those situations. Stella, however, finds a way to a solution. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>This picture book also lends itself to problem-solution conversations. There is also plenty to talk about in relation to Stella as a character: her complexity, her perseverance, the way her world is impacted by social constructs. There's plenty to discuss about this character through what she says and does. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>In it's simplest form, this mentor text is perfect for talking about problem-solution. It also has some great examples for letter writing with our youngest writers. However, what stood out to me the most was the authors use of transitions to move the reader through time. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/605958/areli-is-a-dreamer-by-areli-morales-illustrated-by-luisa-uribe/"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/605958/areli-is-a-dreamer-by-areli-morales-illustrated-by-luisa-uribe/"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZw1S81lxu6T-hlsVLCfC0RBpK9VfZ7In-hgJpL_NeIxBXELx3PUfGNg-5IT-h0B6UKUVFQ16gnSrBxqgm8HbKg3TvMYTCYKzSKXF_f1AI1wbW6o1PUMdZateonCoxB5huADFoKX3oKk/s450/9781984893994.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="450" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZw1S81lxu6T-hlsVLCfC0RBpK9VfZ7In-hgJpL_NeIxBXELx3PUfGNg-5IT-h0B6UKUVFQ16gnSrBxqgm8HbKg3TvMYTCYKzSKXF_f1AI1wbW6o1PUMdZateonCoxB5huADFoKX3oKk/w175-h160/9781984893994.jpeg" width="175" /></a></div>Areli is a Dreamer by Areli Morales and illustrated by Luisa Uribe. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Areli's mom and dad are in America trying to make a better life for their family. Areli's brother is soon able to join them as he was born in America. He is able to move between Mexico and America with greater ease because of his citizenship. Areli, on the other hand, was born in Mexico. She stays behind with her grandma while her family finds a way to get her to New York. When she finally gets the call to go, she's not sure how to move forward. Areli decides to trust and step into this new situation. <br /><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>This book illustrates how we have to be strong in hard times. Areli is strong and works to find her way through difficult situations that are not in her control. It also could open a conversation about the challenges of learning to live in a new country. For older readers, it might be a good early entry into conversations around immigration and DACA. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>Areli is a strong character. We learn a lot about her through conversations she has and situations she experiences. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>Writers can write about their experiences. This is a true story and the author's note certainly enhances the reader experience. It also talks about a big change that happens across a lot of time. It can be hard for younger writers to determine the most important details to give a big idea succinctly. This book could help with those conversations. </div></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-63378865297186319762021-10-07T13:55:00.002-04:002021-10-07T13:55:20.221-04:00Three for Your Library: Books to Spark Creativity<p></p><br /><div><blockquote style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;">"In a world of possibilities, today, what will you make?"</span> </blockquote><blockquote style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;">- Katey Howes</span></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFxUQOrLmr23Me9Tfk0wU09qT1LVzJihG5f0bgnVsvEbtwyJVvqf5ZkKWZcjGWTE6YDHUcdkatT2PuRmUh5gkKzau9h7u9oMe4NcmG4ktMTanpAQMolviZukz4acuS3zw5wHkAWxbd7w/s2048/Literacy+Week+Poster-3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFxUQOrLmr23Me9Tfk0wU09qT1LVzJihG5f0bgnVsvEbtwyJVvqf5ZkKWZcjGWTE6YDHUcdkatT2PuRmUh5gkKzau9h7u9oMe4NcmG4ktMTanpAQMolviZukz4acuS3zw5wHkAWxbd7w/s320/Literacy+Week+Poster-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Sometimes I need some help getting my creative juices flowing. Recently a friend suggested <i><a href="http://www.sarazarr.com/courageous-creativity">Courageous Creativity: Advice and Encouragement for the Creative Life</a></i> by Sara Zarr which was a perfect complement to the book I had just finished: <i><a href="https://www.workman.com/products/the-crossroads-of-should-and-must">The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion</a></i> by Elle Luna. <div><br /></div><div>Of course, this made me start to think about books that might spark some creativity in students. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are three picture books to inspire your young creatives:</div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/katey-howes/be-a-maker/"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/katey-howes/be-a-maker/"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjHD0Sb_TnOBjEh2rABLhVpJvpOApCgqbSDcH_493o1F-w-MFyIHMzlnp0gW3SLG0lHO3h6BFj6qpJHBbL_XSGJ4aAlOBz3GBBjRSxE8JUTZ2Y2uhV2Ygi0bv5uekmMHVfcfXjW0wn18/s355/9781512498028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjHD0Sb_TnOBjEh2rABLhVpJvpOApCgqbSDcH_493o1F-w-MFyIHMzlnp0gW3SLG0lHO3h6BFj6qpJHBbL_XSGJ4aAlOBz3GBBjRSxE8JUTZ2Y2uhV2Ygi0bv5uekmMHVfcfXjW0wn18/w169-h200/9781512498028.jpg" width="169" /></a></div><br /><b>Be a Maker </b><b>by Katey Howes and Illustrated by Elizabet Vukovic</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>This is one of my newer favorites for inspiring creativity. I mean how can you go wrong with a book that starts with the question: "In a world of possibilities, today, what will you make?" As you turn the pages possibilities abound. The book encourages imagination, play, creativity and collaboration. <br /><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>This picture book is perfect for opening up a conversation about risk-taking and the many ways what we learn across the day can be applied as we try to create and make. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>This book will allow for conversations around author's message.<br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>In an effort to introduce readers to the possibilities of all you can make, the author has carefully selected details to show possibilities big and small. This list-like structure can be an easy way for younger writers to begin to explore an idea. It also is a good one for discussing the way text and illustrations work together to build meaning. <br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/the-dreamer"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/the-dreamer"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mRq3ClyHJVCVkzvDJIjDc_T9kZRF1VoLQMFNhSiWMnJaIfvgv_orObbVd1ben5RwrpO_IMZ60IuBq5qAQ1_5oKa5ry-fjzOlPjQ6LLEm9sJurkba1yvdRxCpUnvWOEKCgqS12_WY7q0/s364/9781452156088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mRq3ClyHJVCVkzvDJIjDc_T9kZRF1VoLQMFNhSiWMnJaIfvgv_orObbVd1ben5RwrpO_IMZ60IuBq5qAQ1_5oKa5ry-fjzOlPjQ6LLEm9sJurkba1yvdRxCpUnvWOEKCgqS12_WY7q0/w165-h200/9781452156088.jpg" width="165" /></a></div><br /><b>The Dreamer</b><b> by Il Sung Na</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Talk about perseverance. In this story, a pig loves to sit and admire birds. One day he decides there has to be a way to join them so he gets busy on a plan. The work, however, isn't easy and never goes as planned. He runs into all kinds of challenges and works to find solutions. Will he ever fly with the birds? </div><div><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>This book lends itself to conversations about perseverance and trying hard things. Things don't always come easily and sometimes we have to find new solutions and reach out for help. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>For me, this book screams character study. How can a characters actions tell us what they are like? After reading this book, it might be interesting to find other books with characters that are similar to pig as well as those that are quite different. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>There are a few ways the author has crafted this story that would make for good conversation with writers. Its problem and solution structure is very apparent and would be good for those first conversations around this structure. It also has a circular beginning and ending. It might be interesting to compare this book to others that have used a repetitive first and last page. When does it seem to work best? </div><div><b><a href="https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/peter-h-reynolds/happy-dreamer/"><br /></a><a href="https://www.amyludwigvanderwater.com/with-these-hands"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amyludwigvanderwater.com/with-these-hands"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-mWxtuhUxae05D2s1MARwlNwlJHGBV8TfEU1C2-yfzC38oYe-FVQLciLmeDOXsg9MvCL3WPGJTe-ngumItsq7wIv7f1g7ZQsncreWaZgoiZGeAc5Azk-QpBYUxLhr7EYqg6yx5__E8M/s782/bdf277_d058d8fcea8041fe9013b397ecda9601%257Emv2_d_2700_3000_s_4_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="670" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-mWxtuhUxae05D2s1MARwlNwlJHGBV8TfEU1C2-yfzC38oYe-FVQLciLmeDOXsg9MvCL3WPGJTe-ngumItsq7wIv7f1g7ZQsncreWaZgoiZGeAc5Azk-QpBYUxLhr7EYqg6yx5__E8M/w171-h200/bdf277_d058d8fcea8041fe9013b397ecda9601%257Emv2_d_2700_3000_s_4_2.jpg" width="171" /></a></div><br />With My Hands by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater and illustrated by Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>What would a book list be without a little poetry? One of the great things about using this collection of poems is there are so many possibilities to use different poems at different times for different reasons. This poetry book would pair nicely with "Be a Maker" and offer more possibilities for students to find their inner maker. It acknowledges so many different ways we can make things. Best of all, all of the possibilities are things kids can try right away. </div><div><br /><i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br /><i>Community Conversations: </i>When it comes to creativity we are all so different. We have different strengths, different interests, and different challenges. This books would certainly open the door to beginning conversations for children to find what they love to create. <br /><i><br /></i><i>Anchor Text: </i>There are a variety of kinds of poetry collections. In this collection all of the poems are tied by a common idea. If you're digging into an author's message, it would be interesting to compare this with "Be a Maker." Each author uses a different genre to help readers to see new possibilities. What works well about each? <br /><i><br /></i><i>Mentor Text: </i>These poems, along with a conversation about the ways students like to create, might lend themselves to a bit of poetry writing. A closer look at the poems in this collection can open many new possibilities for crafting poetry. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>These are just some of the possibilities you'll find for brining out the creativity in the children in your classroom.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Just a side note: I've been playing around on Canva so I changed the "Three for Your Library" graphic (just an FYI). This is the old one:</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mBfDFQ1L-X54K3gJ0Rf-neUv6xNExtkUKng8L5_9OrUawaTYXI5kq3h5fx60C0clXZOhb2uEokvhyphenhyphenUHmswQe8Zwh3afxxQc86zUEpbwFYpt0U6Z_PQDLIBRaQFQFfGvtoYpRgFuB5oU/s672/Twenty+One.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mBfDFQ1L-X54K3gJ0Rf-neUv6xNExtkUKng8L5_9OrUawaTYXI5kq3h5fx60C0clXZOhb2uEokvhyphenhyphenUHmswQe8Zwh3afxxQc86zUEpbwFYpt0U6Z_PQDLIBRaQFQFfGvtoYpRgFuB5oU/w143-h200/Twenty+One.jpg" width="143" /></a></div><br /></div></div></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-83596739906144112282021-10-06T07:21:00.003-04:002021-10-06T07:26:34.510-04:00Getting Back to the Habit of Writing <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVhaBtzb09MykQnj5JGABDdMccp6vwugmoUN6Ih0iG2tXh26lFDG-4tHhKqUYgbuK-aPEot97uT4VMn_YxL6pT-mGpCuCzKhiMt9w53L28IYiT6NS8fH2ha-U64WZFVhz8apWCC65mCc/s1200/Untitled+design.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVhaBtzb09MykQnj5JGABDdMccp6vwugmoUN6Ih0iG2tXh26lFDG-4tHhKqUYgbuK-aPEot97uT4VMn_YxL6pT-mGpCuCzKhiMt9w53L28IYiT6NS8fH2ha-U64WZFVhz8apWCC65mCc/s320/Untitled+design.png" width="320" /></a></div>A little over a year ago I started j-alking (my word for jog-walking...and there's no way you could call this a run). I have a two mile course I jalk several times a week. I'll be honest, staying consistent isn't my thing. I've learned - the hard way - if I don't jalk regularly, however, there's a price to be paid. If I take a few weeks off from this routine, the first several jalks are not easy. For this reason, I've tried to push myself to be more consistent in this part of my routine. It's honestly easier to be consistent than to start over and over again.<p></p><p>Writing is much the same. This month is October so I've made the commitment to improve my writing game (<a href="http://merelydaybyday.blogspot.com/2021/10/blogtober.html">read about my Blogtober commitment here</a>). I want to get back to the regular writing habit I had in place some time ago.</p><p>However, just like running, getting back to writing isn't easy. I feel like I'm starting again. Finding topics takes more work than it used to take. Deciding the best way to craft pieces feels like an uphill climb. The sentences don't come easily. I'm also reminded when I stop by blogs to read the writing of others that time and practice matter as their writing shines from their commitment. </p><p>This challenge to get back to writing has me thinking about the learners in our classrooms. What's it like to come back in the fall and get back to writing? How hard is it to write if there isn't time carved out each day to stay in the habit? </p><p>Here are a few steps that are supporting my steps back into writing. As I have reflected on these days back, I can't help but think these steps might matter for the young writers in our classrooms too. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Getting Back to Writing </h3><p><b>Build a Community: </b>As soon as I planned to reset the habit of writing, I went back to my favorite writing communities. These communities not only help me with the commitment to write, but I also learn so much reading their writing. </p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i style="caret-color: rgb(43, 0, 254);">Build strong writing communities within our classroom. (Of course, it's a bonus to build some connections for writers beyond our classroom.) </i></span></span></p><p><b>Increase Time to Read: </b>When It's time to go back to writing, I find I really push to also pick up my reading. By increasing the amount of reading I am doing, I seem to find the writing easier. It seems when I am trying to write, I pay more attention to the moves the author makes as well as the words selected. Additionally, I find it helpful to read about writing and the process. </p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Share videos and snippets from authors who share their writing process. Amp up read aloud and time for independent reading. </i></span></span></p><div><b>Find Mentors: </b>Anytime I've taken a bit of a break from writing, the first weeks of getting back into the habit are hard. Really hard. I'd like to quit hard. I find searching for mentors for the type of writing I'm trying to do and collecting examples of craft moves I aspire to consider help me get back into the groove.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>Select read alouds which can serve as mentors. Find picture books, short snippets, articles and types of text that are within reach for young writers. Read them first and then look closely at the moves the authors have made.</i></span></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><b>Grab a Notebook: </b>Yep, I can't imagine jumping back in without getting back to my writer's notebook. This is the perfect place for play, mess, and terrible writing - and a lot of it is terrible right now. </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>Help young writers start a writing notebook. There's a lot less stress writing in a notebook than on a piece of paper headed to an audience or working toward publication. </i></span></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-82741267435165280762021-08-10T00:01:00.107-04:002021-08-10T08:00:44.725-04:00It's Here! The 12th Annual Picture Book 10 for 10 Celebration <p><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Please note: You're in the right place. Today's Picture Book 10 for 10 event will be linked here at Reflect and Refine. You will find directions to post with the community in the "Joining Today" section of this post.</i></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/s1600/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/w328-h246/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" width="328" /></a></div>It's here! It's here! And I'm so excited. It's our annual August picture book celebration. It's our <b>12th annual</b> picture book event! Can you believe it???<div><br /></div><div>Some of you have been with us from the beginning (and through multiple posting platforms). Thank you for joining us again. You know we love your lists!</div><div><br /></div><div>Some of you are new (or newer) to this event. Welcome. We're thrilled you are here. Buckle in for some fun - and hide your credit cards. <br /><p></p><p><a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2010/08/only-10-picture-books-what-to-do.html">When the event began in 2010</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">Mandy Robek</a> of <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a> and I started with this question: <i>"What are the must-have books for your classroom library?." </i></p><p>Thankfully, across the years, many other educators, librarians, parents, and picture book lovers have joined this event to share their favorites. I always find it to be the perfect way to get pumped for a new school year.</p><p>So...</p><p>Without further ado, let's get this party started. First I'll share the particulars for joining. You'll find my list at the end of this post. </p><p>Let the games begin! </p><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Joining Today? </span></b></div><ol><li><b>Choose Your 10 Favorites:</b> All you need to do is <u style="background-color: #fcff01;">choose ten picture books</u> you just can't live without for any reason. In the first days of this event, everyone shared their ten very favorite titles. This still works. You will notice, however, that many past participants choose some type of theme or thread to connect their selections (and many of them find ways to slip in extra titles - they're professional). We'll leave this up to you.</li><li><b>Write Your August 10th Post:</b> <u style="background-color: #fcff01;">Write a post</u> about the ten books you cannot live without. </li><li><b>No Blog? No Problem:</b> If you don't have a blog, this might be the perfect time to start one --- or there are a million digital ways to join. You could post from a Google page, create a S'more, make a Padlet, share in Twitter (and copy the Tweet link to the host blog), or any other creative idea you may be considering. We will also be tweeting from the #pb10for10 hashtag. </li><li><b>Link Your Selections: </b><u style="background-color: #fcff01;">Please share your links HERE</u> in the comments at the bottom of this celebration post. (Share them on Twitter too at #pb10for10.) This allows an easy to access archive to be maintained of everyone's selections. </li><li><b>Find Other Participants: </b>You will find the links to other 2021 collections in the comments of today's host blog. </li><li><b>Connect & Comment: </b>Take some time to read posts from other participants. We hope you will <u style="background-color: #fcff01;">comment on at least three</u>. Share the love! </li></ol><div><i>Warning: Picture Book 10 for 10 can be hard on your wallet. I'd pull out your library cards before you start to visit these wonderful posts below. </i></div></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Past Collections</b></span></div><div>Before I share my selections for 2021, I always enjoy reviewing my past event selections. Here they are:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="color: #333333; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2021: ....</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2020: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2020/08/ten-picture-books-youd-want-if-youre.html">10 Picture Books You'd Want If You Were Ordered Home </a>(let's hope that doesn't happen!)</span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2019: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2019/08/time-flies-10th-annual-picture-book-10.html">Your Stories Are Welcome Here</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2018: <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2018/08/todays-day-10-books-that-demonstrate.html">10 Books That Demonstrate We Are Better Together</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2017: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2017/08/august-picture-book-10-for-10-books-to.html" target="_blank">10 Books to Help Us Stretch</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2016: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2016/08/picture-book-lessons-for-teaching.html">10 Stories for My Son (The Student Teacher)</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2015: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2015/08/picture-book-10-for-10-into-night.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Books That Take You Into the Night</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2014: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2014/08/picture-book-10-for-10-being-brave.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Books About Being Brave</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2013: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2013/08/picture-book-10-for-10-picture-book.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Newer Authors/Illustrators I Love</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2012: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2012/08/3rd-annual-picture-book-event-pb10for10.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Mentor Texts for Young Writers</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2011: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2011/08/august-10-for-10-authors-i-just-cant.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Authors I Can't Live Without</a></span></li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2010: <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2010/08/final-list-august-10-for-10-picture.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration: none;">10 Must-Have Picture Books</a></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Here We Go: My 2021 #pb10for10 Collection </b></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14.850000381469727px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjahtMSmCcfDh5LZTu4AogmQhLavI3K_pvZiTouR3jWt80arpdUj7P4DrNlFslM6X56IAHzifSV_Jtn41TwNsMOwS8wCwgJchgoJg1d1l5o4B_26RdOWdQnZ5hlantBUSJE8axRm4TfWQ4/s1800/IMG_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1251" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjahtMSmCcfDh5LZTu4AogmQhLavI3K_pvZiTouR3jWt80arpdUj7P4DrNlFslM6X56IAHzifSV_Jtn41TwNsMOwS8wCwgJchgoJg1d1l5o4B_26RdOWdQnZ5hlantBUSJE8axRm4TfWQ4/w445-h640/IMG_0022.JPG" width="445" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-57563201411467442642021-07-10T12:00:00.001-04:002021-07-10T12:00:00.236-04:00It's Coming: The 12th Picture Book 10 for 10 August Celebration <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/s1600/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/s320/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Yesterday I got a text from my picture book partner in crime, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mandyrobek_edu/">Mandy Robek</a> (and <a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">Mandy on Twitter</a>): <i>"#pb10for10? Tomorrow is July 10th." </i>I must admit I was caught a bit off guard. How did it get to be July 9th already? It's a conversation we have every year at this time. Are we both in for another year of picture book fun?<p></p><p>Well, of course we are.</p><p>I mean, who can really resist? Since 2010 our community has been sharing picture books in August. Picture Book 10 for 10 <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2010/07/august-10-for-10-picture-book-event.html">began from a conversation about must-have picture books for our classroom</a> libraries. Mandy Robek, <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>, and I were going back and forth about our favorite books for our classroom communities when we decided it would be interesting to be able to meander through the libraries of other educators to see what books were on their shelves. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=tweets&vertical=default&q=%23pb10for10&src=typd">#pb10for10</a> for short. Since then, educators, librarians, parents, and book lovers in our PLN have been taking the time to create a list of their 10 favorite picture books to share with one another each year on August 10th. </p><p>This year, we'll be at it again so we hope you will join us for some picture book love! </p><div>So here we go. The countdown has begun. (Play drumroll in your head.)</div><div><br /></div><div>In one month, on Tuesday August 10th, we will host the 12th Annual August Picture Book 10 for 10 Event. There have been some amazing picture books shared across the years. How do you choose 10 you ask? The veterans will tell you it isn't easy. Let's just say I've seen some pretty innovative ways to slip in 10<i>ish</i> books across the years. This community is creative. Your list can be as simple as a list of 10 titles or a picture of 10 picture books you love - or as detailed and creative as you like. They can be old books. They can be new picture books. They can be books that make a great set or books that are currently your absolute favorite. Anything goes in this community. We just hope you'll join the conversation and share your picks. It's our favorite back to school book hype. </div><div><br />What to join the conversation? Start your collection, then plan to weed them down because you'll certainly have too many to share (that's agony), and be ready to share on August 10th. We hope to see you then! <br /><br /><b>The Basics</b><br />Want to join the conversation? <br /><div></div><ul><li><b>What: </b>10 picture books you can't live without.</li><li><b>Hashtag: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=tweets&vertical=default&q=%23pb10for10&src=typd">#pb10for10</a></li><li><b>Hosts: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">@mandyrobek</a> (<a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/CathyMere">@cathymere</a> (you're here)</li><li><b>Who: </b>Anyone interested --- educators, media specialists, librarians, parents, and book lovers so grab your friends and bring them to the party. </li><li><b>When: </b>Tuesday, August 10th</li><li><b>Where: </b>All posts for 2021 will be linked here at Reflect and Refine this year. (We had to old school so we could maintain the collections from this community.)</li></ul><br /><b>Here's how you can participate:</b><br /><ol><li><b>Grab a Badge</b> (just copy the URL address of the one above or take a screenshot)</li><li><b>Choose Your Favorites:</b> All you need to do is choose ten picture books you cannot live without for whatever reason. In the first days of this event, everyone shared their ten very favorite titles. This still works. You will notice, however, that many past participants choose some type of theme or thread to connect their selections. We'll leave this up to you.</li><li><b>Narrow Your List to Ten:</b> It isn't easy, is it? We've seen some crafty ways to get around that number. </li><li><b>Write Your August 10th Post:</b> Write a post about the ten books you cannot live without. Share the link to your collection here at Reflect and Refine on August 10th. </li><li><b>No Blog? No Problem:</b> If you don't have a blog, this might be the perfect time to start one --- or there are a million digital ways to join. You could post from a Google page, create a S'more, share in Twitter (and copy the Tweet link), or any other creative idea you may be considering. We will also be tweeting from the #pb10for10 hashtag. </li><li><b>Comment: </b>On August 10th (and maybe for a week --- there are a lot of posts) take some time to read posts from other participants. Please comment on at least three. </li></ol><div>Let the countdown begin!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you can join us!</div></div><div><br /></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-1568965564886946542021-04-11T07:44:00.005-04:002021-04-11T07:44:27.256-04:00National Poetry Month: Mentors for Young Poets<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://poets.org/national-poetry-month" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="220" src="https://api.poets.org/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-03/NPM_Generics_ForSocial2.png?itok=r6gZ0ijy" /></a></div><br />It's National Poetry Month! Those of you who know me know I'm a <i>"poetry all year"</i> kind of gal, but this extra emphasis on poetry in April always brings such joy. I love that National Poetry Month is celebrated in the spring. Even Mother Nature jumps into the action by creating a canvas of beauty for poets to capture with their pens. In the classroom, this celebration comes at a time our learning communities can use a little energy boost. <p></p><p>In walks poetry.</p><p>For National Poetry Month, many bloggers are writing, or sharing, a poem every day for the entire month. As a classroom teacher, I have always found a little fresh poetry to liven up the classroom and inspire my writers so I thought I'd share three blogs you might want to follow with your students.</p><p><a href="http://carolwscorner.blogspot.com/2021/04/april-national-poetry-month-remembering.html">Raising Rooney</a> at <a href="https://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com">Carol's Corner</a>: Poetry can tell a story and Carol Wilcox is one of the masters of this. This month, Carol is sharing stories of Rooney each day in April. Rooney is a puppy in training to become a service dog. He's been with Carol since we was a wee pup. In this series, Carol shares narrative free-verse to tell the stories of Rooney's journey. Students are sure to enjoy the antics of Rooney. Additionally, her poetry makes an excellent mentor text for young poets looking for ways to share a story through poetry. </p><p><a href="https://www.laurasalas.com/tag/equation-poems/">Equation Poems</a> with <a href="https://www.laurasalas.com">Laura Purdie Salas</a>: Have some math-minded learners in your community? They're sure to love the growing collection of Equation Poems written by Laura Purdie Salas. Each day in April, Laura will a share a new equation poem. These are quick and fun. Your students will enjoy each day's surprise. These poems make great mentors for careful thought in word choice. This daily challenge pairs nicely with Amy Krouse Rosenthal's book: <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/This-Plus-That-Little-Equations/dp/0061726559/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Amy+Krouse+Rosenthal+equation&qid=1618138329&sr=8-1">This Plus That</a></i>.</p><p><a href="https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/author/wonderingandwondering/">Avian Allusions</a> with Christine Wyman: Each day in April, Christine is sharing a poem about birds. Young writers will enjoy the images she shares alongside her daily poem. This series illustrates the way we can look at something of interest in many ways. There are many ways to write about the same thing. Young writers will also enjoy the way she digitally crafts image and poem for greater meaning. </p><p><br /></p><p><i>If you're looking for other links for National Poetry Month, click the blue image at the beginning of this post, follow <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23nationalpoetrymonth&src=typed_query">#NationalPoetryMonth</a> on Twitter, or stop by <a href="https://www.soulblossomliving.com/2021-national-poetry-month-kidlitosphere-roundup-plus-poetry-friday/">Soul Blossom Living</a> to find other monthly collections from members of the Poetry Friday community. This month, I'm writing a poem each day at <a href="http://merelydaybyday.blogspot.com/search/label/%23npm21">Merely Day by Day around JOY</a>. If you know of other events of interest - and there are many - feel free to share those in the comments below. Enjoy!</i></p>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-33186361353683263402020-08-10T08:17:00.002-04:002020-08-10T08:17:18.508-04:00Ten Picture Books You'd Want if You're Ordered Home #pb10for10<p><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Please note: today's Picture Book 10 for 10 event is hosted by Mandy Robek at <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/2020/08/happy-picture-book-10-for-10-day.html">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>. You will find directions to post with the community at the bottom of today's post. Make sure you stop by Mandy's blog to see all of the collections being shared by the #pb10for10 community. Also, follow the Twitter hashtag #pb10for10 across the day for a big dose of picture book love. If you're joining us for the first time, please grab your library card as this event can get expensive. Consider yourself warned. </i></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/s1600/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/w328-h246/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" width="328" /></a></div>Today's the day! It's our annual August picture book celebration. <p></p><p>When the event began in 2010, Mandy and I started with the question: "What are the must-have books for your classroom library?." </p><p>Here we are in 2020. In March, we were quickly sent home to teach from our screens during our state's stay-at-home orders to help stop the spread of COVID-19. I don't think any of us thought we'd be out for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year. This was a tough time, but I celebrated the fact that the first thing we all seemed to try to figure out was how to read aloud to our students in remote learning. Authors and publishers came quickly to our rescue as we tried to keep books at the center of our learning communities. </p><p>Of course, as schools closed, libraries were shuttered too. It wasn't long until we realized we were home without our classroom books - and home without an open community library. Talk about your book emergency!!! Thankfully I had a large collection of picture books at home - and a pretty good stack from the library that was staying at home with me until libraries began accepting books again. </p><p>As we get ready to begin 2020-2021 school year. Not one of us is sure what is coming, but I think we all know it's going to have its hard parts. It seems appropriate for this year's #pb10for10 celebration to share books I'd want if I was stuck at home again. </p><p><b>Ten Picture Books to Have in Your Bag if You're Ordered Home</b></p><p><b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Randi-Zuckerberg-ebook/dp/B00C0UHK06/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597060035&sr=1-6"></a></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfa4IZ6rGs5nPDvf4io2hX2bu3DVdMmrQRaptKjoGzSDleHXA4dUzLbX_UJZN9S_oU3CQVOBNVKlmjkK3psXBo_2yry5eD0IgmBN9gKTOrsNmMlmrnYCAjRV_ZSC19FCxzYgxBSp4EkU/s516/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.50.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="516" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfa4IZ6rGs5nPDvf4io2hX2bu3DVdMmrQRaptKjoGzSDleHXA4dUzLbX_UJZN9S_oU3CQVOBNVKlmjkK3psXBo_2yry5eD0IgmBN9gKTOrsNmMlmrnYCAjRV_ZSC19FCxzYgxBSp4EkU/w169-h168/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.50.09+AM.png" width="169" /></a></i></b></div><b><i>Dot by Randi Zuckerberg and illustrated by Joe Berger</i></b> (2013)<p></p><p>I was reminded of this book recently by Deb Frazier. It does seem the perfect book for a year that is likely to move back and forth from being together face-to-face and being together virtually. In this book, Dot likes her time connecting and working virtually, but sometimes she gets tired. Her mom reminds her that time to recharge outside can be equally important. This book is available in digital and print format. (<a href="https://www.harperacademic.com/pages/onlinepermission2020/"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Harper Collins COVID permissions</span></i></a>.)</p><p><br /></p><p><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ruby-Finds-Worry-Tom-Percival/dp/1547602376/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=ruby%27s+worry&qid=1597056682&s=books&sr=1-3"></a></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzw_q5NETvl7Qzx-8cGOxa_KgbBucfwSU8soIamt95Oy1QB_kCfolCCr1iwwPSJAyg5FjLJpBs6ej8o24yjtHl-Svx3gwK0LAQKBHUmSnFTP6NxvGPpSFBtcsoYrBHrjoQFuw4jmFtZc/s646/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+6.55.30+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="512" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzw_q5NETvl7Qzx-8cGOxa_KgbBucfwSU8soIamt95Oy1QB_kCfolCCr1iwwPSJAyg5FjLJpBs6ej8o24yjtHl-Svx3gwK0LAQKBHUmSnFTP6NxvGPpSFBtcsoYrBHrjoQFuw4jmFtZc/w166-h210/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+6.55.30+AM.png" width="166" /></a></b></div><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ruby-Finds-Worry-Tom-Percival/dp/1547602376/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=ruby%27s+worry&qid=1597056682&s=books&sr=1-3">Ruby Finds a Worry</a> by Tom Percival </b>(2019)<p></p><p>There certainly is plenty to worry about these days. Whether our learners are with us at school or we are teaching from a remote location, they may have a lot on their minds. In this story, Ruby has a worry that just won't go away. She spends so much time thinking about it that it just keeps growing. Will Ruby ever find a way through this worry? Readers will enjoy listening to this story that helps readers find their way through their worry. A must-have book for life in 2020. This book is available in digital and print editions. (<a href="https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/company/company-permissions/"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Bloomsbury COVID read aloud policy.</span></i></a>)</p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Write-Amy-Ludwig-Vanderwater/dp/168437362X/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=write+write+write&qid=1597054333&s=books&sr=1-3"></a></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8S2w8RjQ0rKTgmQkcx9Vcn6uTc_FjPnQMNerZYrB3EEjMVzPrhnTdJjEjFU3EOwziiWxHUXu3gUyIz_fJ5yNVz0r7lxqCnX4uMSPkziiOWyJb-elqjK3lFk6Ld3ZuHDbNytpOvuZ-_4/s676/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+6.12.27+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="522" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8S2w8RjQ0rKTgmQkcx9Vcn6uTc_FjPnQMNerZYrB3EEjMVzPrhnTdJjEjFU3EOwziiWxHUXu3gUyIz_fJ5yNVz0r7lxqCnX4uMSPkziiOWyJb-elqjK3lFk6Ld3ZuHDbNytpOvuZ-_4/w163-h210/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+6.12.27+AM.png" width="163" /></a></i></div><i style="font-weight: bold;">Write! Write! Write! by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater </i>(2020)<p></p><p>If you end up teaching from home, you have to have poetry! What better poetry book to have by your side than one that inspires some writing? When we're in the classroom, we work to connect home to school. Let's be honest, if our young writers are home, they're surrounded by those stories. This book is full of poems to inspire writers to put their pencils and markers to paper (or their fingers to their keyboard...whatever their preference). Whether you're live or remote, you'll want this book close by. Available in digital or print format. Additionally, Amy has a <a href="https://padlet.com/AmyLV/oiuzf3l8mdi2">collection of notebook mini-lessons</a> and an <a href="http://www.poemfarm.amylv.com/">ever-growing collection of digital poetry</a> sure to inspire your writers. Also don't miss <a href="https://www.amazon.com/My-Hands-Poems-Making-Things-ebook/dp/B07899RWRK/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=with+my+hands&qid=1597059444&s=digital-text&sr=1-1"><i>With My Hands: Poems About Making Things.</i></a> Imagine what our learners can make - and teach us to make - from home. </p><p><br /></p><p><b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/I-Remember-Poems-Pictures-Heritage/dp/1620143119/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1GIDUH8AVL8EB&dchild=1&keywords=i+remember+poems+and+pictures+of+heritage&qid=1597057797&s=digital-text&sprefix=i+remember+poems%2Cdigital-text%2C169&sr=1-2"></a></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNEHc766PnvvSq8fKulf15Ven3N58_AQs0yOklWXeZRRrf3GlQeRSha3NZXTWf0euikoVBDNLPK0ohFbwGHDOyJpPNoOToOLGG94ZhJCVcKIVMZQ59n6FMEaijY9IrxGNYx8BRqvEcgA/s692/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.10.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="492" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNEHc766PnvvSq8fKulf15Ven3N58_AQs0yOklWXeZRRrf3GlQeRSha3NZXTWf0euikoVBDNLPK0ohFbwGHDOyJpPNoOToOLGG94ZhJCVcKIVMZQ59n6FMEaijY9IrxGNYx8BRqvEcgA/w149-h210/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.10.10+AM.png" width="149" /></a></i></b></div><b><i>I Remember: Poems and Pictures of Heritage compiled by Lee Bennett Hopkins</i></b> (2019)<p></p><p>One poetry book probably isn't enough so let's add another to the essential bookstack. I don't think you can go wrong with <i>I Remember: Poems and Pictures of Heritage.</i> I happened to have this one checked out from the library when it closed for COVID. It was the perfect book to read again and again. Readers will enjoy the collection of poems and illustrations by artists and writers who share stories of their heritage, family and childhood. One of the gifts of our spring emergency learning was that we got to know and connect with our families in a much deeper way. This poetry collection is not only perfect for beginning any year, but also can help build our understanding of the different identities we all bring to our learning community. There are so many great poems in this collection to open rich conversation and create possibilities for writing. This book is only available in hardcover. (<i><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blog.leeandlow.com/2020/03/20/lee-low-guidelines-for-virtual-book-read-alouds-during-covid-19/">Lee and Low temporary read aloud guidelines during COVID</a></span></i>.) </p><p><br /></p><p><b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Woke-Young-Poets-Call-Justice-ebook/dp/B084F8NNN6/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=woke&qid=1597058325&s=digital-te"></a></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwWbfPP5QLrZey0QizjMUriUVupFKmNiO9tiuv8op8XgqISfEofVhbZp_xJE0N0InOrs5XE0id96PCEqpszuyrTQG6_aQX8mRi9FYYSaeIVaBbQVSTw9ym4CLVo03M-lk2ZzD4XSheUk/s618/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.19.18+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="516" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwWbfPP5QLrZey0QizjMUriUVupFKmNiO9tiuv8op8XgqISfEofVhbZp_xJE0N0InOrs5XE0id96PCEqpszuyrTQG6_aQX8mRi9FYYSaeIVaBbQVSTw9ym4CLVo03M-lk2ZzD4XSheUk/w169-h202/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.19.18+AM.png" width="169" /></a></i></b></div><b><i>Woke: A Young Poet's Call to Justice by Mahogany L. Browne with Elizabeth Acevedo and Olivia Gatwood</i></b> (2020)<p></p><p>Okay, maybe I'm on a poetry roll right now, but really you just can't go wrong with poetry. We are going back to school in turbulent times. (<a href="https://twitter.com/ILAToday/status/1291446038402863107">Check out ILA's webinar: Teaching in Turbulent Times</a>.) While COVID has knocked us off our feet, the voices of Black Lives Matter are calling for change long overdue. While these are tough times, we have the opportunity to come out of them better than we were. Books like <span style="font-style: italic;">Woke</span>, alongside books like <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dictionary-Better-World-Quotes-Anecdotes-ebook/dp/B081J6HQ7X/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=irene+latham+poetry&qid=1597058711&s=digital-text&sr=1-2">Dictionary for a Better World</a></i> and <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Can-Touch-Your-Hair-Friendship-ebook/dp/B076FBH52P/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=irene+latham+poetry&qid=1597058628&s=digital-text&sr=1-3">Can I Touch Your Hair?</a></i> (yep, I snuck in a few bonus titles there - it's a well known trick in the #pb10for10 world) can help start those conversations. You'll want this one in your collection, for sure. (<a href="https://lunch.publishersmarketplace.com/2020/03/reference-publisher-permissions/"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Roaring Brook Press appears to be part of Macmillon see permissions here</span></i></a>.)</p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cool-Cuts-Mechal-Renee-Roe/dp/1984895575/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=cool+cuts&qid=1597053260&s=books&sr=1-2"></a></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsyXo7fhSPWnIOTR2uCXwiGKNKnmtmajOeMn5L25ORRmobYjx_K63_Mjw460AsXNxZ7QxZ1lIR2M2qdBdEVLKx1THndEbbTyZQlVlNAWipMZHBcGrGXTQ8MCJC9S8sDvhyKHJnMAhOA8/s650/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+5.55.45+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="512" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsyXo7fhSPWnIOTR2uCXwiGKNKnmtmajOeMn5L25ORRmobYjx_K63_Mjw460AsXNxZ7QxZ1lIR2M2qdBdEVLKx1THndEbbTyZQlVlNAWipMZHBcGrGXTQ8MCJC9S8sDvhyKHJnMAhOA8/w165-h210/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+5.55.45+AM.png" width="165" /></a></i></div><div><br /></div><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cool-Cuts-Mechal-Renee-Roe/dp/1984895575/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=cool+cuts&qid=1597054242&s=books&sr=1-2">Cool Cuts</a> by Mechal Renee Roe </i>(2020)<p></p><p>Whether you're starting with students in a face-to-face or remote learning situation, this book will be perfect for getting started. At every page turn, the reader is greeted by positive affirmation and the words, "I am born to be awesome." Of course, the bonus is all of those great hair styles labeled for readers. When working to build identity and community, this book is sure to be a smart addition to your collection. This book is available in hard cover or digital format. I have the digital format which actually shows a copyright of 2016. (<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/penguin-random-house-temporary-open-license/"><i>Doubleday Publishers an imprint of Random House COVID read aloud policy</i></a></span>)</p><p><br /></p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Laylas-Happiness-Mariahdessa-Ekere-Tallie/dp/1592702880/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597059613&sr=1-2"></a></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA_oETCwwEt0rd3ABQrdUCi3UthpUw736YYoO-ahtiLcQxlMPeqAESJVpQH8rvXW5gYJ9I40iFbelNehyt4xbAK7aw5YGP9FCsoqBSC9x9EELndXFH1FG3jMswy-3SzdavtcXX5uEzRU/s680/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.40.29+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="496" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA_oETCwwEt0rd3ABQrdUCi3UthpUw736YYoO-ahtiLcQxlMPeqAESJVpQH8rvXW5gYJ9I40iFbelNehyt4xbAK7aw5YGP9FCsoqBSC9x9EELndXFH1FG3jMswy-3SzdavtcXX5uEzRU/w153-h210/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.40.29+AM.png" width="153" /></a></i></div><i style="font-weight: bold;">Layla's Happiness by Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie and illustrated by Ashleigh Corrin </i>(2020)<p></p><p>I can't imagine not having this book with me whether teaching from my classroom or at home. This just seems the perfect book for getting to know one another at the beginning of the year. In this book, readers discover all that makes Layla happy. This book would make a strong mentor text for some beginning writing as we build our learning communities and get to know one another. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hike-Alison-Farrell-ebook/dp/B07Q5L1RJS/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=the+hike&qid=1597060538&s=digital-text&sr=1-3"></a></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafkqHAdjEx7RHYAoQVdChXIo-qnJaGLMKRP6qvomgrdotanPdLhC-rb34pzfz3AIXTYTOKO4H9B_TYcwYCoc4OYmVj1zY6HCZm5nJoSK7EQHHSeS8BKElMk4MgamgtwWK-1YI8WXI_BU/s510/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.55.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="510" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafkqHAdjEx7RHYAoQVdChXIo-qnJaGLMKRP6qvomgrdotanPdLhC-rb34pzfz3AIXTYTOKO4H9B_TYcwYCoc4OYmVj1zY6HCZm5nJoSK7EQHHSeS8BKElMk4MgamgtwWK-1YI8WXI_BU/w209-h178/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+7.55.59+AM.png" width="209" /></a></i></div><i style="font-weight: bold;">The Hike by Alison Farrell </i>(2019)<p></p><p>If you want to find a way to get kids away from their screens, this book might be the perfect read aloud. If you want learners to learn to observe or find new ways to write, this book might be just what you need. Mandy Robek first shared this book with me and every time I share this picture book with someone else it is a win. In this book a group of friends heads out for a hike. As they hike, they take notes and make new discoveries. Whether at school or at home, this book has a myriad of possibilities. (<i><span style="font-size: small;">See <a href="https://www.katemessner.com/publisher-guidelines-on-fair-use-for-online-storytimes-read-alouds-during-covid-19-school-closures/">Kate Messner's copyright update</a> for information about Chronicle Books and COVID read aloud permissions</span></i>.) </p><p><br /></p><p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Serious-Goose-Jimmy-Kimmel/dp/0525707751/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=serious+goose&qid=1597052510&s=books&sr=1-2"></a></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtV87FsQwEu72JGPWE0q_0Llz7sCc_xEDc0iIsvKoEFmu0TrjUJCFxPgf7ckeMk_ALG3dVCw7nEVb2WmugSGdnQyFDciE6_47_fYbFl8acivr7VP7Set8QbuaF9qczsSDXH8OoVS3L30g/s670/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+5.42.02+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="524" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtV87FsQwEu72JGPWE0q_0Llz7sCc_xEDc0iIsvKoEFmu0TrjUJCFxPgf7ckeMk_ALG3dVCw7nEVb2WmugSGdnQyFDciE6_47_fYbFl8acivr7VP7Set8QbuaF9qczsSDXH8OoVS3L30g/w133-h168/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+5.42.02+AM.png" width="133" /></a><i style="font-weight: bold;"></i></div><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Serious-Goose-Jimmy-Kimmel/dp/0525707751/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=serious+goose&qid=1597054276&s=books&sr=1-2">The Serious Goose</a> by Jimmy Kimmel </i>(2019)<p></p><p>I'm not one to pick up picture books written by already famous people, but I'm glad I decided to open this one. In the heaviness of the times, a picture book to make kids laugh can be just what is needed. In this book, the narrator assures us nothing will make Serious Goose smile, but can a serious goose hold tough when kids are making faces? Whether reading this live from a distance or in a Zoom room, kids are going to love making faces to get a smile out of Serious Goose. This book is available in hard cover or digital edition. I have the digital edition of this one. If you need a laugh, this book is a must-have. (<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/penguin-random-house-temporary-open-license/"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Penguin Random House COVID read aloud policy</i></span></a>)</p><p><br /></p><p><b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Misunderstood-Shark-Ame-Dyckman-ebook/dp/B076H9TFHZ/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=misunderstood+shark&qid=1597061298&s=digital-text&sr=1-2"></a></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_aEPhmOiwR3Mru7YckQxr7_iAZtEunalHHSOIZ7TzLwiqkujOip1RtNPARwgOb0p0yU0xFERhBI4b_4VoY31G9-ClPPgcwBDPLz-YRwkbWviBrEV4gX3d3z38kY4HDBWuJGbHkCHZp4/s634/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+8.08.34+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="484" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_aEPhmOiwR3Mru7YckQxr7_iAZtEunalHHSOIZ7TzLwiqkujOip1RtNPARwgOb0p0yU0xFERhBI4b_4VoY31G9-ClPPgcwBDPLz-YRwkbWviBrEV4gX3d3z38kY4HDBWuJGbHkCHZp4/w158-h208/Screen+Shot+2020-08-10+at+8.08.34+AM.png" width="158" /></a></i></b></div><b><i>Misunderstood Shark by Ame Dyckman and illustrated by Scott Magoon</i></b> (2018)<p></p><p>Seriously, what #pb10for10 list would be complete without a book by Ame Dyckman? Her books always make for a fun read aloud. I haven't had one of them fail me in front of kids. As I think about beginning a year that may be started remotely, it's likely easy to be misunderstood. Even in our day to day life in the classroom, friends often do things that get misunderstood. This books surely sets up a story that makes this a fun discussion. Let's be honest, just the fact that this book has a shark in it makes it sure to be a winner. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Want to Join? </b></div><ol><li><b>Choose Your 10 Favorites:</b> All you need to do is choose ten picture books you cannot live without for whatever reason. In the first days of this event, everyone shared their ten very favorite titles. This still works. You will notice, however, that many past participants choose some type of theme or thread to connect their selections. We'll leave this up to you.</li><li><b>Write Your August 10th Post:</b> Write a post about the ten books you cannot live without. </li><li><b>No Blog? No Problem:</b> If you don't have a blog, this might be the perfect time to start one --- or there are a million digital ways to join. You could post from a Google page, create a S'more, make a Padlet, share in Twitter (and copy the Tweet link to the host blog), or any other creative idea you may be considering. We will also be tweeting from the #pb10for10 hashtag. </li><li><b>Link Your Selections: </b>Please share your posts at <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/2020/08/happy-picture-book-10-for-10-day.html">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a> in the comments of today's celebration post. (Share them on Twitter too at #pb10for10.) </li><li><b>Find Other Participants: </b>You will find the links to other 2020 collections in the comments of today's host blog.</li><li><b>Connect & Comment: </b>Take some time to read posts from other participants. Please comment on at least three. </li></ol><div><i>Warning: Picture Book 10 for 10 can be hard on your wallet. I'd pull out your library cards before you start to visit these wonderful posts below. </i></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-10854409853914087462020-08-03T06:46:00.000-04:002020-08-04T07:21:52.352-04:00The Countdown Has Begun: #pb10for10 <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/s1600/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qOAvfo7PiW42yUeO_StxzvAZYhE2MCBuBFeoQ2O88EC1ioLFblAcFpAUvESlsAV2UxKpeZN7ZBlC9UOfE1CJrfE1S3oJBM3YR_b42loUZ9KN9dplsWbc6jEAqatAPI5jxJ_VOn04PIY/w210-h158/pb+10+for+10+015.JPG" width="210" /></a></div>Well, it's been a decade. Since 2010 our community has been sharing picture books in August. Picture Book 10 for 10 <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2010/07/august-10-for-10-picture-book-event.html">began from a conversation about must-have picture books for our classroom</a> libraries. Mandy Robek, <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>, and I were going back and forth about our favorite books for our classroom communities when we decided it would be interesting to be able to meander through the libraries of other educators to see what books were on their shelves. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=tweets&vertical=default&q=%23pb10for10&src=typd">#pb10for10</a> for short. Since then, educators, librarians, parents, and book lovers in our PLN have been taking the time to create a list of their 10 favorite picture books to share with one another each year on August 10th. </div><div><br /></div><div>Mandy recently posted this reminder about the event at Enjoy and Embrace Learning: <a href="https://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/2020/07/picture-book-10-for-10-is-coming-august.html">Picture Book 10 for 10 is coming!</a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're like me, this year has been a tough one. Educators are working through so much in their personal and professional lives right now that Mandy and I have wrestled with whether this is a good year to host this event. Our attention needs to be on caring for ourselves, our family and preparing for the months ahead. We need time to read and learn new things to support our learners in a variety of different modes of instruction. We also are spending much time reflecting on the systemic racism that has to be a part of our conversations moving forward. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the end, we both decided that books are the only way forward. It's books that help us to see the world from a different point of view. It's books that help us to find answers to hard questions. It is books that make us laugh when laughter can be hard to find. We are going through a lot right now - and the children we spend our days with are going through a lot too. As we open our doors (or computers) in the coming weeks, the books we select can help us to find our way forward. </div><div><br /></div><div>The answer is always books. </div><div><br />So here we go. The countdown has begun. Next week #pb10for10 will step into a new decade. </div><div><br /></div><div>Next week we will share our collections of 10 must-have picture books because picture books can help us all to heal. </div><div><br />What to join the conversation? <br /><br /><b>The Basics</b><br />Want to join the conversation? <br /><div></div><ul><li><b>What: </b>10 picture books you can't live without.</li><li><b>Hashtag: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=tweets&vertical=default&q=%23pb10for10&src=typd">#pb10for10</a></li><li><b>Hosts: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">@mandyrobek</a> (<a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/CathyMere">@cathymere</a> (you're here)</li><li><b>Who: </b>Anyone interested --- educators, media specialists, librarians, parents, and book lovers. </li><li><b>When: </b>Monday, August 10th</li><li><b>Where: </b>All posts for 2020 will be linked to Mandy's blog: <a href="https://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a> (we had to old school so we could maintain the collections from this community)</li></ul><br /><b>Here's how you can participate:</b><br /><ol><li><b>Grab a Badge</b> (just copy the URL address of the one above or take a screenshot)</li><li><b>Choose Your Favorites:</b> All you need to do is choose ten picture books you cannot live without for whatever reason. In the first days of this event, everyone shared their ten very favorite titles. This still works. You will notice, however, that many past participants choose some type of theme or thread to connect their selections. We'll leave this up to you.</li><li><b>Narrow Your List to Ten:</b> It isn't easy, is it? We've seen some crafty ways to get around that number. </li><li><b>Write Your August 10th Post:</b> Write a post about the ten books you cannot live without. Share the link to your collection at Enjoy and Embrace Learning on August 10th. </li><li><b>No Blog? No Problem:</b> If you don't have a blog, this might be the perfect time to start one --- or there are a million digital ways to join. You could post from a Google page, create a S'more, share in Twitter (and copy the Tweet link), or any other creative idea you may be considering. We will also be tweeting from the #pb10for10 hashtag. </li><li><b>Comment: </b>On August 10th (and maybe for a week --- there are a lot of posts) take some time to read posts from other participants. Please comment on at least three. </li></ol><div>Let the countdown begin!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you can join us!</div><div><b><br /></b></div></div>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-46440467745786404132020-06-22T08:40:00.000-04:002020-06-22T08:40:46.745-04:00A #cyberPD Announcement: Maybe Year 10 Needs to Be Different<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQRRfPGtHBqcCLaXpVjYXHgwHMs5iARBcAekOg3b2P3mPfSN3ZGZemF_O0BL-dksIzREp2tb4Ii2SOskqfTDZos7QCpiwXbo2JpwDuWjXZ67PjtU2UcB0vPDyggHt8g1nzWGT0s57F28/s1600/Skitch-2012-06-10+11_22_09+%252B0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1110" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQRRfPGtHBqcCLaXpVjYXHgwHMs5iARBcAekOg3b2P3mPfSN3ZGZemF_O0BL-dksIzREp2tb4Ii2SOskqfTDZos7QCpiwXbo2JpwDuWjXZ67PjtU2UcB0vPDyggHt8g1nzWGT0s57F28/s200/Skitch-2012-06-10+11_22_09+%252B0000.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
For a decade, #cyberPD has been an anticipated summer event to connect educators near and far in collaborative professional conversation. Through blogs, Twitter, and various digital media, participants share thinking around a common professional title featured for discussion. Though the main event is in July of each year, the conversations and connections carry across the year. Since #cyberPD's first event, we've grown from a group of less than 15 to a community of over 150 educators. <br /><br />We have found this community to be powerful and the conversations have helped us grow in our journey as educators. These conversations have pushed us, made us uncomfortable, and allowed us the chance to see things from different perspectives. It’s amazing to think that #cyberPD was a pioneer for online book clubs and this community made it possible! <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTHSChDcJMS-BDzsfQ-7qokoLVLL4btheES9NfOxhw5KeOjPHTrY344sa7zOj5CWS70286D2PxyWuVKXaaf8skoIqWQi49PICL1EUFq5NsqRZI35X7YEfxvA_1-U6F0Sqv7oPtjEJB-U/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-22+at+8.27.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="620" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTHSChDcJMS-BDzsfQ-7qokoLVLL4btheES9NfOxhw5KeOjPHTrY344sa7zOj5CWS70286D2PxyWuVKXaaf8skoIqWQi49PICL1EUFq5NsqRZI35X7YEfxvA_1-U6F0Sqv7oPtjEJB-U/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-06-22+at+8.27.43+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
Yet, here we are today. When we got ready to “share our bookstacks,” COVID was in full swing and teachers were juggling remote teaching, staying healthy, and their family. Then, when we began to get back to the 2020 #cyberPD planning, we were shook by the death of George Floyd and heard the call across the country for an end to systemic racism. Educators are once again in the forefront of these discussions wanting to be part of the change. It seems this is a time to dig in to listen and learn, a time to lift the voices of BIPOC educators, and a time for each of us to pursue the learning we need to take action. <br /><br />Therefore, after much reflection and conversation, we have decided to not select a book to read together as a community in what would have been our tenth year. We want to leave space for the important issues at hand. We want to be here for each other, to support and learn together -- no matter what your focus and goals are for this summer! <br /><br />We want to thank each of you for your role in making #cyberPD the event that it has been since 2011. It is the community that has made it strong. We know that each member of our community is already busy pursuing opportunities to continue to grow into all that our students need from us. <b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">We hope that you will continue to use the #cyberPD hashtag to:</span></div>
<ul>
<li>stay connected as a community</li>
<li>seek support</li>
<li>share professional books you are reading (maybe even make some connections with others doing the same reading)</li>
<li>post resources (articles, book titles, webinars, videos, etc.) around questions you are pursuing that may be of interest to the #cyberPD community</li>
<li>amplify nuggets of insights, surprises, and quotes from what you are reading and learning</li>
<li>pose questions, confusions, and challenges to our community</li>
</ul>
<div>
We know that books, conversations, and this #cyberPD community can help us on that journey. We look forward to continuing to learn alongside each of you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
We need to stay strong together. To help each other move forward. To change. To BE the change. <div>
<br />Thank you for your kind understanding,<br />Michelle & Cathy <div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-77530141898525592612020-04-30T07:06:00.000-04:002020-04-30T07:06:32.595-04:00(More Than) Three for Your Library: Lighten Up with Picture Books When the #stayathome began, I asked my son who teaches third grade, "What do you think might make some great read alouds for our students right now?"<br />
<br />
"Maybe they just need books that will make them laugh," he replied without missing a beat.<br />
<br />
I was ready to solve the world's problems with picture books. Isn't that what you do? However, he had an excellent point. Our students are away from their friends, there is much uncertainty, and all the joys of being five, seven, or nine have been placed on hold in many ways.<br />
<br />
Since then, our #stayathome orders have been lengthened. We are all trying to learn to teach in this new abnormal. (Sorry, I just can't call it our new normal as there is nothing normal about it.)<br />
<br />
Thankfully, my picture books are here with me. If I had been in the classroom, instead of my current role, my picture books likely would have been left on the shelves of my school. I probably would have filled a bag or two for good measure, but I would be without a lot of them. With libraries being closed right now too, the challenge of getting books is amplified. We've been grateful to have these books at home over the last month+, but it always makes me think about teachers who may be home without their books.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I hosted a Zoom opportunity to talk about picture books. It seemed a good idea to lighten things up a bit - okay, maybe <i style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;">I</i> needed to lighten up a bit. Picture books not only solve any world problem, they also lighten things up. They're good therapy. I tried to consider that we are all stuck at home without access to books. Some of the titles you see in the S'more are only available for delivery, but many are available digitally. I found several of these titles available digitally in our local library - some weren't even currently checked out. That's a win.<br />
<br />
Here's what you'll find in the S'more:<br />
<b>Five New Picture Books: </b>There are many great picture books coming out right now. While not as easy to obtain in this crisis, it is possible to order them for delivery and a few can be found digitally. Yep, I might still be ordering books on occasion. You've gotta support small businesses - and authors right now, right?! These are five titles I currently love. <br />
<br />
<b>Five Books to Lighten Up: </b>My son made such a good point that I went to my shelves looking for lighter titles. I was pleased to come up with a nice stack of funny books. It was hard to reduce this list to five, but you'll find a few suggestions here. <br />
<br />
<b>Five Digital Resources for Remote Learning: </b>When this situation began I started collecting resources on a Padlet. It seemed the first thing we tried to figure out as teachers was how to maintain the read aloud. Before authors and publishers started granting limited permission for use, I went on a quest to find some ways to get stories to kids. This search included some of the spaces we all know and love such as: <a href="https://www.storylineonline.net/">Storyline Online</a>, <a href="https://www.tumblebooklibrary.com/Home.aspx?categoryID=77">Tumblebooks</a>, and <a href="https://bookflix.digital.scholastic.com/home?authCtx=U.628847788">BookFlix</a>. You'll find a few others, I have since discovered in the S'more.<br />
<br />
<b>Five Digital Spaces to Remember: </b>Many of us have subscriptions to digital spaces that provide books, articles, and other reading material. These spaces are important to remember right now. (Of course, you'll want to check into copyright: <a class="external" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/113E-0ffElTRoI7zsvk6gjxrAgepeD-JGAD55-ftSfrc/edit?ts=5ea61d38" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;" target="_blank">COVID-19 Reference from SLJ: Multiple Publishers Fair Use Policy</a>.) Here are a few I have found helpful in this situation.<br />
<br />
I hope you find this resource helpful. If you have something new, something light, or something digital you love right now, please share some of your favorite's in the comments below. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="auto" src="https://www.smore.com/7s8fg-take-five?embed=1" style="border: none; min-width: 320px;" title="Take Five" width="100%"></iframe>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-1833125782296043632020-04-23T22:00:00.000-04:002020-04-24T06:45:35.907-04:00Three Read Alouds for Your Library: Let's Make Them Digital In the first days of teaching our students from our homes, the scramble began for read aloud. I have always found the read aloud to be the glue of my classroom community, but this has sealed the deal on that. In our remote learning environment read aloud is till holding our community together, making us laugh, leading our instruction, and mentoring our writers.<br />
<br />
With the temporary adjustments made by many publishers, teachers are finding ways to still read aloud with their classes. Whether it be on temporary video or in a live session, many teachers have discovered their learners love seeing them. Read aloud can certainly help maintain connection while we are away from our classrooms. With libraries closed and books at home limited, bringing books into the living rooms of our children's homes is as essential as reading aloud in our classrooms.<br />
<br />
Of course, as teachers, the number of books we have at home is limited too and reading aloud every day, when it requires video recording or gathering a large group, has its challenges. There are a variety of created materials and websites that can help fill the need for read aloud at this time. <br />
<br />
Here are three I love for your digital library: <br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Saturday-Oge-Mora/dp/0316431273/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3AD6N48JERZGS&dchild=1&keywords=saturday+by+oge+mora&qid=1587723075&sprefix=saturday+by+%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1">Saturday</a> by Oge Mora </b>I was excited to find one of my favorite books of this year available in read aloud....and by the author! That's a win. This story talks about a Saturday that doesn't go quite as planned. As all of us are stuck at home, I think we'd love a Saturday as disastrous as this one. Kids will love the repetitive structure of this day that has gone wrong - but then turns right. I found this read aloud on a post by <a href="https://www.romper.com/">Romper:</a> <a href="https://www.romper.com/p/famous-people-reading-childrens-books-is-one-good-thing-during-the-coronavirus-shut-in-22621288">Famous People Read Aloud</a>. <br />
<br />
Of course, this post led me <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=%23OperationStorytime">#operationstorytime</a> in YouTube. Oh my goodness!!! So many read alouds tucked in here!!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G_TKhaMv-cI" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Big-Bad-Baby-Bruce-Hale-ebook/dp/B00I3N5VFU/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=big+bad+baby&qid=1587723635&sr=8-1">Big Bad Baby!</a> by Bruce Hale and illustrated by Steve Breen. </b>This one made me laugh. I hadn't seen it before, but loved all the trouble caused by Big Bad Baby. Sometimes a little lighter picture book can certainly help us all right now and this book might be just what everyone needs. Who knows? Maybe one of your students is home with Big Bad Baby right now. Ha!<br />
<br />
I found this one in a collection of others in this post by We Are Teachers: <a href="https://www.weareteachers.com/virtual-author-activities/">The Big List of Children's Authors Doing Online Read Alouds and Activities</a>. Check it out!<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-4mvKSNM8bY" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bear-Ate-Your-Sandwich/dp/1984852094/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UJP2IKTHXORS&dchild=1&keywords=the+bear+ate+your+sandwich&qid=1587724068&sprefix=the+bear+ate+%2Caps%2C215&sr=8-1">The Bear Ate Your Sandwich </a>by Julia Sarcone-Roach. </b>I stumbled on another book that I love available in read aloud. I found this one on Brightly Storytime. This book is about a bear, tempted by a truckload of berries, who begins on an adventure that takes him right to your sandwich. Or was it bear that ate your sandwich? Hmmm....<br />
<br />
Of course, I love finding a favorite picture book available for kids in read aloud, but I also appreciated the way Brightly is able to show picture and text together on the screen. The words are bolded as the reader reads aloud. What a great way to give our youngest readers the opportunity to see print. You'll find other read alouds available at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvQagFNHMrGgQpYunk4rHXg">Brightly Storytime</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MRhtZ8DspaE" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
If you have favorite stops for digital read alouds, please share them in the comments below.Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-43853537758898030222020-04-21T07:16:00.000-04:002020-04-21T07:16:08.645-04:00Collaborating with Colleagues in a Pandemic: Don't Forget Voxer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTrw8VVIPmpfXImH2n2jUaN4Goyi0Qdmyl3V9oV_Dxk4dYg5-yjIPkqc0VNMztZXlp6KRPDOPv_3OEjnanupP8amq2zcXrJyjGOKNKnJrslLtHFRTWe9PO9b1wecLZYgsizwaXDicluo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-19+at+7.59.45+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="736" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTrw8VVIPmpfXImH2n2jUaN4Goyi0Qdmyl3V9oV_Dxk4dYg5-yjIPkqc0VNMztZXlp6KRPDOPv_3OEjnanupP8amq2zcXrJyjGOKNKnJrslLtHFRTWe9PO9b1wecLZYgsizwaXDicluo/s200/Screen+Shot+2020-04-19+at+7.59.45+AM.png" width="160" /></a></div>
My kids have always made fun of me for my love of Voxer. "Mom, it's just a walkie-talkie," they'd giggle as if I had stepped back too far in time. They'd laugh as I chit-chatted with friends over the app.<br />
<br />
Voxer has remained one of my favorite apps across time. If you asked me to pick five apps and delete the rest from my phone it would likely make the cut. You see, Voxer lets you have conversations with people that maintain the back and forth, but allow for people to respond as they are able.<br />
<br />
I first fell in love with Voxer when working with my team years ago. So many times we'd get a good conversation going in the hallway or during a meeting and, you know teaching life, we wouldn't be able to finish it. Voxer let us finish it - and it let us finish it together. It wasn't that one team member talked to another and wrapped up our next steps, it was that the group kept the conversation going until we found the next step together. Since then, I've maintained my love for Voxer for keeping up with friends near and far. I've solved some tough challenges with friends on Voxer.<br />
<br />
Now, in this remote learning situation, I'm once again reminded of the power of Voxer. In school buildings there are rhythms to schedules. You know the better times to try to reach out and talk with others. In this situation, there is no way to predict someone's schedule. In Voxer I'm able to reach out and have friends respond as their day allows. We can still continue the back and forth of conversation, but slowed down a bit in time.<br />
<br />
Voxer also makes it easier to explain your thinking or get different perspectives. Texting can be limiting as it can be hard to explain things in detail or hear the tone of words. Additionally, all of the time on screens makes Voxer a welcome relief.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for ways to stay connected, solve problems, or have conversations in groups, don't forget Voxer. It may be just a "walkie-talkie," but it's my favorite walkie-talkie.Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-59165388002639911842020-04-19T07:33:00.001-04:002020-04-19T07:33:38.688-04:00Technology Will Not Save Us <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KfvSr5SIFYKJ6ZNxqxCN-P0LBFa-F_Fey2AU_EAzI3WkUXu7NWuzxJOSByqlYAbtqK6cfJu54kjpj_KEy_9JHXGus8HSA8jgSvQ-CehDWyf-mlqH2TSvII9BUnmJSNa49-G9G3LHblY/s1600/IMG_8672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KfvSr5SIFYKJ6ZNxqxCN-P0LBFa-F_Fey2AU_EAzI3WkUXu7NWuzxJOSByqlYAbtqK6cfJu54kjpj_KEy_9JHXGus8HSA8jgSvQ-CehDWyf-mlqH2TSvII9BUnmJSNa49-G9G3LHblY/s200/IMG_8672.jpg" width="185" /></a></div>
This morning as I made a cup of coffee my iWatch sent me an alert: "Make it happen today." While I appreciate my watch's optimism, it sounded a little disconnected from the times. <i>Don't you know I'm under stay at home orders? Don't you know we are working from home? Don't you know we are in the middle of a pandemic that is so tragic I am just happy to have gotten myself up most morning? </i>That's technology. It attempts to know us, but it doesn't really <i>know us. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
So here we are teaching from home and wrestling with all kinds of new questions. At the same time, resources to make it all easier are being sent our way. Companies are opening their platforms so that we can utilize their sites. It's a little hard to not feel like a kid caught in a candy store. There are are so many sites that usually have fees for use that have opened. As I review these sites, I just can't help but be reminded that technology doesn't really know our learners.<br />
<br />
You see, I've been fortunate to walk alongside teachers during this unusual time. I have been so awed by the way they work to find resources that meet the needs of their learners. As teachers, we understand that putting kids on a program might give them something to do, but it doesn't necessary give them something to learn. Computer programs can't know a child's preferences the way we can. Computer programs can't connect learners to their peers the way we can. Computer programs can't build that love for reading that so delicately must walk alongside the development of skills. <br />
<br />
I was recently reviewing a site that touted being "scientifically researched." Oh, that can mean so much. I couldn't help but think about the difference in learning for a child jumping on this program and one who has the opportunity to continue to read, write, and connect with their friends and learning community. I couldn't help but think about the teachers I've been working with who are finding ways to maintain those next steps in building concepts of print, develop knowledge of letters and words, grow the thinking of their readers, support next steps in writing and help young learners continue to progress during this crisis. In these first weeks, we've been discovering ways to maintain what we know to be essential for our literacy learners while adjusting to their situations. We are supporting learning in the midst of crisis. <br />
<br />
So while sites open their doors, we continue to look for ways to connect our students with their community. We continue to think of ways to support the literacy development of our young learners. We continue to find ways to get students away from their screens as not all learning has to happen there - and right now we could all use a screen break. We continue to value choice and learner agency as we empower students to have opportunities to create instead of consume in this new learning environment. Most of all, we continue to walk softly and nudge learners forward knowing that now, more than ever, we have to meet them where they are.<br />
<br />
You see, technology will never know what we know about our learners. Though it is helping us in this crisis, technology will not save us.Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-83554466460563113882020-03-15T11:30:00.000-04:002020-03-15T11:30:55.451-04:00Good Problems: So Many Resources, So Much TimeI'm still taking in our current situation. We have tried to stay in this weekend. Actually, our family began over a week ago trying to limit the places we were going and to stay at home more. It hasn't been easy. I've been cooking way more than I like. (Waaaayyyyy more.) We're a house full of introverts and readers, but we're already getting stir crazy. The weather here hasn't helped. It's still too cold to walk or sit out on the patio. <br />
<br />
So....I may have found myself on social media more than I should be. Of course, if you're a teacher you know the resources getting posted are something. There are websites and apps opening their content for these weeks of shutdowns. There are authors finding ways to share about writing moves and read their books. There are teachers and educational leaders creating and sharing lessons and other possibilities for remote learning. There are lists of collections. Honestly, I'm guessing it will continue as we all have more time to create content since we are stuck inside. <br />
<br />
I've been truly so impressed by the way everyone has come together.<br />
<br />
And yet....<br />
<br />
It's all a little overwhelming. <br />
<br />
And here's the thing: it's not all going to be good for our kids or their learning. <br />
<br />
I'm truly grateful for all that is being shared - truly - but yesterday I couldn't quit thinking about it might feel to teachers. As an instructional coach, my hope in this time is to support teachers as they need it; to help them puzzle out the tricky parts of this situation and provide resources when requested. Teachers know their kids best - and that's the most exciting thing about this situation. They're still going to be able to tailor instruction for their learners. <br />
<br />
All of the resources available remind me of years ago when we first started dabbling in the digital world. When I first started using digital tools with my students, I could hardly contain my excitement. Every single time a new app came out, I had to give it a try. Not all of them made it to my classroom, but many did. My kids were pretty tech savvy (for the time) and able to adjust to the new tools. Of course, updates happen. Companies quit creating apps. I got wiser. I then began to look for apps that could do a lot - and that would stay. I started to work from a solid core of apps. I found myself more focused on tools that would let us work flexibly in ways that enhanced our learning. I found myself in a less is more way of thinking.<br />
<br />
The plethora of resources available right now reminds me of that time long ago. As an educator, I just had to press pause yesterday. There are so many resources being shared. I decided the best thing to do was to create a Padlet with the resources I am seeing that might be useful - many of them will not. I do not plan to share this collection (there are a million lists out there). My hope is to just have it ready when people reach out with specific needs they are trying to fill. It's to help me find the resources I think will be useful in continuing to support learners. It will give me a place of reference when colleagues reach out with a particular need. <br />
<br />
We're all working to find our way in this unprecedented situation. If we let what learners need be our guide, the next step will be easier to find. Know if you need something, I'm here trying to figure it out beside you. I'd love to hear how you are managing all the resources. Which ones are you finding the most useful? What's working? What are the challenges you face? <br />
<br />Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-6988412078998638402020-03-14T07:53:00.000-04:002020-03-14T07:53:56.354-04:00Keeping Learning Going When We Aren't Gathered at the CarpetWho knew we'd be talking about "social-distancing" in 2020 and closing schools to slow a virus? It has made for an interesting week that I didn't expect in my career. That being said, I've been amazed at the way everyone has stepped up to make the best decisions we can for kids and families. In the last few days, we have done a lot of work to prepare our students to move from face-to-face learning to an eLearning environment. <br />
<br />
As a 1:1 school, we are fortunate to have many things in place that will support our students during this time. Additionally, teachers will still be able to tailor instruction to their students in ways that wouldn't have been possible years ago. I've been so fascinated by the way companies have stepped up and opened websites, the way authors and illustrators are sharing their talents, and the way teachers and educational consultants are sharing content. That being said, I have been thinking a lot about how we create an environment for learning vs. a checklist of to-dos for our students. <br />
<br />
How do we leverage learning over tasks? It's true that there are so many ways this situation will be made better by all that is available, but there are also many cautions. Do we introduce new learning or reinforce old? Is it possible to introduce new content? How might we differentiate for our students? How do we balance student workload? How do we keep our communities connected? How do we support parents who will already be juggling a lot with their own work situations and kids at home? Oh, the questions that can take us down the rabbit hole quickly. <br />
<br />
I've been telling myself that all we can do is make the best decisions we can in the space we find ourselves. As we plan for our learning communities, here are a few things I am keeping in mind:<br />
<br />
<b>Consider Technology Kids Know: </b>There are many new environments opening for students, but our learners will be most successful in the spaces they have already worked. If your district has an LMS, learners will be able to use the platform. If kids are used to blogging on Kidblog, they'll be ready to stay connected during this time. If they're used to saving work to Google folders, this will be a great way for them to share work with you. If learners have used Flip Grid, leverage it for lessons. (etc.)<br />
<br />
<b>Remember Routines & Structures:</b> As classroom teachers, our workshops have a flow that learners know and understand. We start with mini lesson, students have opportunities for independent practice, and then we share. Our days follow predictable routines and, as teachers, we work to balance the heaviness of our content across the day. The closer we are able to align to those structures and routines we've set up, the easier it will be for students and families. Additionally, I've been seeing a lot of parents and teachers talking about creating schedules for the day. This is such a smart way to think about managing our time --- especially as we all hunker into our homes for a few weeks. <br />
<br />
<b>Think About Learning vs. Doing: </b> It would be easy to put together lists of to-dos for kids, but I'm fascinated to think about all of the ways we can support actual learning. We can create videos to explain new ideas, make charts that support key understandings for reference, and in some learning systems find ways to build discussions that connect our learners. <br />
<br />
<b>Be Selective: </b> Thankfully there are so many great resources being shared right now and so many companies are opening platforms for this timeframe. I have been collecting these resources in a Padlet so I know where they are, but I will only be using those that make sense for where we are in learning. There are some very well-known experts sharing content, but only we know our kids. <br />
<br />
<b>Maintain Connection: </b>We've had a lot of conversation around feedback and connection. It's a little different to not be gathered for a mini-lesson. It's a little different to not be side by side with learners. It's a little different to not be sitting in a circle to share our work. The more feedback and connection we can maintain the more likely our learners are to feel supported and stay engaged. Parents will also need a bit more connection in this current situation as well. This will look different for each of us, but play a big part in the success of this time. <br />
<br />
This isn't a situation any of us planned for in our careers. Additionally, it comes with some heavy weight beyond just the learning time. We each need to give ourselves, and our students, the grace to know we may have to work a bit to find our way. All we can do is stand where we are and gently step. <br />
<br />
I'd love to hear the ways you are working through next steps for your learning communities. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-78274992372870866532020-02-10T00:01:00.000-05:002020-02-10T05:28:10.290-05:00Today's the Day: Share Your Nonfiction Picture Book Selections Here #nf10for10<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4ZUq-LtSNTEaZ2bldRkukEHgTS_YE8th8XpXQ4XTsEUwV5P2TNKTk-oCxG2GV-P6p0KL-iM5vfFJ1MP6n9MCu2WSQdkkLPYNmb4O9n3BA-nm5SBqAhUsZ80ukFjySBA8NXuDqHez1ZQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+11.55.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="351" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4ZUq-LtSNTEaZ2bldRkukEHgTS_YE8th8XpXQ4XTsEUwV5P2TNKTk-oCxG2GV-P6p0KL-iM5vfFJ1MP6n9MCu2WSQdkkLPYNmb4O9n3BA-nm5SBqAhUsZ80ukFjySBA8NXuDqHez1ZQ/s200/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+11.55.24+PM.png" width="200" /></a></div>
It's February 10th!!!<br />
<br />
You know what that means....<br />
<br />
It's time for our annual #nf10for10.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for the place to share your nonfiction picture book selections for our #nf10for10 event, you're in the right spot. I'm excited to be hosting this year's nonfiction picture book celebration! Just scroll to the bottom of the post for more information, but basically you just need to leave your link in the comments below. <br />
<br />
This is our 8th year for this nonfiction event. I am looking forward to reading everyone's selections. <br />
<br />
<div>
<b>And My 2020 Selections Are...</b><br />
So what does participation in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100DaysofNotebooking?src=hashtag_click&f=live">#100daysofnotebooking</a> with <a href="http://www.michellehaseltine.com/100daysofnotebooking">Michelle Hasteltine</a>, coupled with the conversations I have been having with colleagues about supporting young writers with informational writing, and the latest blog post from Melissa Stewart about expository nonfiction text structures have me wondering? All this has me thinking about the importance of a notebook in collecting ideas and information for nonfiction writing. So...what are the books that might make a young writer want to grab a notebook for some informational writing? <br />
<br />
Maybe these ten will get us started....<br />
<br />
<b>10 Books to Inspire Young Writers to Grab Their Notebook</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61ZX5UcetgL._SY416_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="500" height="166" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61ZX5UcetgL._SY416_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Look-Up-Bird-Watching-Backyard-Informational/dp/0763645613/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1EIV5LCDONXHG&keywords=look+up+bird-watching+in+your+own+backyard&qid=1581289260&s=books&sprefix=look+up+watching+%2Cstripbooks%2C200&sr=1-1">Look Up! Bird-Watching in Your Own Backyard</a> by Annette LeBlanc Cate<br />
<br />
This book might inspire some quiet observation outside or a bit of research to learn more. The book's illustrations, speech bubbles, and simple collections of information are sure to inspire the information collector. The "Bird Watching Do's and Don't's!" could easily apply to other lists of "do's and don't's." There are several other informational organization ideas presented in the pages that are sure to bring pen to paper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51dVonRtPrL._SX430_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="432" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51dVonRtPrL._SX430_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="172" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Animals-Numbers-Infographics-Outstanding-Students/dp/0544630920/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=animals+by+the+numbers&qid=1581289811&s=books&sr=1-1">Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Animal Infographics</a> by Steve Jenkins<br />
<br />
Oh, infographics. I love them and this book does not disappoint. Full of interesting collections of animal facts, this book is sure to inspire notebook collections. Want to web information? You'll find examples here. Want to graph findings? Yep, you'll find that too. Want to get creative with collections? Here's the place to start. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51tc1suhxOL._SX403_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="405" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51tc1suhxOL._SX403_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mapping-Sam-Joyce-Hesselberth/dp/0062741225/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=mapping+sam&qid=1581291615&s=books&sr=1-1">Mapping Sam</a> by Joyce Hesselberth<br />
<br />
Writers can do so much with mapping. Want to understand a location? Want to share your house, a park you've visited, a city, or the stars? Well, mapping is the perfect way to do that. <i>Mapping Sam</i> has maps to inspire your thinking.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51wVPpkcLiL._SX376_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="378" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51wVPpkcLiL._SX376_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="151" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Presidents-Portraits-History-Leah-Tinari/dp/1534418571/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1581291845&refinements=p_27%3ALeah+Tinari&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Leah+Tinari">The Presidents: Portraits of History</a> by Leah Tinari<br />
<br />
From the author of <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Limitless-Remarkable-American-Women-Vision/dp/1534418555/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1581291845&refinements=p_27%3ALeah+Tinari&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Leah+Tinari">Limitless: 24 Remarkable American Women of Vision, Grit, and Guts</a></i> comes this beautifully illustrated book. This book will inspire budding artists, fact collectors, and information enthusiasts to open their notebooks. Grab some paints, markers, or colored pencils and get started! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/519s1mQnlxL._SY453_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="500" height="181" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/519s1mQnlxL._SY453_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lovely-Beasts-Surprising-Kate-Gardner/dp/0062741616/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=lovely+beasts&qid=1581292200&s=books&sr=1-1">Lovely Beasts: The Surprising Truth</a> by Kate Gardner and illustrated by Heidi Smith<br />
<br />
For all the word collectors, <i>Lovely Beasts </i>is sure to get them jotting words and interesting ways to express meaning. The author weaves words with interesting facts about these lovely beasts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51KCiUYh45L._SY450_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="500" height="180" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51KCiUYh45L._SY450_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Give-Bees-Chance-Bethany-Barton/dp/0593113721/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=give+bees+a+chance&qid=1581292398&s=books&sr=1-1">Give Bees a Chance</a> by Bethany Barton<br />
<br />
The end papers alone should bring out the notebooks. The author has drawn a variety of bees with a quick fact about each. These simple drawings and collections of information are sure to inspire young writers to start researching. Additionally, the book is full of other interesting ways to collect information including drawings with labels, sequence of steps (in this case for how honey is made), and so much more. Packed with possibility this book is sure to get readers to think twice about bees AND to grab their notebook.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51hJc9GYLKL._SX497_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="499" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51hJc9GYLKL._SX497_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Flying-Frogs-Walking-Fish-Jet-Propelled/dp/0544630904/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1ES5NQ1HZD8R9&keywords=flying+frogs+and+walking+fish&qid=1581292841&s=books&sprefix=flying+frogs+%2Cstripbooks%2C145&sr=1-1">Flying Frogs and Walking Fish</a> by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page<br />
<br />
Hmmm. I wonder if I have ever had a nonfiction list that didn't include a Steve Jenkins book. This list has two. He's the master. One of the things I love about his work is the interesting way he sorts and categorizes information. This book is a great read full of the many ways animals move, but its the last pages that I'm sure will bring out the notebooks. Jenkins and Page have quickly collected facts on different animals and the many ways they move. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51197eyg8sL._SX383_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="385" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51197eyg8sL._SX383_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Who-Am-Peek-Through-Pages-Endangered-Animals/dp/1419736469/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=tim+flach&qid=1581293261&sr=8-4">Who Am I?</a> by Tim Flach<br />
<br />
This book is sure to inspire some quick writes in a writing notebook. In this book, Flach shares a dozen animals that are endangered. The book allows a quick peek at part of the animal, tells a bit about it, and then readers find out which animal was being highlighted as they turn the page. Writers are sure to be inspired to start to collect clues for their own "<i>Who Am I" </i>writing. The back of the book includes more information about why each animal is special and the reasons they have become endangered. This one is sure to get pencils flying.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61AIVymTfqL._SX430_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="432" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61AIVymTfqL._SX430_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="172" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Notable-Notebooks-Scientists-Their-Writings/dp/1681403072/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1581293835&refinements=p_27%3AJessica+Fries-Gaither&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Jessica+Fries-Gaither">Notable Notebooks: Scientists and Their Writing</a> by Jessica Fries-Gaither<br />
<br />
This book highlights different scientists and the way they used their notebooks to collect information. So many possibilities....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51HgvLKN%2BeL._SY423_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="500" height="170" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51HgvLKN%2BeL._SY423_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hike-Alison-Farrell/dp/145217461X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+hike&qid=1581294258&s=books&sr=1-1">The Hike </a>by Alison Farrell<br />
<br />
I'm taking a little liberty here. Isn't that what these picture book events are all about? We've all found little ways to finesse the system. This book isn't an informational text...well unless the author has taken some autobiographical liberties. Though it isn't informational, I think it could inspire some observational collecting in a writer's notebook. Mandy shared this book with me as we wandered the rows at NCTE and I fell in love with it immediately. Not only is it a great story about the delight of a hike with friends, but it also has some peeks into Wren's sketchbook at the end that are sure to inspire. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>10 Nonfiction Picture Books </b><br />
<div>
In previous nonfiction events, I've shared:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>2020....</li>
<li><a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2019/02/its-today-nonfiction-picture-book-10.html">2019 Ten Hybrids I Can't Live Without</a></li>
<li><a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2018/02/nonfiction-picture-books-to-inspire.html">2018 Ten Nonfiction Picture Books to Inspire Informational Writers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2017/02/10-nonfiction-picture-books-of-promise.html">2017 Ten Nonfiction Picture Books of Promise for Our World</a></li>
<li><a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2016/02/its-time-2016s-nonfiction-10-for-10.html">2016 Ten Nonfiction Authors I Can't Live Without</a></li>
<li><a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2015/02/nonfiction-picture-book-event-reading.html">2015 Nonfiction Read-Aloud Favorites</a></li>
<li><a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2014/02/mentor-texts-for-young-nonfiction.html">2014 Mentor Texts for Young Nonfiction Writers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2013/02/nonfiction-top-ten-nf10for10.html">2013 My Top Ten Nonfiction Picture Book</a> </li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
</div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Join Us</b><br />
Want to join the conversation? You're in the right place. Just add your link in the comments below. <br />
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><b>What: </b>10 nonfiction picture books you can't live without.</li>
<li><b>Hashtag: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23nf10for10&src=typd" target="_blank">#nf10for10</a></li>
<li><b>Hosts: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">@mandyrobek</a> (<a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/jacbalen">@jacbalen</a> (<a href="https://jacbalen.wordpress.com/">Connecting to Learn</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/CathyMere">@cathymere</a> (you're here)</li>
<li><b>Who: </b>Anyone interested --- educators, media specialists, librarians, parents, and book lovers. </li>
<li><b>When: </b>Monday, February 10th (TODAY!)</li>
<li><b>Where: </b>All posts for 2020 will be linked right here at Reflect & Refine</li>
</ul>
</div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-32701267753507434512020-02-06T06:01:00.002-05:002020-02-06T06:01:30.222-05:00It's Almost Time for our Annual Nonfiction Picture Book Celebration <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNPAfwu_qpAbs468MPIUlkIAlb6MyeM84rDqEcOfcMwX1Vf6ebm8qaHfFqigRHe1TqgP5RZaFJWDPd7QfgqkHupOvhpa6K9JRL4r2IMRYx5kxiphfgjXZI9bmF6eP0PORm_rQawVXUkE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+11.55.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="351" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNPAfwu_qpAbs468MPIUlkIAlb6MyeM84rDqEcOfcMwX1Vf6ebm8qaHfFqigRHe1TqgP5RZaFJWDPd7QfgqkHupOvhpa6K9JRL4r2IMRYx5kxiphfgjXZI9bmF6eP0PORm_rQawVXUkE/s200/Screen+Shot+2013-02-04+at+11.55.24+PM.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<b>Our February Nonfiction Event</b><br />
Yikes! Time flies when you're having fun! How did we leap into February so quickly? (I think we will leap out of February this year too. Sorry, I love bad puns.) Mandy, our event co-conspirator shared <a href="https://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/2020/01/nf10for10-sneak-peak-nonfiction-picture.html">a little sneak peek to her stack</a> for upcoming nonfiction celebration. <br />
<br />
Yep, the countdown is well underway. Next week is February's Nonfiction Picture Book 10 for 10 event (<a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=tweets&vertical=default&q=%23nf10for10&src=typd">#nf10for10</a>). I'm always amazed that this event rolls up so quickly. It seems we flip the calendar - and boom - it's time to prepare for February's nonfiction picture book party: #nf10for10. This year will be our 8th annual nonfiction event. Nonfiction Picture Book 10 for 10 is the sister event for August's #pb10for10. <br />
<br />
<b>What is #nf10for10</b><br />
In 2010 <a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Mandy Robek</a> and I hosted <a href="http://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2010/07/august-10-for-10-picture-book-event.html">our first picture book event</a>. In 2013, <a href="http://juliebalen.weebly.com/">Julie Balen</a> suggested we add a nonfiction picture book event that worked the same. Participants choose 10 - well, usually 10 (they're a crafty bunch) - nonfiction picture books to share. <br />
<br />
On the day of the event, Monday, February 10th, we'll ask that you visit this blog, <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/">Reflect & Refine</a>, to add your nonfiction link to the conversation. <br />
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><b>What: </b>10 nonfiction picture books you can't live without.</li>
<li><b>Hashtag: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23nf10for10&src=typd" target="_blank">#nf10for10</a></li>
<li><b>Hosts: </b><a href="https://twitter.com/mandyrobek">@mandyrobek</a> (<a href="http://enjoy-embracelearning.blogspot.com/">Enjoy and Embrace Learning</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/jacbalen">@jacbalen</a> (<a href="https://jacbalen.wordpress.com/">Connecting to Learn</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/CathyMere">@cathymere</a> (you're here)</li>
<li><b>Who: </b>Anyone interested --- educators, media specialists, librarians, parents, and book lovers. </li>
<li><b>When: </b>Monday, February 10th</li>
<li><b>Where: </b>All posts for 2020 will be linked here at <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/">Reflect & Refine</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
So....<br />
<br />
Join us!<br />
<br />
Start sorting through your collections to find your favorite titles and join us on February 10th as we each share 10 nonfiction picture books we just can't live without. Feel free to grab the #nf10for10 button and spread the word.<br />
<br />
I guess I better get busy. I only have a few days to pull together my titles. Whew! I guess I better get busy. </div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-51667660759285477812020-01-05T08:47:00.002-05:002020-01-05T08:47:32.010-05:00Week One: 100 Days of Notebooking #100daysofnotebooking<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="color: blue;">"Writers collect. They collect random inspiration - things they notice and conversations they overhear. They collect around a single idea when beginning a project. They also collect possibilities for revision. They collect ideas for future projects. And they collect bits and pieces of life that may (or may not) have significance." </span></i><br /><span style="color: blue;"> -</span><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">Ruth Ayres, Enticing Hard to Reach Writers, p. 89.</span></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
It all started with a tweet....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHUYgk1_5bM8QhWe8tIxDu0w6jm3BkugVRSzmAOw3h9jKsvzUBZ0sowFW0l4XTsRFC_EXY_sTiiKqgi5_AgqXnIUFnljMMDWjTXeZwtSKuU7e5Tv2syeDeuGKHE5gdENvJG1yXzuvxx4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-05+at+8.33.03+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="1216" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHUYgk1_5bM8QhWe8tIxDu0w6jm3BkugVRSzmAOw3h9jKsvzUBZ0sowFW0l4XTsRFC_EXY_sTiiKqgi5_AgqXnIUFnljMMDWjTXeZwtSKuU7e5Tv2syeDeuGKHE5gdENvJG1yXzuvxx4/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-01-05+at+8.33.03+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In the age of digital, my writer's notebook has certainly been something I've neglected. When an idea strikes, it's easy to open the blog or document where I want to write. Going directly to drafting instead of my notebook likely leads to writing that doesn't have the depth it could have. I suppose many ideas don't percolate long enough. Digitally, I often use Google Keep, Voice Recorder, or my notes app to do some planning, but it still isn't the same so I've been thinking about my notebook for awhile. <br />
<br />
Then I saw Michell's tweet. Her tweet to took me to <a href="http://www.michellehaseltine.com/100daysofnotebooking/what-is-it">her post</a>. Her post led me to a plan. The plan led me to a community. <br />
<br />
So for the next 100 days I'll be opening my notebook. I've kept my goal for this time pretty simple: one word. Basically all I have to do is open the book, put my pen to the paper, and get down one word. I've even already told myself it could be adding one artifact. It's just one. One attempt. Of course, I know myself well enough to know most days it will be more than that, but I know I'll need to permission to step back when I need to without giving up. It's a notebook, it's supposed to be simple. <br />
<br />
If you would have loved to join, but are worried you're too late, the way I see it all you have to do is write about six words to catch up. That's just a really sentence. Ha! So go ahead, pull out your notebook (or go buy one), and jump in with us. <br />
<br />
<br />Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-83798213188809645372019-11-10T09:58:00.000-05:002019-11-10T09:58:17.696-05:00Conversations Around Research: Let's CrowdSource (Share What You Know)<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Disclaimer:</b> Before you read this, please know this is my interpretation of what I heard. While I will give credit to the people who made me consider this, my interpretation may not exactly match their true point.</span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Please comment to join the conversation: </u></b><span style="background-color: yellow;"><b>What I most want from this post is for everyone to share who the researchers are they follow and what are the publications that help them to find good research? </b> </span>Who are the people who read a lot of literacy research and share it (with citing not just synthesis....I want people who share their sources not just their opinions)? I'm going to start with a little intro to take you to how I got to my questions, but most importantly I want your thinking around the questions I ask. </span></i><br />
<br />
This morning, I woke up early to watch (for the fourth time), <i><a href="https://ila.digitellinc.com/ila/live/6/page/44">What Research Really Says About the Teaching of Reading - and Why That Still Matters</a>, </i>which is still available to members of the International Reading Association. The talk features literacy researchers P. David Pearson, Nell Duke, Sonia Cabell, and Gwendolyn McMillon. (Thank you, ILA, for live-streaming during your conference and keeping this available to members. I could go on for days about that, but I must move to point.)<br />
<br />
First of all, I'm going to admit to being a huge fan of Nell Duke. I first saw her at the National Reading Recovery Conference in Columbus, Ohio. I've never seen anyone who could talk with such ease and clarity about research in a way that makes such sense to me (and to be able to throw in the occasional one-liner to make the audience laugh). In that session, she shared seven studies with the audience for consideration in practice. When I saw her name on a panel about research during the ILA Conference, I had to sign up. I was not disappointed by Nell - or the group. <br />
<br />
Let's be honest, it's a hot time in literacy. I'm a little saddened by the <i>this or that</i> stance people are taking. (To be clear, I don't think the "all this" or the "all that" camp is doing us any good. Additionally, I was going to say educators but, let's be honest, it isn't always educators leading this charge.) The truth is, we'd all be a lot better off if we could step back for a minute and ask ourselves what we could learn. You see, none of this conversation is without a bit of truth. Yet, the problem has always been that we tend to take a this or that approach to teaching young children when in truth it is a <i>this AND that</i> approach that matters. I always wonder what we could learn from each other that would make the work we do with children better if we'd all sit down in the middle. If there was one answer to teaching children to read, the debate would have ended long ago, but children are different and answers are complex. (Sorry, stepping off my soapbox to get to my point.) <br />
<br />
I'm going to simplify a few points made by Nell Duke as she talked about the research that I've taken to heart and the reason I am writing this post. <br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><i><b>Beware confirmation bias! </b></i> For me this means two things. The first and most important is that I am aware of the bias I have in the teaching of literacy and listen carefully to alternate points. I (We) must remain open to alternate points-of-view. Additionally, I try to remind myself that often the person across from me has their own bias. What are the ways to discuss important topics with someone who comes from a different point of view?</li>
<li><b><i>Literacy teaching is complex. </i></b> Nell makes the analogy (that I won't do justice to here) that a doctor will tell you to eat healthy foods, exercise, reduce stress and get plenty of sleep in considering your wellness. She won't just tell you one of those things (at 50.33). What I especially like about this analogy is that I know my doctor would focus their attention on the part of my health I'm not being as attentive to each day while not letting me forget the others. The same is true in our teaching of literacy. </li>
<li><b style="font-style: italic;">Know the research. </b>"When it comes to thinking about evidence based practice...the best source for understanding what the evidence says is either the studies themselves...[or] people who regularly read research in research journals," reminds Nell Duke. I've been trying to work on this for a bit now. I want to know the research that supports my beliefs, but also to dig into the research of the ideas that bump up against what I know. This, however, isn't easy. As practitioners, we don't have access to many of the publications that researchers and scholars can access.</li>
</ol>
<div>
With that in mind, I'm going to share a few of the people I follow who seem to lead me to strong research and the publications that also push me in that direction. I will be transparent about the cost of those publications. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Researchers/Scholars/Educators I follow that lead me to the research:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Dr. Nell Duke: Nell doesn't share as much as I wish she did, but she is quite thoughtful in the studies she shares. Honestly, I still haven't figured out exactly what her belief system is as she seems to remain so unbiased in her work. </li>
<li>Dr. Mary Howard: It isn't hard to figure out the bias of Dr. Mary Howard; it's best practices for children. She is transparent about this bias, but what I do love about what she shares is that she always takes you back to the research to support these beliefs. I have found many great research sources thanks to a blog/article/podcast she has shared. </li>
<li>Donalyn Miller: Donalyn is all about getting books into the hands of readers. However, she is also good about sharing the research that supports her beliefs. I like to keep an eye on the locations of her sources as this often leads me to new research. </li>
<li>Larry Ferlazzo: Larry Felazzo posts several times a week (maybe every day?) and curates collections around important literacy topics. I especially appreciate his work in supporting English language learners. His posts often move me toward recent research. </li>
<li>I tried really hard to get to 5, but I couldn't. I have a few that could maybe go here, but they didn't seem to consistently take me to research. Yikes! I need to get busy finding these people. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><i>Who are the researchers/scholars/educators that continually lead you to research of evidence based literacy practices? </i></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
Sites/Publications that lead me to research:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://ila.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/19362714">The Reading Teacher:</a> ($$) This journal often shares articles that lead me to the research as most of the references given in articles of interest share more of the evidence behind the practice.</li>
<li><a href="https://ila.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/19362722">Reading Research Quarterly: </a> ($$) More than other journals to which I subscribe, this one takes me closer to the actual research that was conducted. The articles dig into the studies and give a bigger picture of the work that was done and the implications. </li>
<li><a href="https://scholar.google.com/">Google Scholar: </a> Thank you, Nell Duke, for sharing this gathering space of research. It's helped a bit. </li>
<li><a href="https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/FWW/Results?filters=,Literacy">What Works Clearinghouse</a>: This is often one of the first stops in my search for evidence based practices in literacy. </li>
<li>Again, four seems the number. (I really prefer lists of 3, 5, 7, or 10....lol.)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="background-color: yellow;">My hope is that you will share the researchers/scholars/educators you follow who lead you to strong research (especially those that can do so without bias) and the sites/publications you follow.</span></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My final wonder today is why it is so hard for practitioners to access research. Perhaps one of you know the secret to accessing research without cost. I have truly considered going back to our university to take a course so I can once again access research. If I'm a teacher in the field, doesn't it make sense that I should be able to access this research with greater ease? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I digress. My purpose in writing this post is truly to start a conversation so while commenting is pretty out these days, I do hope you will leave a comment to share what you know. That being said, this is not a space for this or that conversation so I will delete any comments that go into a rant about this or that. I truly want to know the best people and places that share information with educators about the evidence based practices in the teaching of literacy. </div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-7400464335664522192019-10-27T08:28:00.000-04:002019-10-27T08:28:21.780-04:00Deadlines, Challenges, and Other Writing Truths<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDXITdKgypz4u9r2EnB3eqNGBaCa-DM31ikm6lAMgT-667D6UB2FNZIWii1xHEu2NO4NNlRN7rCzMbBg3PJeUu09zRnTQtDu5m_d-r5QncD012eTj4NYrrMXAhTUD3Zzg6NPDqX4yn8k/s1600/nick-morrison-325805-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDXITdKgypz4u9r2EnB3eqNGBaCa-DM31ikm6lAMgT-667D6UB2FNZIWii1xHEu2NO4NNlRN7rCzMbBg3PJeUu09zRnTQtDu5m_d-r5QncD012eTj4NYrrMXAhTUD3Zzg6NPDqX4yn8k/s200/nick-morrison-325805-unsplash.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The deadline loomed.<br />
<br />
That morning I awoke trying to find the article I would submit for our writing group. It was to be submitted that evening. I'd had two weeks to write the article (honestly more), but I had not produced a word. <br />
<br />
Here I sat with a deadline and nothing. I'd try rereading old pieces for revision, but none of them felt right. I tried starting a few new pieces and none of them took off. <br />
<br />
Of course, the challenge wasn't the deadline as much as it was the writing. I know the problem. I just haven't been writing as much as I usually do.<br />
<br />
Writing is harder when I'm not writing regularly, I find. I know this, but I have to keep reteaching myself this lesson. Because calendars. Because time. Because work. Because distraction. Because excuses. <br />
<br />
When I got home that evening, the clock was ticking toward the deadline. I had to do something. <br />
<br />
Tick, tock. Tick, tock. Tick, tock.<br />
<br />
Once again, I wrestled through a few older articles I had in my drafts folder, but they just weren't going anywhere. Finally I decided the clock was running out, I had to write about where my feet were right now. I started a draft that was related to some work I was currently doing. Still. Every. Word. Was. Hard. <br />
<br />
That's the challenge of not writing regularly. It's like exercise. The less you do it, the harder it is. <br />
<br />
I've sworn myself back to some regular writing, but I can't help but wonder about the writers in our classrooms. Do they have the daily time to write? Do they have the time to play in their words? Do they have time to write the really bad stuff that hides the gems we can tease out? <br />
<br />
When we aren't writing regularly, our young writers can struggle to get words onto a page. If we aren't writing regularly, we can find ourselves trying to push them through their struggle by giving them graphic organizers and strict guidelines for pieces. We can find ourselves wondering where their passion is in their writing, where the voice is hiding, why they struggle so much to write. <br />
<br />
Time isn't the solution to strengthening our writing, but it certainly is the first required step. <br />
<br />
I didn't quite make the deadline, but I wasn't far behind. (Yeah, I need an occasional deadline to push myself forward.)<br />
<br />
It did remind me that the best way to make writing easier is to write often. <br />
<br />
So here I am. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-34573227468586328642019-10-10T06:11:00.000-04:002019-10-10T06:11:11.760-04:00Three for Your Library: Be Brave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mBfDFQ1L-X54K3gJ0Rf-neUv6xNExtkUKng8L5_9OrUawaTYXI5kq3h5fx60C0clXZOhb2uEokvhyphenhyphenUHmswQe8Zwh3afxxQc86zUEpbwFYpt0U6Z_PQDLIBRaQFQFfGvtoYpRgFuB5oU/s1600/Twenty+One.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mBfDFQ1L-X54K3gJ0Rf-neUv6xNExtkUKng8L5_9OrUawaTYXI5kq3h5fx60C0clXZOhb2uEokvhyphenhyphenUHmswQe8Zwh3afxxQc86zUEpbwFYpt0U6Z_PQDLIBRaQFQFfGvtoYpRgFuB5oU/s200/Twenty+One.jpg" width="142" /></a></div>
Some days we are our own worst enemies. The messages we tell ourselves can be the very thing that holds us back. Some days the most important thing we can do is show up. How do we push ourselves through these hard days? How do we stand up and step forward? <br />
<br />
In our classrooms, we work to help our learners be fearless. There's power in taking risks and pushing through the hard parts of our day. These three titles will help students to find ways to be brave. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41v08R958hL._SX397_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="399" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41v08R958hL._SX397_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Molly-Brooke-Boynton-Hughes/dp/1452161003/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=brave+molly&qid=1570150460&sr=8-1">Brave Molly</a> by Brooke Boynton-Hughes<br />
<br />
If you love wordless picture books, you'll love <i>Brave Molly</i>. The story begins as Molly is working to draw a picture of a shadowy figure. Molly sees some kids outside and decides to go out to where they are. The shadowy figure seems to follow her. As she gets closer to the kids, they walk away. The boy leaves a book behind. Molly heads through the woods with the book in her backpack and the shadowy figure close behind. Molly decides to be brave and push on. Will she ever get rid of the shadow that follows her? <br />
<br />
<i><u>The Way You Might Use It:</u></i><br />
<i>Community Conversations: </i>Being brave, doing the right thing, taking care of one another and the power of friendship are all certainly topics of conversation this book might inspire. <br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Anchor Text: </i>We learn a lot about this character across the story. Even though there are no words, there is plenty of room to talk about what this is like. The book also provides some great opportunities to wonder together about what the shadow represents (or even if it is real), her motivation in getting the book to the boy, and how the author wanted us to feel (and the decisions made to accomplish that). <br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Mentor Text: </i>The author/illustrator moved between panels, single page illustrations, and double page spreads. The panels are used to move us through time quickly. The author/illustrated used changes in color to help create mood and portray the way the character might be feeling. Young writers might find ways to try these craft moves in their own writing. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YNPoa9hIL._SY387_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="499" height="155" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YNPoa9hIL._SY387_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Enough-Two-Olive-Story/dp/1250127483/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=brave+enough+for+two&qid=1570150338&sr=8-1">Brave Enough for Two</a> by Jonathon Voss<br />
<br />
Sometimes the best way to get through hard times is to have a friend by your side. Olive likes the adventures in stories, but she doesn't feel brave enough to tackle these adventures in real life. However, with Hoot by her side, Olive finds the strength to try things she finds a bit scary. This story illustrates the way hard things can be easier with a friend by your side. <br />
<br />
<i><u>The Way You Might Use It</u></i><br />
<i>Community Conversations: </i>This book could help communities talk about the things that are hard for us to do or times we've been trying something a bit scary. Kids have many experiences that require them to be brave such as learning to ride a bike, playing a new sport, or going into the basement to get something for their mom. There is also some space to talk about how we can take care of each other and help our friends through the hard parts of our day from working on a hard math problem, digging into a science inquiry, or crossing the monkey bars for the first time. <br />
<br />
<i>Anchor Text: </i>This book would support conversations about how characters change across time. It also demonstrates the way we can make inferences about characters based upon dialogue. <br />
<br />
<i>Mentor Text: </i>This cumulative text gives young authors ways to think about adding multiple events to a story to help illustrate a point and clarify the message. The use of dialogue might also help young writers think through the ways the authors carefully select conversations that help us to learn more about the character. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51qw-kpO1GL._SY498_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51qw-kpO1GL._SY498_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/When-You-Brave-Zietlow-Miller/dp/0316392529/ref=pd_sbs_14_2/145-8148098-4206920?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0316392529&pd_rd_r=0abfa307-c98a-4041-9fc5-88236245e84f&pd_rd_w=CJRPG&pd_rd_wg=rdCkg&pf_rd_p=d66372fe-68a6-48a3-90ec-41d7f64212be&pf_rd_r=R93DFBQ691AVDPRFM79E&psc=1&refRID=R93DFBQ691AVDPRFM79E">When You Are Brave</a> by Pat Zielow Miller and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler<br />
<br />
Certainly kids today have many reasons they have to be brave. In this story, the character's family is moving to a new place that seems far from where they had been. The character is uneasy and feels very alone as she works to take a strong step forward. In this book, the author shares some ways we can find our courage in the hardest of times. While there is much to love about the story, the illustrations really call readers back again and again. <br />
<br />
<i>Community Conversations: </i>Students will be able to identify the times the author shares that we have to be brave. Communities can begin a conversation about the way they work through hard times and find their courage. <br />
<br />
<i>Anchor Text: </i>You really can't have a book about being brave without having ways to talk about the character. How do we know how the character feels? What clues did the author and illustrator give us? <br />
<br />
<i>Mentor Text: </i>Young writers can have much conversation about the lead in this book. The author uses repetitive stems to strengthen the message. The author begins, "Some days when everything around you seems scary...you have to be brave. Brave as....". The author does this in other places in the book as well as uses changes in sentence length to change the pace of the reading. How does this impact the message? This book might inspire some brave writing. <br />
<br />Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-31434436864088215922019-10-01T17:23:00.000-04:002019-10-01T17:23:36.536-04:00Teaching for Independence: The Power of the Practice Page<br />
Recently, I used a video example of a small group writing lesson during guided reading. The students were writing about their reading during the lesson. Each student had their own blank book to use when writing about reading. Students began by rereading their last piece of writing, turned the page and started to write about the book they had just read with their teacher. A lot happened in less than five minutes. As the students wrote independently, the teacher supported each in writing. It was a small group of children so the teacher was able to easily support each writer as they composed and wrote their short piece about their reading. <br />
<br />
After watching the video, our group discussed ways we might make our students more independent in this guided writing situation. What are the strategies we might teach these writers that they could carry into their independent writing? We talked about wait time. We talked about small changes in language and prompting. We talked about ways we might help students to better self-monitor. <br />
<br />
For me, using a practice page is one way to teach writers strategies they can carry into their independent writing. Using a practice page is something I learned when teaching Reading Recovery years ago. It gives students the opportunity to build high frequency word knowledge, develop knowledge of the way words work, and creates a space for writers to ____.<br />
<br />
<b>Here are three ways I like to use a practice page:</b><br />
<i><b>Practice High-Frequency Words:</b> </i> High-frequency words do not follow typical spelling patterns which can make them tricky for students. They are also words used often so I want students to know them well. They need to be able to write them quickly as it frees up their attention for composition and the writing of other words. When students write these words incorrectly in their writing, the practice page can be used to write the word correctly 3-5 times. I ask students to write the word, then we cover it to see if they can write it without seeing it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFj1yN4l_gSjlVbhY-mh5uEblKyrbWRUOXVyAbZIz8UU1rVg5lJorUeocJYXYzj0MeovhNxC3H6Bjf7If-ItO0i6tb-gAeHMbqXQP24mI0mmUkFbPEe1nsycoDO96csAAKA0K7gpcqDw/s1600/IMG_0102-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1112" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFj1yN4l_gSjlVbhY-mh5uEblKyrbWRUOXVyAbZIz8UU1rVg5lJorUeocJYXYzj0MeovhNxC3H6Bjf7If-ItO0i6tb-gAeHMbqXQP24mI0mmUkFbPEe1nsycoDO96csAAKA0K7gpcqDw/s200/IMG_0102-2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i><b>Elkonin Boxes: </b></i> When working with students in guided writing, they often come to words they haven't written before. When I notice them having difficulty writing a new word, I can draw Elkonin boxes on the page to help them segment the sounds in the word. In Elkonin boxes the child listens for the sounds that would be in each box. There is a progression of teaching that gets students ready to use Elkonin boxes and ways to adjust them as students try to spell words of increasing difficulty. I most like to use these when I see students trying to write a word that fits word features we have been learning. (Here's a <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/pvb-product-images/media/literacy-wings-resources/sound_boxes.pdf">simple explanation of Elkonin boxes</a> from Pioneer Valley.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7wFUL0PFiUqRXiLMtUVrhkFQX1qA_eVxMRzr2FNsmySl_2PYJvpyOl9V0A_3HdDEUAaE2uswDxXwfsaYwIvK1T40hRNBH2qzQhga1IUnF3eHwxqrqJNe__8Tvsb9QzxSLuYoT_OjfOQ/s1600/IMG_0099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1426" data-original-width="1125" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7wFUL0PFiUqRXiLMtUVrhkFQX1qA_eVxMRzr2FNsmySl_2PYJvpyOl9V0A_3HdDEUAaE2uswDxXwfsaYwIvK1T40hRNBH2qzQhga1IUnF3eHwxqrqJNe__8Tvsb9QzxSLuYoT_OjfOQ/s200/IMG_0099.jpg" width="157" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><i>Try It: </i> </b>Helping students to monitor their own writing helps them make faster gains. Students often know when they are having difficulty writing a word. I teach students to use the practice page when they are unsure how to write a word. When a word seems tricky, writers go to the practice page and give it a try. Students learn to try to the word three times when they are unsure of the spelling. This is fascinating. If I see the correct the word, I ask them to pick the one they think is right. Most times they know. If none of the attempts are correct, we work to figure out the word together. This page can tell me a lot about what learners know about words. A child who randomly attempts different spellings is of greater concern than one who seems to know which part of the word is causing challenge. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsmQQyj9Da9qiA1Lw9IZIkRXIGWNlXMlpS_nbZC2dbNbOvfSybGUHaJ9ZXUif7fYcgSyowxORC9ipYWqpnnZtzOUgfevM0yDdtjtaIggiQoYLqg1vlEKpM0TXFDUGvjeunF41xfp-fww/s1600/IMG_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1124" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsmQQyj9Da9qiA1Lw9IZIkRXIGWNlXMlpS_nbZC2dbNbOvfSybGUHaJ9ZXUif7fYcgSyowxORC9ipYWqpnnZtzOUgfevM0yDdtjtaIggiQoYLqg1vlEKpM0TXFDUGvjeunF41xfp-fww/s200/IMG_0106.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://choiceliteracy.com/article/small-group-writing-steps-for-success/">Small-Group Writing: Steps for Success</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://choiceliteracy.com/article/building-word-learning-routines/">Building Word Learning Routines</a>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-60718416578137395282019-09-15T08:50:00.001-04:002019-09-15T08:50:13.334-04:00More Lessons Learned: The Story IS Beyond the Numbers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHrRTnWzBMSWXNh9MiBxlTLwUsVsdestLl8BktOKtpG2MldPFn34_5ZRxaKwiTQd3IheaARp_0uyjmWZUlsptKxDw5MrRc85SARSJunc9cimdHl2tIU9iN83TSAfFw9uqddYIaYviry8/s1600/IMG_7493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1600" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHrRTnWzBMSWXNh9MiBxlTLwUsVsdestLl8BktOKtpG2MldPFn34_5ZRxaKwiTQd3IheaARp_0uyjmWZUlsptKxDw5MrRc85SARSJunc9cimdHl2tIU9iN83TSAfFw9uqddYIaYviry8/s200/IMG_7493.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
A few weeks ago, we received an energy report from our electric company. It wasn't great news. It seems we are among the highest energy users on our road. (You might have read, <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/2019/08/lesson-learned-finding-celebrations.html">Lessons Learned: Finding the Celebrations</a>)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So what? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's what I found myself asking as I looked at the report, "So what?". Yes, we apparently are among the highest energy users in our neighborhood, but every time I look at the report I honestly am a bit frustrated. The report doesn't help me to know anything about why we are using so much energy. There are three adults in the house, but that doesn't help me to figure out how much energy we are using. Is it the air conditioner? It is rather old and likely inefficient. Our appliances? Our hot water tank? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There's really no way to improve our energy use without more information. Is there a way to measure the usage of particular items using electricity? Yes, we can keep our lights turned off a bit more, unplug cords not in use, and turn the thermostat a bit, but I doubt that will make much of a dent in our usage. How do we know what to change to use less energy? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As I reflect on the information sent from the electric company about our energy use, I can't help but think about the connections to education. In our schools and classrooms we can easily be in the same place as we look at the assessment information we collect. While numbers might help us to find big picture strengths and challenges or ask questions to help us learn more, they can also be a big "so what?" if we aren't willing to dig for the story beyond the numbers. If we aren't careful we can let the numbers rule our decision making in a "sky is falling" kind of way. However, if instead of just looking at the numbers we dig a bit deeper, we can make intentional decisions to support next steps for the learners in our classrooms. </div>
<div>
<br />
Here are a few ways to get beyond the "so what" of our beginning of the year assessment information:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Look for Patterns: </b> I've always found it useful to collect assessment information on some kind of chart. This allows me to take a quick glance across different parts of the information I have collected to see if I note any patterns across our class. For example, in our benchmark reading assessment I can look at scores for within, beyond, and about comprehension to see if there is a pattern to strengths and challenges. I can take a look across accuracy, self-correction and fluency scores to note any connections across students.</li>
<li><b>Find the Story: </b> Once I have the general view of my students, I usually take a bit of time to sort the assessments into three piles: strong, average, and needs support (to simplify). For example, if I note a pattern in thinking beyond the text, I might take the assessments and look specifically at student responses in this part of the assessment. I'm looking for the story: the story of what they seem to have under control and what might help to strengthen their understanding. </li>
<li><b>Dig into Daily Learning: </b> As I listen to conversations in mini-lessons, work with small groups, and sit beside learners as I confer, I'm trying to dig more into the story. What truths do I see that match what I learned from assessment? What seems to be disconnected? What are our next steps? </li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
I don't know how I'm going to figure out ways to improve our energy use. I guess I'll look for articles that talk about typical energy wasters or dig to see if there is some way to measure usage of particular household items. I'm not really sure the data sent by the electrical company does much to change the way we live. Hopefully, in our classrooms, we can find ways to dig to get the story that <i>IS</i> beyond the numbers.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-50352924825414837162019-09-11T20:31:00.000-04:002019-09-11T20:31:14.144-04:00Three for Your Library: Books to Make You LOLThere are so many great picture books in the world these days. Sometimes I read a book and wonder what kids will think of it. There have been some pretty serious books published that are sure to inspire great conversation. Of course, sometimes it's just fun to have a read aloud that makes everyone laugh. I decided to check my collection for some books that are sure to make everyone laugh out loud.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Three Books to Make You Laugh</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51azrkhPGmL._SX361_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="363" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51azrkhPGmL._SX361_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ballet-Cat-Dance-Underpants/dp/1484713796/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XQ4WKZFF1VGR&keywords=ballet+cat+dance+dance+underpants&qid=1568243776&s=gateway&sprefix=ballet+cat+dance+%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1">Dance! Dance! Underpants! </a> by Bob Shea</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let's be honest, just the title will have everyone laughing. Poor Ballet Cat can't get Butter Bear to dance. Every time Ballet Cat thinks Butter Bear is ready to dance something gets in the way. Students will love the back and forth between these two characters --- and the real reason Butter Bear just can't dance. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51DPtXdYf1L._SX384_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="386" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51DPtXdYf1L._SX384_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="154" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bear-Came-Along-Richard-Morris/dp/0316464473/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=bear+came+along&qid=1568247354&sr=8-1">Bear Came Along</a> by Richard T. Morris<br />
<br />
This book will make a fun read aloud. Kids will love the way one thing leads to another in this story where Bear comes to the river and soon finds himself in one adventure after another. This circular text is sure to make everyone laugh as Bear and his friends find themselves in quite a predicament. <br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/5189FNnP9DL._SX383_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="385" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/5189FNnP9DL._SX383_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brief-Thief-Micha%C3%ABl-Escoffier/dp/1592701310/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=brief+thief&qid=1568246700&sr=8-1">Brief Thief</a> by Michael Escoffier and Kris Di Giancomo</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This book was shared with me by one of literacy coaches, Andrea Waselko, and I can't believe I hadn't seen it. It is hilarious! Leon the Lizard takes a quick trip to the bathroom only to realize he doesn't have a toilet paper. What's a lizard to do? He finds some old underwear close by, but soon what he thinks is his "conscience" tells him to get those cleaned up. You won't believe what happens next? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are a few other favorite books to make them laugh. Have a favorite? Please share it in the comments.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="240" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/cathymerebooks/laugh-out-loud/"></a>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5519338898878388762.post-83399967362928936182019-09-10T06:04:00.003-04:002019-09-10T06:04:55.653-04:00Balancing Assessment in the First Weeks <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1C8pNL7FhuJF3JTsAuHpioRYzuNhF3hSuu1S3dykcZeHniKXIhP4X7ojIvCG2lBk2a4sPgNf7mgQK865Wr5hExRszdxbleYN7XZnsE_OBx3SRNPbY2DUwpCoV2wOFyWtqI8e9K2IuEk/s1600/IMG_C064EA443D90-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1C8pNL7FhuJF3JTsAuHpioRYzuNhF3hSuu1S3dykcZeHniKXIhP4X7ojIvCG2lBk2a4sPgNf7mgQK865Wr5hExRszdxbleYN7XZnsE_OBx3SRNPbY2DUwpCoV2wOFyWtqI8e9K2IuEk/s200/IMG_C064EA443D90-1.jpeg" width="112" /></a></div>
The first six weeks of school are among my favorite. It's the time we get to weave our communities together with strong thread to support our work across the year. It's the time we can get to know each one of the children who walks through our door. It's the time that we can celebrate what our learners already know. It's <a href="https://reflectandrefine.blogspot.com/search?q=roaming+in+the+known">a time to observe</a> what makes each of them tick. <br />
<br />
In the first six weeks of school, we start to learn what matters to each of our students. We get to know their families and their preferences. We also begin to get to know them as learners. For me, I like to take the first two weeks to just get to know them. I'm focused on relationship and building a strong community. At the end of the two weeks, I often begin to take a look at spring assessment information for my students. Then I like to spend the next weeks determining if students are in about the same place they ended the previous year, if they've continued to build on their learning across the summer, or if they might need a bit of support to get them back to where they ended the year (this doesn't usually take long). In these first weeks, I work to help students become solid in what it is they know so we can use those foundational strengths to grow as the year continues.<br />
<br />
The beginning of the year also brings time for more formal assessment. Our districts often have assessments that are required for all students. Additionally, we often have assessments we like to use alongside our daily observations to learn more information about what our learners know. It becomes easy to look at the list of assessments and want to get them checked off. It is during these first busy weeks that I push myself to keep THE WHY in front of assessments. Over the years, I found some ways to help to manage assessment alongside the important first steps I want our community to take together. <br />
<br />
<b>Managing the Busyness of Assessment </b><br />
<ul>
<li><u>Weave Assessment into Our Workshop:</u> Learning to weave assessment into my workshop was a game changer for me. In the first weeks, our learning community works to establish routines that will free us up to do important work. While this is my priority, it is easy to weave a few assessments into each day's workshop. For example, our district asks that we give our students Hearing and Recording Sounds in Words. In most cases, this assessment takes 3-5 minutes with a student, but I can learn a lot sitting beside them. After our writing workshop begins, I confer with a few students and as students settle into their writing, I stop by a few students to complete this assessment. It's easy to move between assessing and conferring while still helping to set the tone for the work we will do in workshop. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><u>Plan:</u> It's easy to feel a bit overwhelmed by all that is to be done, but I've found that keeping my eye on the WHY and my focus on learning about my students helps. Instead of feeling like I have to get all of the assessments done in a day, I plan out the time I will take to complete them. For example, if I do about 3 Hearing and Recording Sounds in Words for four days a week, I can have my class done in two-three weeks. The beauty of doing them in small numbers is I always feel like I learn so much about students if I take some time to digest the time sitting beside them. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><u>Start Where You're Curious:</u> Typically I begin with the students that make me curious. Maybe I've noticed a child seems to have grown a lot over the summer or maybe I notice some disconnect between a child's reading and writing. If I've started to notice some areas of concern for a student, I will often begin with them early in the assessment cycle so that I can use the information to begin lifting their learning immediately. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><u>Complete My Own Assessment:</u> It can be easy to allow support teams to complete assessments for me, but personally I always wanted to do my own assessments. It helps me to better support my learners if I have done them myself. Often my reading support teacher wanted to assess readers she was considering. I could understand the necessity of this so I would let her complete the assessment, but I would often find a similar text do read with the student to get a true sense of their strengths and next steps. </li>
</ul>
It can be hard to take a breath with so much on our to-do lists, but the more we slow down to get to know our students in those first six weeks of school the stronger the year seems to be. As you look at all the assessments on your list, I hope you'll take a breath and begin a plan. Give yourself grace to take the time to really get to know those new learners who will be counting on you.<br />
<div>
<u><br /></u></div>
Cathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08233792477358685156noreply@blogger.com0