Welcome to #G2Great@franmcveigh@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward and I are so glad you made the choice to spend some time with us discussing independence. This is what Ss want and need.
Welcome!
Welcome!
Welcome!
It's time to shine
our spotlight on
Independent Seatwork!
What a great convo this will be
with anyone who wants to Lurk!
#G2Great
Welcome #G2Great friends. We are so grateful that you are here tonight to shine one more spotlight in our series. Let’s take a fresh look at Independent Seatwork this time! Are you in?
One of the MANY thing I love most about educators is that their own learning directly linked to their commitment to kids is ALWAYS at the top of the priority heap! #G2Great
A1 Taking a closer look at independent seatwork is critical when it reflects a travesty of packets & time-wasting nothing. We must re-evaluate how we expend our time & energy. #G2Great
Great to see you Judy. Yes it’s such an important discussion because we have to put as much thought into what kids are doing on their own as we do when they’re with us. #G2Great
A1 great question btw! Ts need to look at seatwork and see that it’s meaningful and purposeful. Not just filler. Ask yourselves, “What’s the point of doing this.” What is the truly the purpose. #G2Great
A1 great question btw! Ts need to look at seatwork and see that it’s meaningful and purposeful. Not just filler. Ask yourselves, “What’s the point of doing this.” What is the truly the purpose. #G2Great
Julie Johnson joining for the 1st time from Hilliard, Ohio. I will be teaching 3rd grade literacy for half my day and literacy coaching the other half. #G2Great
A1: Because independent work is to empower Ss with what they CAN do so a closer look at what we assig is imperative.
Ask: How is this assignment/seat-work inspiring my Ss to be a better student
#g2great
A1: Independent seat work often falls into the category of “the way it’s always been done.” We need to ask ourselves how (if) this work truly showcases the thinking/learning Ss are capable of doing. #G2Great
A1 great question btw! Ts need to look at seatwork and see that it’s meaningful and purposeful. Not just filler. Ask yourselves, “What’s the point of doing this.” What is the truly the purpose. #G2Great
A1 Will what you are about to ask kids to do during independent seatwork time benefit or enrich their learning live. Then why would we even consider it? #G2Great
Roman from Ontario, Canada. Checking in late to #G2Great HS Teacher/Student Success Leader/Agent of Transformation. Getting back to some chats after a family vacation hiatus.
Independent application is such an important consideration. How can we engage kids in meaningful purposeful productive AND authentic reading and writing? #G2Great
A1: what is more authentic for students to be doing? Our instruction and activities should always be rooted in things that can be replicated in the real world #g2great
A1: What’s the destination for this? Are we filling time or providing meaningful opportunities to refine a performance we want kids to make their own? #G2Great
I was just thinking. Where else could I sit in my living room in OK all alone in the quiet and still be surrounded by friends from all across the globe? I mean really! I find that so incredibly inspiring. #G2Great
A1: 1)how are you gauging “independence”? 2)Would there be an alternative way of allowing Ss to work on growing as learners 3)is the work authentic? I know that’s 3?s, but I’m passionate about changing the mindset. #g2great
A1: Critical for teachers to remember & believe that THE most authentic form of “seatwork” we can offer is simply reading & writing...with conferring to guide & instruct the process #G2Great
A1 How is this seatwork relevant and how will it push students to deepen their learning? A second wuestion would be, how were students given a choice and a voice in their work. In a time of heavy research, we need to focus on our kids, not graphs. #g2great
A1 Independent seatwork affords us freedom to offer instructional support in small groups/one-to-one. But ALL Sts including those working independently should benefit from the experience. #G2Great
A1: I guess I define "seat work" as the things that we want to tackle with quiet, reflective thinking. It doesn't require meaningless packet work by definition. #g2great
A 2 My WHY is to develop readers, students read self-selected books. If you want students to write, let them choose topics write & offer feedback & teach craft & technique. #g2great
A1 How is this seatwork relevant and how will it push students to deepen their learning? A second wuestion would be, how were students given a choice and a voice in their work. In a time of heavy research, we need to focus on our kids, not graphs. #g2great
A1 Independent seatwork affords us freedom to offer instructional support in small groups/one-to-one. But ALL Sts including those working independently should benefit from the experience. #G2Great
Why is the greatest question we could ever ask kids. Building those text to self connections make teaching 100x easier because there is buy in #G2Great
A1: if we are using worksheets and such to keep students busy so we can do groups and 1:1, then we need to think about more meaningful things they can be doing. Like reading #g2great
A2. WHY on earth would a T ever assign "Seatwork" ala something to be checked for "busy work" creating a problem with "requiring Ss to do it and the T to check it.
#G2Great
A2 Independent seatwork allows children to apply what we’ve already taught in meaningful & productive ways. This is the WHY that should guide all choices. #G2Great
A1: Tricky waters here...this assumes that my teaching partner in this case wants to engage in dialogue about this topic.
A scaling question would work here,”on a scale of 1-5 (5 being most effective) where would you rate this work in relation to your ideal outcomes?”
#G2Great
I’m so glad you included the ownership role Kurt. Too often we see it as something we do when the real power comes from having choice and engaging kids in that process! #G2Great
A2: Used to be because the Daily 3/5 or whatever told me too... now it is to get Ss working on skills to develop as readers while I'm free to meet in 1-1 or small groups #G2Great
A2 I don’t love seat work and when I go back into the classroom I won’t be doing anything that looks or smells like seat work. Why? Because there is something better my Ss will be doing. Reading! #g2great
A2: My ‘WHY’ would be: would I want my child’s teacher to just assign busy work to my own child?!?
Me: NO
Then why do it as a teacher myself 🤔
#G2great
A2 My why is all about my kids. Why would I use any pedagogical practice? How will independent seatwork engage, enthrall, push learning for my kids? How will it let them have fun in the process and amplify their voice? If it doesn’t, then why do it? #g2great
It's true if we are strategic with independet work we can acheive so much more. I think this is true for any age. All humans want their work to matter. #G2Great
A2 My why is actually a "how".
How is the work I'm asking kids to do moving them forward in transferring reading strategy(ies) and thoughtful reader response writing? Is this work they're engaged in moving them toward being more independent readers/writers? #G2Great
A2: when I ask Ss to work independently, I offer plenty of choice...as they read/write, some will choose to reflect in written form, others will wait to talk over their reflections during conferring or SGI #G2great
A1 The seatwork has to be meaningful and intentional. My question as we begin to reflect is how can we put systems in place to build routines that allow rotation of activity, perhaps weekly, so Ss stay engaged but have variety?#G2great
A2: A balance of opportunities (independent and shared) to demonstrate what students know is reflective of how our society functions. Teamwork and individual accountability go hand in hand. #g2great
While I’m on the topic and thinking about it - many apps on iPad and other devices are flashy worksheet replacements. Please be critical consumers when choosing “technology” work for your Ss. Ensure it doesn’t just replace the worksheet. (Ok off soap box) #g2great
A2: My WHY (not) always boils down to authenticity—cookie cutter work just isn’t authentic. Independent work that is open-ended, student-driven, and incorporates choice is a much better fit. #G2Great
We’re already trending #G2Great friends. That speaks volumes about this incredibly dedicated group and your commitment to your own professional learning @franmcveigh@brennanamy@hayhurst3
A2: The "why" comes back to authenticity. It's still a work in progress for me, and often requires giving up some of that control, I crave so much. But "seatwork" in itself shouldn't be a bad word. It's the task that matters. #g2great
A2 We must redefine the role of independent seatwork. It’s not busywork, play, or trivial time-wasting pursuits. It’s meaningful authentic reinforcing reading writing & talking. PERIOD! #G2Great
We’re already trending #G2Great friends. That speaks volumes about this incredibly dedicated group and your commitment to your own professional learning @franmcveigh@brennanamy@hayhurst3
A2 My why? Is this respectful work that is not wasting valuable time that could be spent in real reading/writing/discussing pursuits that stretch kids? #G2Great
A2: My why is about choice and engagement. If kids don’t feel like it is meaningful then they will get nothing out of it. There are many ways to apply skills and strategies so why not give students options? #G2Great
Independent work should be used for lowstakes practice & preparation to work w/ the larger group. Having kids do stuff on their own gives them greater confidence when we bring it together. Also important to model by doing the work yourself. Share your mistakes with them #G2great
A2: My why is about choice and engagement. If kids don’t feel like it is meaningful then they will get nothing out of it. There are many ways to apply skills and strategies so why not give students options? #G2Great
While I’m on the topic and thinking about it - many apps on iPad and other devices are flashy worksheet replacements. Please be critical consumers when choosing “technology” work for your Ss. Ensure it doesn’t just replace the worksheet. (Ok off soap box) #g2great
A2: My why is about choice and engagement. If kids don’t feel like it is meaningful then they will get nothing out of it. There are many ways to apply skills and strategies so why not give students options? #G2Great
A3. Read the homework book from @nellkduke and @EllinKeene series.
Listen to parents is community.
Busy, not always time.
Good intentions.
Want to help.
Just complicated.
#G2Great
#G2Great
A2- I truly believe that at times teachers overcomplicate the why. If we want kids to learn and to do so independently then we need to keep it simple and ask them, what are you curious about related to "x" topic or issue. I am an advocate for no worksheets ever.
A2: Why would I go the independent route if/when my Ss can learn better working in a meaningful & dynamic grouping? I think of an activity, then decide whether to assign as independent work. #G2Great
A2:I choose not to use seat work, but instead allow students to read, write, engage in collaborative projects, play math games, etc because I believe in allowing Ss to own their learning with voice and choice. #g2great
A2 My why for SW, esp at begg of yr or begg of book clubs, is so I can meet w/small groups while rest of Ss are working on authentic independent work. This ranges frm rdg on in bk club choice bk to working on writing pc frm workshop to rdg a NF pc. for sep discussion.#G2great
A2 I have to be honest--just the word "seatwork" has a connotation for me of "please sit still and do this so I can get some important T work done." If the time is allotted for readers/writers workshop then I can't really think of any mindless "sheet work" to be done. #G2Great
Independent work should be used for lowstakes practice & preparation to work w/ the larger group. Having kids do stuff on their own gives them greater confidence when we bring it together. Also important to model by doing the work yourself. Share your mistakes with them #G2great
A2: I want my students to enjoy school, plan and simple. If they are doing real, authentic activities, not worksheets, then I know they will have more buy in. #g2great
A3 We must regularly re-examine our practices from all sides including our Sts’ voices. Parents can also help us understand their child in ways that add to our decision making. #G2Great
A3- I ask my kids for input on current practices and informally evaluate by their behavior. Are they doing the work? Is it quality? Are they talking? Do they find value in it? #G2Great
Q2 Ss need to be independent to allow teachers to meet with small groups, but allowing choice for authentic reading and writing activities keep students engaged. #g2great
A3 it’s always good to ask Ss what they think. They are the ones doing it. Also continually@look at the information you are gathering from seat work. If you can use the info to inform instruction great. If the info isn’t that great... dump it! #g2great
A2: Also, this independent work time gives Ts a chance to Shut Up (as my friend @lester_laminack says) and mingle around as a learner/facilitator in the room. Sometimes I learn more! #g2great
A3: My Math diagnostics have evolved away from independent test like activities to more open ended partner discussions. Data I gather is much richer and descriptive. Kids are less stressed. #g2great
A3: It's not an easy process but giving Ss ownership of their OWN learning is KEY. We do this by conferencing and actually listening to their needs and wants in education. THEY have the power to actually help educators improve our craft!
#g2great
A3 Students’ voices are critical in independent seatwork so choice should be a part of these experiences. Choice reading/writing can maximize their engagement. #G2Great
A3: I don’t use any skill sheets during independent reading/writing...I load the classroom with journals, miniature notepads, folders, post-its...I invite Ss to reflect in ways that feel authentic to their needs as readers/writers #G2great
Absolutely. And I think that they would benefit no matter what side of the process they are sitting on. I was just thinking that would be a perfect fishbowl activity! #G2Great
That’s an interesting view point. Never thought of it in that way! When I hear/see “seat work” I have a bad picture in mind. Seen some not great things. #g2great
A3: Flexibility and listening are so important. Asking Ss and parents how each child learns best is essential. Some may need independent seat work to reinforce learning while it pushes others away from learning. Never be afraid to tailor learning to the Ss. #G2Great
A3 Communication, communication, communication. We need to be constantly in learning conversations with our students, colleagues and parents. Let partnerships thrive and guide student learning. Together we can do so much better. #g2great
A3 #G2Great After rding @smokeylit Curious Classroom last summer, I ditched traditional morning work & offered @SaraKAhmed "soft starts" at least 3 of the 5 days. Since building a CR of readers & writers, when Ss were prepared for book clubs, I allowed them choice to read/write.
A3 Gathering feedback from kids themselves is most valuable for examining T practice. "What did we do this week that made you a better reader/writer? What suggestions do you have that we haven't tried yet in our workshop time?" #justaskthem#G2Great
A3: I did away with “morning work” after talking with students and implemented choice time in the morning where kids could read, write, build, create, collaborate. It changed the dynamic of our day. #G2Great
A3: when talking with my kids some love independent seat work. It is nice to have options to match learners. I provide many choices. Including independent work. #g2Great
A3: Flexibility and listening are so important. Asking Ss and parents how each child learns best is essential. Some may need independent seat work to reinforce learning while it pushes others away from learning. Never be afraid to tailor learning to the Ss. #G2Great
A3 Gathering feedback from kids themselves is most valuable for examining T practice. "What did we do this week that made you a better reader/writer? What suggestions do you have that we haven't tried yet in our workshop time?" #justaskthem#G2Great
A3: this is where a good evaluator could come in handy—what do you see that IS going on during independent work time? What do you think is missing? Why? Come together to discuss and tweak as needed. #g2great
A3: I wrote tangentially on this earlier today. Most (all?) Ss benefit from chance to reflect, wrestle, think about new ideas and problems quietly. "Seatwork" can provide that opportunity. Ss need choice and opportunity. We must be aware that some won't ask. #g2great
#SSlearners by @pattyvreilly has a great section that provides strategies that encourage collaboration among students. They can learn so much from each other - However, this collaboration MUST be intentional #g2great
I love just sitting back for a minute or so occasionally and letting my fingers rest on the keyboard quietly just so I can soak in the wisdom of our #G2Great family! I always feel a sense of gratitude!
Yes! This is true for everything we do as educators. We MUST know our WHY for everything we choose to do in our classrooms. Ask yourself what am I hoping to accomplish by having students do this? #G2great#KidsDeserveIt
A4. Packets and worksh*ts are NOT accountability. Kid that can do them, could do them before class. Kid struggling before class is still struggling.
NOT ALL Ss need the same "pages"
Torturous for Striving Ss.
#G2Great
I wonder if such simple methods don't fill teacher prep lecture halls? I don't recall conferring ever being broached in ELA methods. Lots of basal when I went through #g2great
I remember it well and we spent more time creating them than kids did doing them …. with little to show for it when all was said and done. YIKES! #G2Great
A4 Independent seatwork isn’t about accountability but opportunities for students to apply learning as we ensure transfer. It’s not about grading but celebrating our WHY! #G2Great
A4 taking a look at running records and anecdotal notes but also writing journals and other work samples that Ss do throughout the literacy block. Get a wide range for a wide picture! #g2great
#G2Great
I used to give homework. Now I give none. I explain to parents and students at beginning if year that I expect 100% effort in school. Time at home with family is precious and should be valued. I explain the learning in coordinating friend play after school. It works!
A3-Early in my teaching career I had some parents who felt that I wasn't giving their children enough worksheets to do. I felt a lot of pressure back then to increase the amount of skills worksheets done. This was in kindergarten 🙁. #g2great
A4 Confer, confer, confer. When you have a conversation, when you meet the needs of your kids, when you build that relationship. Kids will be accountable and passionate and engaged. That is the goal. #g2great
Agreed there is so much power in that statement Kristen. Let them unleash their thinking on the page. Show some reverence for the time to be still and thoughtful. #G2Great this is exciting.
A3 Seat work has hopefully evolved from mundane, inorganic tasks to lots of independent reading of choice w/ conversations happening in partnerships. Ss are having organic & authentic conversations about texts #g2great
A3-Early in my teaching career I had some parents who felt that I wasn't giving their children enough worksheets to do. I felt a lot of pressure back then to increase the amount of skills worksheets done. This was in kindergarten 🙁. #g2great
I had Ss organically forming writing "clubs" and working on shared stories. They looked fwd to this time to build community and were strengthening writing skills w/o nec knowing it! Win win! #G2Great
In reply to
@MelanieMeehan1, @jdepler2, @smokeylit, @FletcherRalph, @MrsSokolowski
A4: Student agency, efficacy, and goal-setting provides accountability. WHen they understand learning targets and can provide evidence, that's accountability! #g2great
A2 Ts should be asking why are we doing this. If they can do worksheets, they don’t need it. If they can’t do worksheets, they don’t need it either. #G2Great
I remember early on in college someone (honestly don’t know who) told me that seatwork was awesome because you can answer emails and send attendance etc without kids bugging you. So I’ve always had a wrong definition in my mind. Even before I taught. #g2great
In reply to
@MelanieMeehan1, @jdsniadecki, @lester_laminack
A4: Independent work shouldn’t be about a grade book entry, but about creating authentic ways to apply learning. Accountability is to our students, not a data point. #G2Great
A4: accountability doesn't have to be in association. Ss can collaborate in groups and each Ss can be assign a part and learn how to actually be part of a group
Isn't it how we do it as adults?!? We work TOGETHER!
#g2great
A4- Accountability should be established within your classroom culture. When I do things like Socratic Seminar, the Ss monitor their own contributions informally and know about each others. When they feel they need to, they encourage others to participate and contribute #G2Great
A4 If kidwatching/conferring are a priority, we always know kids are engaged in the process. Accountability is about compliance. Responsibility is about kids. #G2Great
I remember early on in college someone (honestly don’t know who) told me that seatwork was awesome because you can answer emails and send attendance etc without kids bugging you. So I’ve always had a wrong definition in my mind. Even before I taught. #g2great
In reply to
@MelanieMeehan1, @jdsniadecki, @lester_laminack
A4: My Ss are held accountable through discussion...their ability to choose books, sustain their reading and speak in ways that show me they’re thinking, inferring & finding JOY in the process #G2great
A2Why? We owe it to our amazing, thinking, feeling, and inquisitive learners to evaluate our use of seatwork. Does the work honor our S.? Do they have a driving voice in the process? Does it build agency? #G2Great
That’s a great question John. So many places where teacher training is AMAZING and others where it’s not. I hate that educators have to get the luck of the draw. #G2Great
I wonder if such simple methods don't fill teacher prep lecture halls? I don't recall conferring ever being broached in ELA methods. Lots of basal when I went through #g2great
A3: While they work, I check who need support/disengaged. I talk to them & ask how I can help. This helps me see if the SW is way over their head or if there are any misconceptions. #G2Great
Sometimes we confuse “accountability” with “completion.” We know Ss are accountable for their work when they show effort, can explain what/why, and are growing. Conferring gets to the heart of all of those. #G2Great
A4: most definitely, conferring with readers/Ss. One to one. I can’t look you in the eye and disappoint them and vice versa. Plus...since it’s one to one, there’s no public humiliation. We work together to get the learning done. Set new goals to make it happen. #g2great
A4 If kidwatching/conferring are a priority, we always know kids are engaged in the process. Accountability is about compliance. Responsibility is about kids. #G2Great
A4 Offer time after independent seatwork for kids to share their efforts through meaningful dialogue. This allows you to be a fly on the wall for amazing formative assessment. #G2Great
A4 #G2Great Daily Status of the class for reading and conferring w/Ss on a schedule for reading and writing weekly is the BEST way I know to make Ss accountable. Those who are falling short on nightly reading receive a small notation on weekly progress report going home Fridays.
Love that question Jackie! I’d also add that seat work can be joyful (ie authentic reading and writing) and still be incredibly productive too. #G2Great
A3 I cringe when I think back to the days when I had Ss use some recess time to complete unfinished worksheets that really were pointless to begin wth. We all have our own cringe worthy teacher mistakes though. Right? #g2great
A4 I appreciate what @TraceyAnanmalay said earlier, "Most (all?) Ss benefit from chance to reflect, wrestle, think about new ideas and problems quietly. "Seatwork" can provide that opportunity. Ss need choice and opportunity." #agree#G2Great
A3 I cringe when I think back to the days when I had Ss use some recess time to complete unfinished worksheets that really were pointless to begin wth. We all have our own cringe worthy teacher mistakes though. Right? #g2great
A5 It CAN instill lifelong love of learning if we’re thoughtful about how we fill that time. Choice reading writing talking w/a focus on volume could surely have an impact. #G2Great
And to be fair I do feel mine was a great overall experience. Certainly better than many. But that is the beauty of Twitter... we can all be exposed to better if we choose #g2great
Yes! I’m always so amazed and frustrated when teachers spend time and money creating stations, worksheets and centers for every season or even month of the year instead of teaching students how to authentically read, think, respond and write. #G2great
A5 I think yes, it could. Depending upon the work. We are exposing Ss to different ways of learning, they can stick of they are successful, engaging, and effective. #g2great
A4: it takes confidence to recognize that accountability does not mean “completion of a skill sheet”...confidence in ourselves as practitioners & confidence in our Ss & their ability to reflect & choose #G2great
A3: Arlington’s exemplary teacher study article: “Another characteristic of these exemplary teacher classrooms was the greater use of longer assignments and reduced emphasis on filling the day with multiple, shorter tasks. #g2great
A5: Real life Expectations are to collaborate and engage in conversation with peers. Hence, seat-work should reflect students these same expectations.
#g2great
A5 If we’re intentional then we can offer experiences that WILL promote lifelong love of reading. Everything we do instills (or kills) a lifelong love of literacy. #G2Great
It would be so powerful if we were brave enough to video tape that tie to look at later. We become so blinded to what is going on that it would help us to contemplate changes! #G2Great
A3: this is where a good evaluator could come in handy—what do you see that IS going on during independent work time? What do you think is missing? Why? Come together to discuss and tweak as needed. #g2great
Q5 Absolutely! In its best form, seatwork provides Ss with the opportunity for self-actualization as independent thinkers and doers. In the end, we are the holders of our own knowledge. Confidence & mastery come with indepednence. #g2great
Whew!! It amazed me this year on how hard it was to get my peers back to cut the cord. Between this and making homework packets... 🙃Please stop and use your time reviewing conference notes or planning strategy groups. #G2Great
A5- Havining worked in retail for half my teaching career, I know first hand that in the real world businesses want you to work with a team rather than do indy work. Indy work is sweeping and shoveling and other low risk tasks. #G2Great
A4: Don’t underestimate the self- awareness of older students. Goal setting can be used to develop intrinsic accountability. Conferencing and trust building are key. #g2great
A4 Accountability, yes, but also time to reflect and perfect their process that refines their reading/writing work. I can read a great text, but then I need time to think, question, wonder. All that is valuable work of readers. #G2Great
A5: Of course canned worksheets or unauthentic activities do not instill a love of learning, quite the opposite. But independent work tailored towards student choice, needs, and goals can ignite a passion #G2Great
A5: I believe authentic, independent work has benefits...to both the individual learner & the classroom community as a whole...the ability to sustain ones attention to a task, opens doors of self-reflection that may otherwise remain closed #G2great
A5 Carefully and collaboratively planned independent seatwork can help nourish a passikn and love of learning. Being real and authentic with our students and showing them the impact of theor learning on life gives them drive and energy. Let’s awaken their spirit! #g2great
A5: I think for some it does play a huge role. For others none. Sort of like everything else. I have students that ask for worksheets over anything creative. I have students that want to do an essay over a play. Letting our bias interfere with kids is not best #g2great
And if we could find time in the day to be an expert kid watcher, we might see things that we could then use in conferring, instructional groups, collaboration, and whole class teaching. Fly on the way observer! #G2Great
A5: I believe authentic, independent work has benefits...to both the individual learner & the classroom community as a whole...the ability to sustain ones attention to a task, opens doors of self-reflection that may otherwise remain closed #G2great
#G2Great By last quarter of yr, I was able to sit on edge of horseshoe table at book club mtgs since Ss knew what to do &were successful. This position allowed me to get up and roam unannounced to check on progress of Ss not in small groups. When we prime our Ss, Ts can kidwatch.
A5 If we’re intentional then we can offer experiences that WILL promote lifelong love of reading. Everything we do instills (or kills) a lifelong love of literacy. #G2Great
It all starts with books and copious amounts of them. Ts can’t provide the quality of reading needed without an expansive amount of books to choose from. #G2Great
A6. Teach Ss how to better use Reading or Writing Partnerships,
and how to conduct their own
SG or seminars,
and how to confer.
All 3 would be better use of time.
#G2great
A5 We have to be intentional in what we facilitate as "seatwork". In 3-6 grades on a campus where I worked, teachers created "response" journals with the text sets kids read. There were open ended questions, organizers kids would use to represent their thinking 1/2 #G2Great
A5 There are times when we all need to work independently to let our knowledge show and to have time to process. How this looks, though, is also independent and individual—when we expect everyone’s work/product to look the same, we’re drifting away from authentic. #G2Great
A6 My dream design would put kids at the center of decision making. We can offer meaningful options WITH choice about how they could spend time in authentic ways. #G2Great
Whew!! It amazed me this year on how hard it was to get my peers to cut the cord. Between this and making homework packets... 🙃Please stop and use your time to review conference notes, plann strategy groups, or simply go home to refuel for the next day. #G2Great
A5 2/2 Those response journals gave kids a chance to reflect and show their thinking. They were also a tool for supporting their discussions when their small group gathered to talk in depth about the texts they were reading and comparing. It was powerful to watch. #G2Great
#G2Great For last several yrs, 4th grade sent home pkts on Mon, due back on Fri. This was first yr we assigned 30 mins of nightly choice reading in place of packet. When Ss were not accountable, they would get a pkt. That turned them around quickly! Pkts are bad for Ss and Ts!
A6: I think I have said this almost every #g2great chat, but for me, Daily 5 is my goto: meaningful authentic activities, high expectations, student choice, , What is not to love?
A5 Independent seat won’t create life long learners if it’s not reading self-selected books & writing on topics Ss choose: Ask: Do I do it? Would I do it? If NO, don’t ask Ss to do it! #g2great
A6: "We all have goals. During this time, here are the choices for working toward those goals: " List options that may include independent work as well as collaborative work as well as even some flipped options. #g2great
A6 I love the Genius Hour approach. Having students lead, learn, design their approach and topic and make it relevant to them. Becoming their guide and co-pilot to push their thinking is a powerful way to learn. #g2great
Im with you Alexandria. What disturbs me most is when there is not even any room for conversation about why this is a poor use of time and what else we could do that would be worthy of kids! #G2Great
A5 Independent seat won’t create life long learners if it’s not reading self-selected books & writing on topics Ss choose: Ask: Do I do it? Would I do it? If NO, don’t ask Ss to do it! #g2great
A6 I love the Genius Hour approach. Having students lead, learn, design their approach and topic and make it relevant to them. Becoming their guide and co-pilot to push their thinking is a powerful way to learn. #g2great
Yes! Each workshop brings with an immersion lesson or 7-10 min mini lesson...this provides that next strategy, approach, etc to ponder, practice & reflect on #G2great
A6: Setting up a classroom community where students can successfully set goals and create plans to move towards them through conferring, partnerships, and collaboration. Give students the tools they need to work alone and together towards their goals #G2Great
#G2Great We used Readers' Notebooks and had Ss test out a variety of strategies to respond to reading - stop and jot, main idea/themes, BHH. Ss were able to pick strategy that worked for them after trying all of them first. I like idea of open-ended ?s that may be universal.
A6 just having. A balanced classroom with various types of lessons, assessments, and projects so Ss can learn. #g2great using whatever works for Ss and Ts.
A6 I can tell you what it wouldn’t look like; anything remotely frivolous time-wasting JUNK: worksheets, packets, Q&A, look up words, write definitions. No meaningless dribble! #G2Great
Good question! I’m not sure. I’ll have to think about that. Maybe not calling it “seatwork.” Can Ss get out of their seats? Would they still be independently working? #g2great
A6: Independent work has value. It has a place in strong instruction, but it needs careful thought and no packets. It's about the quiet and the reflection. It's needed. https://t.co/HRwAxcX02W#g2great
A6 We start by asking who is in charge of the learning: Ts or Ss? When we give Ss choices in ways to show learning, independently or collaboratively, “seatwork” takes on a whole new meaning. #G2Great
A6: There’s not one-size fits all when it comes to Ss’ work.
Again, intentionally analyzing Ss’ individual needs and strengths and PLANNING accordingly
#g2great
A6: Independent work has value. It has a place in strong instruction, but it needs careful thought and no packets. It's about the quiet and the reflection. It's needed. https://t.co/HRwAxcX02W#g2great
A6 My best-case version of independent seat work would try to incorporate the opinions/ideas of our students to make it seem like less of a chore for both. Some kind of creative response/reflection time (bullet journaling for example) could be beneficial #g2great
A5: Lifelong learning is cultured by Ts modeling and encouraging their Ss. This grows in seatwork, collaboration, and small groups but it always starts with the same thing trust. Do you as a T trust your students to help themselves grow as you gently nudge?#G2Great@DrMaryHoward
A6 Offer them choices. For young kids #makerspace and #Geniushour facilitated or reading and writing that makes sense to them. Authentic, creative and NOT a program that promotes conformity and compliance. Ok my “rants” done @DrMaryHoward#G2Great
A6: being a student now allows me to reflect upon the monotony of “busy work.” Right now we’re learning about digital literacy in a classroom and I would be excited to allow students to creatively reflect through blogs or social media #g2great
A6 The replacement is Problem Based Learning- students investigate a problem they see as relevant to their world and work to solve it. No fake engagement, No worksheets to create, unending enthusiasm and authentic value #g2great
A6 I love the Genius Hour approach. Having students lead, learn, design their approach and topic and make it relevant to them. Becoming their guide and co-pilot to push their thinking is a powerful way to learn. #g2great
A6 We must always ponder whether what we ask kids to do affords purposeful opportunities to reinforce & apply (thus transfer) what they already know. #G2Great
What's baffling to me is that just allowing kids to simply respond in writing, discuss with peers requires so little "prep" work for the teacher and allows the T to move around gathering valuable information and opportunities to confer. #whatgives#g2great
A7. Independent means a S can do the task without any assistance.
If this is true, then
I wonder if the child is being
nudged or challenged to push
a bit harder? Why not give it a go with more R and/or W - not less because the S has to do busy work.
#G2Great
A6: I want classroom libraries that look and feel like book stores. With kids and adults putting the right books into each other’s hands based on reading passion, interest and needs. #g2great
A6: any opportunity that gives Ss a chance to explore/discover/grow their interests is worthwhile...whether it’s pouring through a bin of books, jotting ideas on post-its, investigating on chromebooks or talking with others...this approach to nurturing the learner works #G2Great
A 6 It has to be authentic! Every class, content subjects too, needs diverse well stocked class libraries! Immerse Ss in the best books and writing! #g2great
If only we would really take a look at their faces, their demeanor and the impact on learning (or NOT). We have to really see the implications of what we do for kids! #G2Great
My 5 year old who loved school and his pre-k teacher asked if he would still have so many worksheets once he moved to kindergarten. Even young ones know when the learning is not authentic!
#G2Great I finally bit bullet &set up Edmodo for S book clubs for last book of yr. They LOVED it! After initial excitement abt the instant msg ability, Ss were able to dig deep and pose ?s for grp members as well as comment on notable events/lines. Need to find ways to integrate.
A7 I will keep talking @ the value of purposeful independent seatwork & help Ts be hypervigilant @ their practices. Our choices matter. Always have. Always will! #G2Great
I’m independent, but I need my PLN to help me along, too! I like what @ColoReader just said. Independent—NOT “left to their own devices without support.” #g2great
A7 Using student voice to help find the right balance in learning for each student. Approaching every student for who they are with supports that they need for their personal growth. So excited to start the new year already! #g2great
#G2Great We spend a lot of time at begg of yr w/accountable talk using short stories, often frm @Scholastic Storyworks. I took videos at end of this yr of Ss as models for next yr, mostly positive, some w/room to grow. Looking fwd to using to help Ss w/this impt skill frm 3rd-4th
In reply to
@MelanieMeehan1, @vrkimmel, @lisahburns, @KymHarjes, @Scholastic
A7 Rethinking my definition of seatwork and how Ss/parents/colleagues define it (the idea isn’t all bad, there are just some ineffective practices out there!). I will be even more intentional about the choices Ss have to showcase their learning. #G2Great
A7 I think it’s critical to spread small group supports & thus independent seatwork across the day. Then it’s not just a “reading block” thing but what we do throughout the day. #G2Great
A7- A takeaway is the reminder to keep pushing the "next" practice as opposed to just doing the "best" practice. This venue is an excellent resource to cull ideas. #G2Great
A7: I've been pondering flexibility all day, how to provide collaboration and thinking time along with an environment that promotes both. I will be consulting my Ss more at the beginning of the year as opposed to providing the structure for them off the bat. #g2great
Agreed. There is nothing willy-nilly about authentic teaching/learning...read alouds, immersions, Close Reading, mini lessons, shared writing, mentor texts, collaborative anchor charts, conferring... ALL play a role in preparing Ss for independent work #G2Great
A7 Since I sub and don’t have my own classroom, I tread lightly in sharing my views, not to be construed as a criticism. Hope to have more conversations w/classroom Ts to learn about their rational and purpose of their decisions in how, why and what they teach. #G2Great
Thanks @hayhurst3 for manning the #G2Great Had to bow out due to toddler bed time but absolutely loved the last 4 week chats. Thanks to all for the inspiring and challenging responses.
A7: Based on tonight’s conversation, I now understand that there needs/should be a balance — have seat-work because it promotes independence but also, be Intentional with the assignment given. Think: Does it help Ss become lifelong learners?!?
#g2great
A7 Engage students more in independent seatwork decisions. They can help us design independent seatwork possibilities based on interests. I find that kids always pleasantly surprise me with their ideas. #G2Great
A7 I think I need to open the floor to S voice in setting "seatwork" during book club time. I'm also hoping to roll out Mock Caldecott, so Ss will have structured "seatwork" during this unit. Hoping to keep new Ss engaged, accountable and successful! #G2Great
A3: Allington’s exemplary teacher article: “Another characteristic of these exemplary teacher classrooms was the greater use of longer assignments and reduced emphasis on filling the day with multiple, shorter tasks. #g2great
A7: I’ll be exploring sketch-noting as a way to enhance S reflection during workshop & Close Reading this year...excited to see how some will choose to use this approach during independent reading/writing #G2Great
A6 I think of Linda Dorn and Tammy Jones book, Apprenticeship in Literacy. I propose we design studio environment where we (Ts) are the master craftsman modeling/instructing and Ss are the apprentices who spend the bulk of the studio time trying out what Ts have modeled #G2Great
A1 I would analyze to see if the individual work is pulling its weight. I think individual work can be a great time to reflect or be creative, but I want to make sure they’re either moving forward in their understanding. Individual work can be great if used properly! #G2great
A7: We can define/redefine what independent work looks like. When we keep student needs in mind and invite them in on designing the work, this time can be successful #G2Great
THANK YOU for the thinking during my vacation! Yes, it’s true. Lifelong learner, here. I’m keeping all my notes for back-to-school time! Have a nice night, friends! #g2great
