I have been watching the discussion and have to join in. I do a combination of things because we are Reading First. We can't do writer's workshop or spelling during reading time. I do teach strategies with the core and with read alouds. I also use The Daily 5 to help with independent reading habits. It is awesome and powerful. Students do become independent. I have flexible groups and use workstations. I think when I used to use centers, it was busy work (worksheets). Now I use Debbie Diller's workstations and make sure it is purposeful. Kids do like to be up and about. I have 8 different stations each week and it really works - kids are engaged and a lot of reading does go on. My independent reading time is separate from the 90 minute block. Writing is also separate. I do think stations work in my third grade class. There can be a lot of reading done on the computer(they can choose to read articles, or practice fluency) or at the poetry station. Even reader's theater is fun for them - as the year goes on, they will get more choice in activities.
Linda Jennifer wrote: There is nothing wrong with centers if they are done correctly, in my opinion. Kids sometimes need the movement and hands on kinds of activities. They just should not take the place of reading. They belong in another time of the day. _______________________________________________ Understand mailing list Understand@literacyworkshop.org http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/listinfo/understand_literacyworkshop.org
