Routman Reading

1.What types of expertise do you need to develop in order to follow her advice? It is important to start by “celebrating” the student’s work as Routman explains it. It is very important to focus on the positive aspects of the student’s writing. Expressing what the child has done right is a huge part of content conferences. For example during content conferences it isn’t necessary to point out all of the editing mistakes the child has made. Pointing out the positive aspects of the child's writing will help to build the student’s confidence and self-esteem about their writing. It is important to make the student feel like their writing matters and that it’s important. 2. What professional dilemmas might you encounter as you attempt to follow her advice in your teaching context? As with any teaching strategy there will be dilemmas that will arise that we, as teachers, need to be aware of. Every student is different and every student won’t have the same reaction to the content conferences. For example some students may feel like their work is being examined or pulled a part and dissected. Students who are less confident in their work or who may not like to participate a lot may have a harder time with content conferences. This is why it is extremely important to create a comfortable and open environment in your classroom between the teacher and the students. When there is a positive learning environment, I believe students are more open to try things they haven’t before and they seem to be more confident in themselves as well. 3. How might you attempt to "finesse" or "hybridize" your literacy instruction? In my classroom I think its important to view everyone’s work as something special. Kindergarteners are working especially hard to develop their knowledge of writing but they are starting at just building letters and words. I think using students work as examples of “good writing” gives them a sense of accomplishment and confidence. At this young age it really is all about creating an environment that promotes learning and makes students feel comfortable and confident. 4. How are you developing your professional identity, building strong teacher-student relationships, constructing relevant curriculum or assessing students in meaningful and powerful ways? Each day I stand outside the classroom door greeting each student as they walk through the door. I believe student-teacher relationships are extremely important. I think that if the students respect and trust me that they will want to listen and learn from me. In order to develop meaningful lesson plans, it is crucial to get to know the students in your classroom and know what they are interested in and what academic levels the students are at in order to differentiate lessons based on student needs. I am doing my best to take into account each of my students needs and adapt lessons based on those needs.