This is what I love about this list and others, the ability to reflect and question and ponder. I have been really pondering about this whole topic and listening to different perspectives. Sometimes I wonder if we lose sight of the purpose of the strategies. I have always used them as a tool, not a skill. I think if I taught them as a skill I would be interested in seeing them apply it more, but it being a tool, I can only watch to see if they use it to help them. Just like when I teach them strategies for decoding. I don't expect them to use those strategies with each and every word, or every text, I look for them to use them when needed. I do see some of the strategies help to "enjoy" the process of reading more, and absolutely to help with conversations about books. I am getting ready to present a workshop with two other teachers. They are from another school, and I was just introduced to them. As we began to plan, I stated that I would like us to begin with metacognition. They didn't want to, said it would take away from what teachers want, that they want the lessons and ideas. As I listen in on and reflect on our conversation here, I find it even more important. Maybe that is what is missing with some teachers who are "teaching" the strategies. We forget the purpose, and forget to teach the students the purpose. As I think about what they want to present, I think they want to show the strategies as skills, not tools. I may be wrong, but it does have me wondering. I appreciate this discussion, sometimes other's thoughts clarify my own thinking. Terry/Fl/2
************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive.
