Welcome to #G2Great we, @brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward and I are so glad you decided to join in the conversation. Please say hello and one word to describe reading logs...
Welcome #G2Great friends. We are so excited that you are joining us tonight to take a fresh look at the first topic in our series. Let’s shine the spotlight on READING LOGS and honestly reflect on it’s worth. @franmcveigh@hayhurst3@brennanamy
Hey everyone, Jeremiah here, tweeting from The Bothell Library in the Seattle area! @KCLS#g2great I am grateful to talk about something I let go of in my classroom, but I would like to find a way for students to remember what they read in a non-punitive way.
Hey everyone, Jeremiah here, tweeting from The Bothell Library in the Seattle area! @KCLS#g2great I am grateful to talk about something I let go of in my classroom, but I would like to find a way for students to remember what they read in a non-punitive way.
Rethinking the value of reading logs is SO important. Looking forward to tonight's chat and all of the upcoming taking a fresh look at our practices chats. #g2great
Rethinking the value of reading logs is SO important. Looking forward to tonight's chat and all of the upcoming taking a fresh look at our practices chats. #g2great
A1. When we ask Ss (and Parents) to keep logs, we need to be certain that WE model the same behavior and are crystal clear about our WHY?
Why logs?
Accountability?
Compliance?
Opportunity?
Or do they just "suck the JOY out of reading?
#G2Great
A1 It’s our professional responsibility to hold our practices up to a reflective mirror to consider value. Reading logs have been riddled w/mindless doing so time to call them to task. #G2Great
A 1 Too often students asked to use reading logs as an accountability tool. Write summaries of pages read, log in the number of pages read, etc. Question: Do you do what you’re asking students to do? #g2great
Rethinking the value of reading logs is SO important. Looking forward to tonight's chat and all of the upcoming taking a fresh look at our practices chats. #g2great
Hollyanna Bates from Breckenridge, Colorado, via the @rrcna_org Teacher Leader Institute in Louisville, KY. So excited to be here again! Love this chat! #G2Great
A1) When considering reading logs, it's key to ask if it is a task for compliance to the teacher or if it's a task for students to learn more about themselves as readers over time through determining patterns and setting goals. Also, is it engaging for students? #G2Great
#g2great Liz part of PAWLP writing institute this summer. Yes - I so agree with the quote about the power of logs to do the opposite of what we want them to do.
A1: Logs take time. Our time with Ss is precious; their time with books is even more so. Logs are often indicative of an underlying theme of Ss needing to be accountable or rewarded for their reading. Let's ask, "What is our ultimate goal? How are these helping?" #g2great
#g2great A1: We need to know the purpose of anything we ask kids to do. When my own daughters were younger, I HATED signing their reading logs. In my own practice, I think I tried them one year for accountability, but my kids told me they just faked them. I never did again.
Rethinking the value of reading logs is SO important. Looking forward to tonight's chat and all of the upcoming taking a fresh look at our practices chats. #g2great
A 1 Too often students asked to use reading logs as an accountability tool. Write summaries of pages read, log in the number of pages read, etc. Question: Do you do what you’re asking students to do? #g2great
A1: Are we using reading longs merely for record keeping or are they serving a greater purpose? Do they aide in students' self-reflection as readers or do they feel like paperwork? #g2great
A1: We must take a look at reading logs because it adds an arbitrary barrier to the love of reading, which should be the basis of reading instruction. My one question would be "What is our intention with the reading log?" (The road to hell is paved with good intentions!) #g2great
#g2great Hello from Alexandria VA! I'm Suzanne and our students are one week away from summer vacation. Excited to learn about reading logs- love them and hate them
#g2great A1 What is the purpose? What does a RL provide you as a teacher that cannot be observed or retrieved through a more authentic lense? What do you learn about your readers...more important...what are Ss learning about themselves as readers?
A1: what is being gained from the log---is it just something a T needs or is the S benefiting from it in some way. Bottom line---what's the purpose?#g2great
A1: Logs take time. Our time with Ss is precious; their time with books is even more so. Logs are often indicative of an underlying theme of Ss needing to be accountable or rewarded for their reading. Let's ask, "What is our ultimate goal? How are these helping?" #g2great
A1 One question I would ask to initiate reflection on reading logs is: how can they be an authentic tool to help readers celebrate their growth over time and not an accountability measure or chore? #G2Great
I actually do keep a list of all the books I read, organized by year. I do this so I can look at trends in my own reading and figure out genres I’m avoiding. I also read so much that keeping a list of titles helps me know if I’ve already read a book. #g2great
A1 Question: Even if we assume kids are actually benefiting from reading logs, we must ask if an alternative would be more productive/engaging. #G2Great
Amen, Mary! I’m looking to evolve in my thinking about reading logs. At TC, we believed they were a way to keep some simple stats, which ppl do when we are trying to improve #g2great
A1 It’s our professional responsibility to hold our practices up to a reflective mirror to consider value. Reading logs have been riddled w/mindless doing so time to call them to task. #G2Great
I haven't read any research that supports reading logs. Many of my high schoolers like to keep track of what they read, but I do that for them. They just need to concentrate on falling in love with reading. #G2Great
Q1. #G2great
Why is it important for educators to take a closer look reading logs? If you were to ask one question to initiate this reflective process, what question would you ask?
@mrbgilson
Actually, I do but it is purposeful. To keep track, to look for gaps, to find patterns in my own reading life. Students can do that too but without a log. #g2great
It's important to take a closer look at reading logs because all our reading practices should be as authentic and purposeful as possible. A question to ask would be - What is our purpose in doing this and is it effective? #G2Great
Beautiful words. I’m not aware of any research either Sarah - just a lot of opinion around them. I love that you accomplish the goal and take that burden off of them (and also give them choice) #G2Great
I haven't read any research that supports reading logs. Many of my high schoolers like to keep track of what they read, but I do that for them. They just need to concentrate on falling in love with reading. #G2Great
A1 It’s our professional responsibility to hold our practices up to a reflective mirror to consider value. Reading logs have been riddled w/mindless doing so time to call them to task. #G2Great
A1The reading logs which are sent home to record nightly reading are an acccountability tool. My question: "How can you engage in meaningful conversations about nightly reading without using a log?" #G2Great
A1 I think reading logs are an effort to make sure kids reading. Can't we think of another more respectful way to support them in their reading lives? @katsok shared that her 7th graders give book talks in class. Isn't that evidence enough that kids have read the book? #G2Great
A1 Asking WHY (contemplating purpose/research support) is only the start. Then we ask WHY NOT? (honest introspection) & WHAT ELSE? (better options) #G2Great
I think that like most things that may reside on a slippery slope, we can make them a temporary structure only and with specific purposes. I love that our thinking never stops evolving! #G2Great
Amen, Mary! I’m looking to evolve in my thinking about reading logs. At TC, we believed they were a way to keep some simple stats, which ppl do when we are trying to improve #g2great
A1 It’s our professional responsibility to hold our practices up to a reflective mirror to consider value. Reading logs have been riddled w/mindless doing so time to call them to task. #G2Great
A1: In what ways, if any, do reading logs help your readers? If we can’t answer (or realize our answers don’t match our philosophy at all), it’s time to rethink. #G2Great
Last summer I tried using a reading log to track my own reading to look at the difference between the books I read and the books I listened to on audible. I wanted to see how it felt. I didn't even finish two weeks. I was so frustrated. #G2Great
Actually, I do but it is purposeful. To keep track, to look for gaps, to find patterns in my own reading life. Students can do that too but without a log. #g2great
A2. (not in my own CR) How will the data collected from reading logs be used? If this question cannot be answered, there is an issue.
It goes to the heart of, "Do I keep a reading log?" Informally, yes, on Goodreads, and in my reading NB. Does anyone check it daily?
#g2great
A1 We need to ask, what do we want students to express with reading logs. We need purpose and we want it to empower their voice and build on their critical thinking and reflective process. No busy work. We cannot kill the joy of reading. #G2Great
Q1. #G2great
Why is it important for educators to take a closer look reading logs? If you were to ask one question to initiate this reflective process, what question would you ask?
@mrbgilson
I have honestly struggled with keeping track, since it takes 1-2 minutes away from conferring time, but it's worth it. I have some pretty sweet spreadsheets now, like this one, thanks to my tech integrator! #g2great
A1: Reading logs should also be looked at because it can hurt the relationship between the teacher and student. It shows "I don't trust you enough to read on your own so you need to track everything you do with this book." At it's very core, a reading log is punitive. #g2great
A1 I may sound cranky but I don't keep a reading log as an adult. When I finish reading a book I talk to someone, find another book by that author or read the next book on my TBR list. Can we replicate "real-life" reader work in the classroom with kids? #G2Great
A2 In too many classroom, desire overrules reason. WHY keeps us grounded in reason & makes research & professional knowledge our decision tipping point. #G2Great
A2 I believe that Reading logs offer important data and hold the potential to demonstrate our values. We value reading, we monitor reading (not contrived responses) we want to capture it w/a light tool. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
That’s part of the discussion Zoraya. There isn’t much research backing and yet it has become a very popular practice. That’s pretty common these days! #G2Great
If we really want to know what students are reading, we should be the ones collecting the data. Get to know Google Sheets or Excel, and you'll be so glad! My spreadsheet totals pages and book amounts. #G2Great
Q1. #G2great
Why is it important for educators to take a closer look reading logs? If you were to ask one question to initiate this reflective process, what question would you ask?
@mrbgilson
A 1 Too often students asked to use reading logs as an accountability tool. Write summaries of pages read, log in the number of pages read, etc. Question: Do you do what you’re asking students to do? #g2great
A1 In my classroom, rdg logs served as an instructional tool. I could confer with students about rdg habits and help them set goals. We always have to start with WHY for every instructional choice. #G2Great
I have honestly struggled with keeping track, since it takes 1-2 minutes away from conferring time, but it's worth it. I have some pretty sweet spreadsheets now, like this one, thanks to my tech integrator! #g2great
I used to write down every book I read, but then I got out of the habit. Whenever I can't remember if I read a certain book or not, I wish I still kept a list. #G2Great
#g2great A2: I do NOT use reading logs in my classroom, at least not the kind that gets sent home to track the time students read and require parent signatures. Some of my students make a list of the books they read in their reading journals. Not a requirement, tho.
A2: WHY am I doing this/assigning this? Will it benefit students and their learning? (Please, if you say YES to reading logs, weigh in here! I want to know a good "why.") #g2great
A2: My 'why' in the classroom was to support students in regular reflection: to keep track of of texts they loved, to push themselves to find outside of the box books/genres, and to keep track of the texts that made them feel 'lost in a book.' #g2great
A2) My why: "Why am I asking students to keep track of their reading?" It's certainly not to prove that they've read or to be compliant because the teacher said so. Rather, it's so they can see patterns in their reading choices/habits overtime to make future decisions. #G2Great
A2: My time with Ss is precious, and their love of reading is so pure in third grade, I don't want to do anything that would sour that love. Reading logs for me does not nurture that love. It is also not authentic. I don't have my partner sign off when I finish a book! #g2great
Yes! When thinking of younger students some of them take soooooo much time filling in their reading log that they lose a lot of precious reading time. I bet they could do book talks too. #G2Great
I love your point about conversations Hollyanna but I wonder if we need a log to do that (and I’m only asking). More importantly is what we put on those logs. I find that most are disturbingly controlling end not worth the time required but that’s the benefit of dialgoue #G2Great
A1The reading logs which are sent home to record nightly reading are an acccountability tool. My question: "How can you engage in meaningful conversations about nightly reading without using a log?" #G2Great
A2: Why I don't ask my 1st/2nd graders to use reading logs: I would much rather my students finish a book, hold it close to their hearts, and spend a few moments savouring it instead of labouring over an entry in a log or ticking off another box. #G2Great
The point of any log is to track something. The data matters to us teachers, so we should do the tracking. Kids can keep track of books read, and ones they want to read. #G2Great
A2: The why is to help young readers grow a love of reading. We also want to help striving readers grow through practice but how has to be consistent with building the love. #G2Great
A2: We keep logs periodically for short bursts of time throughout the year & use the info to reflect on reading practices. Ss look for trends to help set a new goal (try a new genre, read more challenging books, etc.) #G2great
A2: I would rather have the Ss make use of a response journal. This is a better use of their time since we want them to interact with the text. Thinking about what they are reading as opposed to how many pages or minutes is the point. #g2great
A2: No, I tried logs to use as a reflection tool for students to look at reading rates, patterns in reading preferences, etc but found them to hinder student reading. Talking with readers gave us both an opportunity for reflection during conferences without the “data” #g2great
A2 Ts tell me they use reading logs to keep track of Sts’ reading but they tend to become a compliancy task riddled in distrust. Can we really justify that? #G2Great
A2 I guess I don’t understand the need for accountability. Who checks up on your daily reading? Do you track how many pages or chapters you read each night and have someone initial it? If the answer is no... why? #g2great
A1: Reading logs are so often just collecting quantitative data (minutes, number of books). What kind of qualitative info could they used for instead? Like a quote a student liked or a question for the author #g2great
A2 As a runner I use logs when I have a goal to meet - a marathon or race. I log for a purpose. I never log unless I have a goal. I share my running logs with Ss & encourage them to create a purposeful, meaningful log IF they need one #G2Great
#g2great Also a 3rd grade teacher. I can tell if kids are reading by having conferences with them about their books. I listen to them talk about books with their classmates. I watch them write fan fiction about DogMan.
A2: My “why” is to serve as one tool among many to learn about my readers. BUT when logs don’t work for a reader, it’s time to rethink, move on, and find a better way. #G2Great
A1 I may sound cranky but I don't keep a reading log as an adult. When I finish reading a book I talk to someone, find another book by that author or read the next book on my TBR list. Can we replicate "real-life" reader work in the classroom with kids? #G2Great
A1 I don’t know if there is any research about reading logs, but I would like to do research showing how much parents and students and teachers hate them. #g2great
We use logs simply to see how many pages kids read in a sitting (eg 20 min). If the answer is 7, then a conversation is warranted. “Hey, what’s going on here kiddo?” It’s ONE way to have eyes on match2text #g2great
Q1. #G2great
Why is it important for educators to take a closer look reading logs? If you were to ask one question to initiate this reflective process, what question would you ask?
@mrbgilson
A2: The “Why” behind reading logs for me is to reflect on reading habits, it provides evidence of those habits as well as provides an opportunity to reflect and set goals. It is important for Ss to use the log for reflection #G2Great
I want to be sure everyone knows that we are not trying to take sides or criticize those who do or don’t use reading logs The whole purpose of this discussion is to engage in thoughtful, respectful conversation (so thank you for maintaining that view! #G2Great
A2 We do not use logs with K-2 students. It takes away from time to authentically read and at times discourages rereading which is essential for these readers developmentally. #G2Great
I often assume it’s all about distrust and nothing more. It’s a way to say “you didn’t read the amount I think you should” #g2great there are many other ways to motivate and engage Ss to read without accountability.
A2 Too often reading logs are so convoluted (date, title, pages, level, task etc) & time consuming. We must always evaluate potential downfall of such questionable choices. #G2Great
#g2great A2 RL seem to be one of those things "We've always done!" Pausing a practice to gauge effectiveness and perspective is wise. I realized I was measuring compliance not engagement, my intended purpose, with the use of a traditional RL.
#g2great Also a 3rd grade teacher. I can tell if kids are reading by having conferences with them about their books. I listen to them talk about books with their classmates. I watch them write fan fiction about DogMan.
A2: My WHY is to use reading logs to keep track of reading rates (# of pages read at a comfortable pace) to build a strong habit, establish routine, and build stamina. Think of it like you would to chart reps, lbs, or minutes. They are quick convo starters. #g2great
Wow. Amazing educators sharing some truly amazing ideas, insights, and inspirations at #g2great. Student choice, reading engagement, and creating a culture of literacy and love of reading. Great stuff to think about!
Thank you for this. I find it so valuable to hear multiple perspectives- I can get shielded by my own professional bubble sometimes- these are the best kind of chats that stretch our thinking #G2Great
A1: We also use logs because we are afraid to trust that our kids are reading - we have to incorporate some accountability - even if it's mere page numbers #G2Great
A2) My why: "Why am I asking students to keep track of their reading?" It's certainly not to prove that they've read or to be compliant because the teacher said so. Rather, it's so they can see patterns in their reading choices/habits overtime to make future decisions. #G2Great
Smart use of a reading log! That is the purpose of them, unfortunately sometimes they are used for the wrong reasons - like grades or accountability - Reflection and goal setting are the purpose! #G2Great
A key point is we SHOULD have these kind of conversations in our schools. Too much of what we do is done because others do it or someone said to do it. I just want us to discuss what we do, why we do it, and if do choose to do it how can we do it in the best possible way #G2Great
A2 I believe that Reading logs offer important data and hold the potential to demonstrate our values. We value reading, we monitor reading (not contrived responses) we want to capture it w/a light tool. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
#g2great
Q2 I've found reading logs most helpful to students who need extra support getting into a routine of reading at home nightly. And then letting it go once that habit of reading is happening.
A1 How can young readers, families, and teachers interact with books together? This photo was taken of 1st week in creating log w/ families: children's illustrations, dots (to color in for each day they read), the kids' & family ideas abt what to include. #G2Great
A2:I’m having bad WiFi issues at the moment, so excuse me if this isn’t in line w/the current question. I haven’t used reading logs for many years, as they didn’t seem to help my Ss become stronger, more engaged readers. Conferring gives me better insight. #g2great
A2) My why: "Why am I asking students to keep track of their reading?" It's certainly not to prove that they've read or to be compliant because the teacher said so. Rather, it's so they can see patterns in their reading choices/habits overtime to make future decisions. #G2Great
Agreed... my word for them was hazardous because of how often they are employed without much consideration or just because we've always done them... #g2great
A3. Encourage Ts to talk about the value/purpose of logs in classroom blog, back to school night handouts. Working together, side by side, w/ Ss to create Joyful readers who choose to read.
#BetterTogether
Check out chats like this in search of inspiring language/tips!
#g2great
I want to be sure everyone knows that we are not trying to take sides or criticize those who do or don’t use reading logs The whole purpose of this discussion is to engage in thoughtful, respectful conversation (so thank you for maintaining that view! #G2Great
I spent too many years requiring reading logs until I knew a different way. Looking for alternatives? Read my post here: #G2Greathttps://t.co/j4ZjZrLoDn
#g2great A2 pt. 2 I also realized that even though it appears to be so...well..it wasn't always so. I tweaked the traditional log to include question stems & thinking maps but & saw some elevation but again I questioned who this was for & wondered what if anything I was learning
A2: In our district, we have had many discussions regarding the purpose of using reading logs. Some teachers use them as a tool for discussing reading habits and others use them purely for accountability. There are varying thoughts. #G2great
A2: Part of my 'why' as a classroom teacher was to get to know my students as readers. I collected their logs and helped see patterns in their reading and was able to recommend great authors, books, or genres they might like. #g2great
A3 Any time we examine our practices we always begin by keeping kids at the center of our thinking. Children are the lens by which we view everything! #G2Great
A3 They fuel real conversations and they are celebrated throughout the classroom. They are used in other contexts. Link the work to meaning that's key. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
Do you think it would be helpful to pair reading log check-ins with smaller discussions about the books that the students are reading to better address what they're getting out of their readings? #G2Great
A2 My main why is always asking why do I want my students to deepen their thinking and about what. All pedagogical strategies need to be centred around our students. Be about learning, be about developing a love for reading and communicating. #G2Great
I think that should be the question of FILL IN THE BLANK and certainly this topic. We do so much without much thought and rarely consider it from the perspective of a “real world reader” (and hi friend) #G2Great
Dana from Iowa joining a little late. Former classroom teacher, current reading specialist, & teacher librarian in training. Excited to stumble on the #G2Great reading log chat! I've heard lots of conflicting opinions on this topic.
#g2great A3: I am constantly reflecting, asking myself what is working and what is not. And when something is not, I change it. I have changed my thinking on reading logs, reading response letters, book reports, etc. MANY, many times over the 24 years I’ve been teaching.
A3: I have gone from not thinking about it all and doing it b/c "we always did it" (and for the pizza coupons) to thinking more about why and what we (T/S/P) learn from the usage #g2great
A3) I've been considering & reevaluating why & how I ask students to keep track of their reading for years now. If it's not working, we have to find a better way. Quite a while ago, I ditched the reading log. It's a great story (hence the picture) https://t.co/XtZ7OgtxIQ#G2Great
Yes. Even with conferring, I try emphasize that it's not "teacher quiz the student" time, but instead a thoughtful conversation about reading. #G2Great
A2 I use reading logs for my reading Ss/parents to record the nightly reading. The purpose of my log is as a way for parents to communicate with me. #g2great
A2: My “why” is to serve as one tool among many to learn about my readers. BUT when logs don’t work for a reader, it’s time to rethink, move on, and find a better way. #G2Great
A2:(2) what has given my Ss more voice is journaling in our class “good reads” style folder in @Seesaw. I’ve seen my most reluctant readers take great pride in contributing recommendations to it. #g2great
For me students list books they finish and abandon! The logs let me see what students are reading. Students discuss a book they choose from their logs with team members and choose one for a monthly book talk. Can’t nor should we monitor all students read. TRUST! #g2great
The fact that we’re already trending shows that people are really thinking about reading logs and whether or not they have any value. I love having conversations about things we are questions (even some of us) #G2Great
We do quarterly reflections on our reading records. What was the most challenging, where are my gaps, where does my reading go from here? For me, that is purposeful tracking - their own reflection. #g2great
Do you think it would be helpful to pair reading log check-ins with smaller discussions about the books that the students are reading to better address what they're getting out of their readings? #G2Great
A2: Can we define "log"? My Ss keep Reading Now & Want to Read lists. We discuss during conferences/informal conversations. Pictures on phones replaced written lists for some. #g2great
A1 Hello, I’m Larisa on my first chat! I’m a preservice ELA teacher,
For reading logs, I think it’s important (esp as an ELA teacher) to just be able to keep track of the themes, ideas, quotes that we pull out of books bc we’re reading so many. Organization is key! #g2great
I can’t tell you how many reading logs I faked the night before (or the morning of) they were due. My kids read every night, either on their own or with me. I didn’t record exact times. That time was too important to me as a mom. #g2great
A3 The more I learn and reflect, the more I want to get families and community members (global partners) involved in reading. It is a social activity. Reading logs can help reflect and develop these partnerships and make connections. We need to break the mold. #G2Great
A1 My "why" is that when I require kids to fill in a log with book titles, time spent reading and an adult signature it: 1) sucks the very life out of the joy of reading 2) does not reflect in any way the authentic life of a reader. #G2Great
I wouldn't even keep the logs, but instead have those check-ins first. Listen to students, see what you need to know more about, and create a "thought log" instead (if that makes sense). #G2Great
I think that the key word there is LIGHT TOOL. I often however, see them as something very cumbersome and controlling. We just have to be careful we don’t cross that line #G2Great
A2 I believe that Reading logs offer important data and hold the potential to demonstrate our values. We value reading, we monitor reading (not contrived responses) we want to capture it w/a light tool. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
When we are tracking reading for accountability, I fear that we are giving the message that reading is a chore to be endured. Students who are struggling need to feel inspired to read and not to feel guilty because an adult wasn't available to listen. #g2great
A3: My Ss & I had conversations around why we keep logs & how we can use them to explore our reading identities. We also used 1 log for school & home & never required a signature. Ss and families saw the log as a quick tool to keep track of one's reading life. #g2great
A3: After speaking with parents some of our teachers have chosen to use an electronic version of a reading log. This allows Ts and Ps to have conversations around the Ss reading and to share their reading with their classmates to recommend books. #G2Great
A3 We start by asking WHY, no matter what we’re contemplating. If reading logs are about compliance, they have no place. It’s not about what we WANT but what is worthy of kids. #G2Great
A3) I've been considering and reevaluating why and how I ask students to keep track of their reading for years now. Quite a while ago, I ditched the reading log, and found personal bookshelves to be a really valuable alternative! https://t.co/iVQVh4iJ4l#G2Great
A3: I keep coming back to my why and looking at what’s actually happening, not what I thought would happen. I ask Ss for input & the biggest change has been choice—no one has to prove to me that they read, but are invited to share in any way that means something to them #G2Great
A3: As a teacher and parent, I know that parents sometimes just "sign away" and don't talk to Ss about their reading. I like the question, "What is the main character doing/saying now (at this point in the book)?" #g2great
A3 When I taught 3rd grade I had a conversationwith a parent & then I changed the log to reflect which reading strategies students were using while reading at home #g2great
A3) I've been considering and reevaluating why and how I ask students to keep track of their reading for years now. Quite a while ago, I ditched the reading log, and found personal bookshelves to be a really valuable alternative! https://t.co/iVQVh4iJ4l#G2Great
Melinda, I think you exposed something important here, some logs are effective and some are not - depends on how they are created and the purpose of it #G2Great
Exactly! Instead, it's a check of the parents, which I understand is needed. What about a weekly email instead? I send parents weekly agendas with reading recommendations and tips at the bottom. #G2Great
I want my students to love books and read for the fun and pleasure of it. Instead of the chore of a reading log, I prefer getting kids to talk about books they are reading with me and with each other. #G2Great
I like this idea. Ss need to know that it is okay to abandon a book---you may pick it up later in the year or not. What's impo is being able to identify the why or why not you like the book. Identify what is or isn't working for you as a reader. #g2great
A3: Truly I haven't thought about it in a while. I would like for my students to keep track of their books in a way that can help them see themselves as readers (like Goodreads does for me). My main goal is to make sure it is not tedious and that it can help them #g2great
A2 See A1 for my WHY. Always reflecting on how to improve my practices. Logs can be used for short periods of time. When working in changing my eating habits, I logged EVERYTHING. Once I had routine, logging wasn't as critical. #G2Great
A1 In my classroom, rdg logs served as an instructional tool. I could confer with students about rdg habits and help them set goals. We always have to start with WHY for every instructional choice. #G2Great
A3: This is tough. I’ve relfected on my own practices, but my colleagues do not necessarily agree with my opinion. In the interest of working as a team, compromises ensue. Curious to read what others think! #G2great
A3 Our practices must be aligned to our growing understandings & that always guided our choices. Reading logs don’t fit my understandings so they have no place in my practices. #G2Great
A2: Can we define "log"? My Ss keep Reading Now & Want to Read lists. We discuss during conferences/informal conversations. Pictures on phones replaced written lists for some. #g2great
A2 My why is about authenticity. Why would we ask students to do something that we would not also do as readers? We can't create joyful life-long readers with inauthentic reading practices. #G2Great
A3) I've been considering and reevaluating why and how I ask students to keep track of their reading for years now. Quite a while ago, I ditched the reading log, and found personal bookshelves to be a really valuable alternative! https://t.co/iVQVh4iJ4l#G2Great
Enjoying the chat from Columbus, OH I believe the concept of reading logs come from a place of encouraging students to read at home. Unfortunately, that isn’t really something we can control. I address the REAL issue in my recent Blog. https://t.co/oPpRybwBQx
A2 If, as a teacher, I value kids reading books they chose themselves, kids talking and writing about books they read, recommending titles to their friends, then won't I find a tool that lets them do that? How about https://t.co/hHCbzvtL8j#G2Great
A2 My why is about authenticity. Why would we ask students to do something that we would not also do as readers? We can't create joyful life-long readers with inauthentic reading practices. #G2Great
A2 If, as a teacher, I value kids reading books they chose themselves, kids talking and writing about books they read, recommending titles to their friends, then won't I find a tool that lets them do that? How about https://t.co/hHCbzvtL8j#G2Greathttps://t.co/hHCbzvtL8j
A3: Ss said they hated logs, parents agreed. I hated "grading" them. We discuss what works best for individuals. Most prefer lists and conversations. Looking at discussion partners next year. #g2great
I love your idea of using social media as a way for students to stay accountable and engage with their readings! I think it would be an effective alternative to reading logs that student would find enjoyable. Thanks for sharing your ideas! #G2Great
And I think it can and should have many FACES even if we choose to use it. It’s so important that we don’t make it a control issue but offer different options (including Flipgrid and other technology. Who says it has to be hand written? #G2Great
A2: Can we define "log"? My Ss keep Reading Now & Want to Read lists. We discuss during conferences/informal conversations. Pictures on phones replaced written lists for some. #g2great
Thank you, Dee Dee! Any type of log should reflect what real readers might do (e.g. keep a list of "want to read" books or logging it via an app or online system) #g2great
When we are tracking reading for accountability, I fear that we are giving the message that reading is a chore to be endured. Students who are struggling need to feel inspired to read and not to feel guilty because an adult wasn't available to listen. #g2great
A3: I actually started rethinking logs a few years ago when a parent contacted me saying the log writing was becoming a problem for her reader. I then asked my students who mostly felt keeping track of pages didn’t help and decided to just list book titles #g2great
A4. If used for accountability, hold Ts to same standard. How & when do we keep records of our reading?
Otherwise, Record book ads/trailers w/ flipgrid and QR codes.
Build the #booklove!
#g2great
A2 I love that @pennykittle has students record number of pages they've read as a way to help them reflect on how they're growing toward # of pages they'll be required to read in college/university. Now that makes sense. #G2Great
I think in this chat it is important to remember we all teach different grades. reading logs and keep track of reading looks WAY different in 3rd grade than it does in Middle and high school. Just something to keep thinking about!! #g2great
I struggle with this too... I know that some of my students feel bad when they don't have their log signed. That is not the feeling I want to inspire. #G2Great
A4. If goal is to pump up reading volume, change the log. Use tally marks. Don't spend time on recording every title. Make the goal and data recording match.
#G2great
A4 There are better ways to know what kids are reading such as a visual gallery wall, graffiti wall, conferring, padlet, Flipgrid or Voxer (walkie talkie app). #G2Great
A4. If goal is to fall in love with reading, change the log. Make a column for whomever MUST positively read this book. Leave a space for the WHY. Don't spend time on recording irrelevant information. Make the goal and data recording match.
#G2great
A3 Our rule for many things including logs: if it is not informing your instruction or lifting the level of your instruction -- stop doing it. #G2Great
A4: Conferring with readers is the best way to hold Ss accountable. They expect and look forward to their time discussing what they're reading and how they're thinking about the text. #g2great
A:1 I would ask why we are looking at student reading data, and not at student qualitative understanding. An informal reading journal exhibiting how they grow as a reader seems like a more useful tool, although more difficult to parse as an educator #G2Great
Definitely and I think that means that we should be consistently rethinking what we thought and then when what we are doing is no longer relevant then we adapt it or kick it to the curb it! #G2Great
A4: Book talks/sharing a scene/2-minute progress check in a conference/peer partner checks/FlipGrid/PSA/Drawing a fave scene for a gallery walk/etc. #g2great
A4 I think whenever we start talking about accountability we are leaning into a a fixed mindset. Coming at logs from a celebratory stance the idea is to make kids want to do this so we can reflect and learn. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
A3: I confer with students, stay current on what works, and explore ideas. For example, I ask students to take the pulse of their reading lives every 6 weeks so they can measure their successes. Check it out: https://t.co/pEzITZwZ9c#g2great
I think this conversation would be improved by specificity. We are making some generalizations & that won't help us all learn. These conversations are so important for reflection & improvement, but we need to be careful that we aren't self-righteous. Practices evolve...#G2great
A3 In early elementary keeping reading logs becomes a chore. Finding ways to keep kids engaged and not frustrated with the added writing component when they’re not ready. Being creative & allowing for flexibility #G2Great
A4: You just can't beat time talking with students about what they're reading and engaging students in conversations with each other about books! #g2great
A4- Instead of assigning a reading log for accountability, Ss can be assigned a certain amount of pages to read by a specific date. As we get closer to the date, we can complete org. charts and hold discussions on the reading. Their participation is the accountability #G2Great
A4: In third grade, continuously conferring with students is my why to ensure they are reading. Next year, I would like to implement some sort of reading journal (not response journal) in which they can keep track of their books, so I can help them notice patterns, etc #g2great
I am so often asked how I hold my students accountable if I give them 10 minutes to read every class. I respond with: conferring, quick writes, using IR books to practice imitating writing, student-to-student conversations, reading ladders, and more! #g2great
A3 Our rule for many things including logs: if it is not informing your instruction or lifting the level of your instruction -- stop doing it. #G2Great
A4 conferring with readers can open so many doors. It can turn accountability into responsibility. Learn about your readers by conferring and listening to them read and talk about their books. #g2great
A4 I definitely think that reading conferences are a better way to go. It will also give you more information about why Ss might not be reading which a reading log doesn't do. #g2great
One fo the things that I’m loving about this conversation is that so many of you are sharing options. Maybe the real issue is thinking about how we view a record or log and giving it a little surgical facelift. Just thinking out loud! #G2Great
A4) Conferring! When we make conferring part of our daily classroom routine, we get to intimately know the reading lives of all our students. There's no more effective way to get to know our readers. #G2Great
A2 My "why" w/ rdg logs is to showcase unique ways Ss interact w/ poems, plays, bks & to inspire others to delve, too. One fav component is the wkly illustration. Each one loves showing their interpretation of the pic & the way they respond to the prompt. #G2Great
A4) I think video responses through programs like Flipgrid provide the same type of information but in a more user friendly way. Flipgrid sparks conversations not just “proof” that the reading was done. #G2Great
A4 Talk to the kids about what they’re reading and really listen—and give them the time to talk to each other. I love the #IMWAYR check-ins to see what kids are reading. Reading is social—talking about a book is much more motivating than filling out a log. #g2great
A4: If my ultimate goal is to create a community of readers, there would be no reason for this “accountability “ tool. Have students create book talks, recommendations, and talk about books! #g2great
A4 I keep a list of books I have read on my phone because that works for me. Ss can "log" and reflect on their reading in many ways: notes app, paper list, instagram, twitter, goodreads, camera roll, booktalks, padlet, etc. Choosing the method empowers the reader. #g2great
#g2great A4 I think a RL like many tools such as thinksheets, organizers can quickly become compliance pieces and perfunctory vs. purposeful. Depends HOW they are used perhaps more that WHAT is being used. I found conferring, partners, and book club conversations to do the job.
The great thing is the kiddos actually really love it, too. It's an open invitation for them to keep track of their books in a visual manner. All the shelves look different- they are very personal. #G2Great
I saw this not too long ago somewhere along the internet and thought, what a great alternative and quick visual for a teacher to glean a measure of balance in a reader's diet!
Such an important reminder! I read with emerging readers every day and so I am thinking about it in a very different context than some. Great point! #g2great
A4. If goal is to fall in love with reading, change the log. Make a column for whomever MUST positively read this book. Leave a space for the WHY. Don't spend time on recording irrelevant information. Make the goal and data recording match.
#G2great
A4: reading Accountably through a reading log?!? 🤔
Just because the logged it doesn’t mean they read it.
Accountability is noted in conversations with students and student-parent engagement about the readings!
#g2great
I am a slow reader, but there are times when I adjust my rate due to the parts in the book, so is that taken into consideration when recording how many pp are read? #g2great Our rate does increase, but there are times when you need to linger with the words.
A4 I think whenever we start talking about accountability we are leaning into a a fixed mindset. Coming at logs from a celebratory stance the idea is to make kids want to do this so we can reflect and learn. #G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
Students need to also speak with their peers about how their reading is going. Getting the chance to learn from peers is vital if we want to create lifelong readers. They need reading sources beyond us. #g2great
A4 Booktalks, book clubs, literacy circles & discussion groups would let us know what Sts are reading WITH sharing/advertising. Plus it marries assessment + practice! #G2Great
#g2great A2 I did not use logs this year. Instead, I took a pg out of @NancieAtwell and did #statusoftheclass daily and conferred w Ss on a weekly basis using a schedule. So much more meaningful!
#g2great I am going to have a class set of iPads next year. I’d like to do something similar, but give kids the option to do it in their reading notebooks or post in SeeSaw. Just once a week about the book they MOST want to share with someone else.
A3 Can we be wise enough to occasionally ask families/caregivers/students how our system of showing we value reading is working for our reading community? What if we asked, "How is our reading log (or whatever) helping you to grow as a reader? Do you have suggestions?" #G2Great
A4: Confer with kids about what they are reading, have Ss do book recommendations of books they have read. Make it fun and engaging so they want to participate and will read just for that. #G2Great
A4) Also inviting students to create & maintain personal bookshelves... they're never due. Rather, they're a personal record each reader keeps in their own reading notebook. We use them in conferences & as a group to figure out patterns as readers #G2Greathttps://t.co/iVQVh4iJ4l
A4- Sharing. We come together everyday to share our reading and writing. Having an authentic audience of peers is all the accountability we need. #G2Great
A4 There are better ways to know what kids are reading such as a visual gallery wall, graffiti wall, conferring, padlet, Flipgrid or Voxer (walkie talkie app). #G2Great
A3: I look at the book conversations coming from students. Can they give book suggestions, opinions, and preferences about their reading tastes? #G2Great
And it achieves the same results (creating a visual record) but adds the missing piece of dialogue and support. It doesn’t take long to jot a title down and I’m not sure why we need them written every single day - like a reading log dipstick? #G2Great
#g2great A2 I did not use logs this year. Instead, I took a pg out of @NancieAtwell and did #statusoftheclass daily and conferred w Ss on a weekly basis using a schedule. So much more meaningful!
A4: Talk to kids about books. Instead of modeling reading by reading. Let them read and confer with students 1:1. Ask how they are enjoying the relationship with the book. If the relationship is good, great! Keep investing in it. If not, ditch it and find another. #g2great
I actually keep my list in two places: Goodreads and in a Facebook list. It drives me nuts when they don’t match. I’m a weirdo, I know. #g2great#supernerd
In reply to
@ML_Buchanan, @chrisp16, @jdsniadecki, @franmcveigh, @blackstorymagic, @oonziela
A4 Are we really willing to put accountability above what matters? Asking parents to sign is a symbol of distrust. How will distrust possibly maximize reading? #G2Great
Welcome to the greatest professional development you'll ever experience!
I have "community" quote/theme notebooks around the room. Kids add to those as they find things that resonate. #g2great
A4. Although I didn't do well with it, conferring/discussing reading lives w Ss as well as S authentic responses seemed to check the accountability box #g2great
A4 Conferring with students, let students confer with each other. Have book conversation times so students learn what their peers are reading! #g2great
I'm with you, Melinda...my favorite feature is the "Want to Read" button and the ability to scan a barcode to add to the "Want to Read" shelf. #G2Great
In reply to
@ML_Buchanan, @chrisp16, @jdsniadecki, @franmcveigh, @blackstorymagic, @oonziela
A5. Post "I'm reading. . ."
Post pic of TBR stack.
Collect pics of "next up"
Consider behaviors from real world.
What do readers do?
"Talk with someone about the book!"
#g2great
A4 Build trust. Create meaningful work and they will be accountable. Who wants to be accountable for meaningless work. Have conferences to create accountability. Build partnerships and collaborators. When Ss see you care, they will also care. #G2Great
And page number certainly doesn’t mean much in terms of depth of thinking. I’m a slower reading but I read at a very deep level. I think that depth would be compromised if I had to worry about playing the page number game. #G2Great
This is such a great idea! Helping students share books with each other through reading logs makes them seem like less of a chore and more of a way to connect with each other - so cool #g2great
I've been thinking that we are not trying to get rid of reading logs; we are asking "why" use them/why do they work? If the answer is "for a grade/accountability" then how can we change that? #g2great
Love the focus on talking “reader to reader” and not just “teacher to student!” Kids know the difference between when you’re being the teacher and when you’re talking with them as a fellow reader. #g2great
Parents often share that in their busy lives they are not monitoring their child's reading and just quickly signing the log for the week. So how is that moving Ss forward in reading? #G2Great
A4 Are we really willing to put accountability above what matters? Asking parents to sign is a symbol of distrust. How will distrust possibly maximize reading? #G2Great
A5 The ONLY purpose of a reading log is to keep track of titles kids read but I see that as a temporary support. A visual picture gallery is a more effective option. #G2Great
A5 Reading logs are meant to bring self awareness. Reading is something I do as part of my daily life. We we honor them as artifacts of dev the reading habit we can (I hope) instill a lifelong love of reading.#G2Great@brennanamy@franmcveigh@DrMaryHoward
Yes!! My niece used to have my sister sign her log before she ever read! I talked to her about just being honest and not asking for a signature if she wasn’t reading 🤣
#g2great
I have one sheet with 40 tabs to use for each class. I can easily copy and page book titles ahead of time, or modify them if they change. I do add page numbers most days. I just never read when the kids do. I mostly confer. #g2great
And page number certainly doesn’t mean much in terms of depth of thinking. I’m a slower reading but I read at a very deep level. I think that depth would be compromised if I had to worry about playing the page number game. #G2Great
Or...perhaps Ss set their own goals and work to meet them? This might make a nice point of conferring- “Hey, how’s your reading life going? You on track? How can I help?” #g2great
A4- Instead of assigning a reading log for accountability, Ss can be assigned a certain amount of pages to read by a specific date. As we get closer to the date, we can complete org. charts and hold discussions on the reading. Their participation is the accountability #G2Great
Parents often share that in their busy lives they are not monitoring their child's reading and just quickly signing the log for the week. So how is that moving Ss forward in reading? #G2Great
A4 Are we really willing to put accountability above what matters? Asking parents to sign is a symbol of distrust. How will distrust possibly maximize reading? #G2Great
A5: I think not, that said I do see how it might be a stepping stone for a kid who needs the visual of the progress they are making. Some kind of a reminder. I don't like the idea but I do have students or have in the past that need that visual. #g2great
A4 Ss love conferences. They voice frustrations and joy. When it's not a "gotcha", they'll ask for/be open to help/suggestions. Working on Ss leading conference w/peers next year. #g2great
I know @Flipgrid has been mentioned but it is an easy way to set up peer to peer book discussions and recommendations while the T gets a look inside S reading #g2great
A4: Conferring is natural accountability. A purposeful reading log can certainly be part of the conference, especially if tied to reflection and goal setting. Ss should understand their reading habits and ways to expand their reading - reflection helps with that. #G2Great
A5 I don’t believe for a moment that reading logs instill a lifelong love of learning. Reading texts we care about & engaging in conversations is how we accomplish that. Let’s not confuse the two. #G2Great
A5: See, that's the thing. Maybe some LIKE the reading log; maybe they use it for a good reason. But I don't like them; I feel like they limit me because they're assigned. Drudgery. Boring. I want to READ! and TALK about reading! And SHARE my reading with others. #g2great
A5: My real life expectations are that kids will recommend books to each other and share their love of reading. Personally I like a good list of “must reads” & a chat after “did read”. #G2great
A4 Talking w/ Ss and families abt my job to ensure they are reading books they LOVE, that they are reading enough (volume) I need help knowing if I'm accomplishing my job. Some kids are voracious readers and others need coaxing. We don't need the same tool for all kids. #G2Great
#g2great A5 In terms of thinking about how books throughout my life time have spoken to me personally & whose words have helped shaped who I am and mirrored my life: joys, challenges, values, beliefs then a resounding YES but those books in all honesty I can count on both hands
This is where SDI comes in. Every student is a different reader, and we modify based on need. For example, I made "summary bookmarks" for kids that needed to quickly review their past reading before starting again. #g2great
A5: Keeping track of the books I read just inspired me to want to keep adding to my list!
I don’t think a log with minute/hours read would have the same effect 💕📚📖 #g2great
I want teacher to feel empowered to make their own decisions but empowerment comes with asking those kinds of questions. I love that you took a fresh look Rosemary. I worry that we often get in a DOING rut and never take the time to do that #G2Great
A4 A5 Wondering for upper grades is there a possibility to discuss how they would choose to show their reading life for their year with you? If we say one sixe doesn’t fit all and student choice/voice is valued, well then maybe...
#G2Great
We talked about this before -- I AM a slow reader. It takes me twice as long to finish a book as my peers. Does that make me a "bad" reader? No! #g2great
A5 I don’t believe for a moment that reading logs instill a lifelong love of learning. Reading texts we care about & engaging in conversations is how we accomplish that. Let’s not confuse the two. #G2Great
A5: I have a journal for what I learn from reading, conferences, classes but not a log to keep track of what I read. Unfortunately I have a vast library and debt for that. These strengthen my love of learning and reading.. #g2great
#g2great A5: In is my firm conviction, with experience as both a parent and a teacher, that reading logs do not create a lifelong love of reading. Time to read, choice of what to read, access to lots of books, the ability to talk about books with other readers..those do!
A4 Build trust. Create meaningful work and they will be accountable. Who wants to be accountable for meaningless work. Have conferences to create accountability. Build partnerships and collaborators. When Ss see you care, they will also care. #G2Great
A4 Many great options have been shared. I've been reading these books by @drgravityg and @ReneeDHouser. They have really helped me reflect on the role of conversation and use of notebooks to develop thinking about rdg! #G2Great
A5: Because reading logs are used as a way to track ourselves as a reader, I think finding more meaningful and authentic ways like conferences, reading partnerships, or creating book buzzes help continue the love of reading I wish for my students #g2great
We talked about this before -- I AM a slow reader. It takes me twice as long to finish a book as my peers. Does that make me a "bad" reader? No! #g2great
I honor slow readers too. The page number tracking isn't the same for everyone. It is based on their pace for that particular book. It changes with what they are reading. #g2great
A4 Many great options have been shared. I've been reading these books by @drgravityg and @ReneeDHouser. They have really helped me reflect on the role of conversation and use of notebooks to develop thinking about rdg! #G2Great
A5 Too much of what we do is devoid taking a laser look at our beliefs. Beliefs are not an empty agreement – they are promises we make to kids so should be the filter of all we do. PERIOD! #G2Great
A5: Logging is akin to keeping a nutrition or exercise journal - it shows the commitment. However, once it becomes a habit, it can be retired. The log is something you can always come back to when you set new goals for yourself or find yourself off track. #g2great
A5: I use @goodreads to review, share, learn about new titles. In a sense goodreads might be like a reading log - meaning I keep track of my reading, reflect on the books, and seek to grow by reading recommendation. #g2great
And page number certainly doesn’t mean much in terms of depth of thinking. I’m a slower reading but I read at a very deep level. I think that depth would be compromised if I had to worry about playing the page number game. #G2Great
A5: I think this is a hard question that doesn't have a yes or no. A reading log done right, that isn't punitive for students or parents could become a useful tool to help students keep track of their reading life. But the love of reading stems from free choice #g2great
Twitter chats and Voxer conversations help to deepen our commitment to learning as well. Anything that provides a connection and/or conversation is more important than the amount. #g2great
A5 I don’t believe for a moment that reading logs instill a lifelong love of learning. Reading texts we care about & engaging in conversations is how we accomplish that. Let’s not confuse the two. #G2Great
A5 I really think the joy you gain from reading a story, like Harry Potter 😇 is what instills life long learning. Recording on a log just seems to get in the way of enjoying a book. Talking about it with other excited friends is what got me! #g2great
A5 In real life, different people need different things. I think the same is true with reflecting on reading. Part of our job as Ts is to show kids options and help them figure what works for them—and why. #G2Great
A5 I don’t think reading logs help instill a love of learning. Nothing replaces a good teacher and amazing learning conversations. Logs when used periodically with purpose can help reflect and support students. But we need to focus on more effective strategies. #g2great
#g2great A3 I know that as a parent myself, the reading log was a chore. It wasn't consistently authentic, but rather forced. I'd much rather have Ss reading books bc they are drawn into the stories than bc I am requiring them to do so.
If some Ss genuinely like keeping track of their reading in logs, then let it be a choice. Introduce it as a tool, just one of the many ways we can honour our reading history. #G2Great
I think it's that retiring piece that we miss. Using them as a temporary structure can be a helpful way to see what students are reading but that’s where we go awry - they become more of a compliance driven mandate than a sort term support #G2Great
A5: Logging is akin to keeping a nutrition or exercise journal - it shows the commitment. However, once it becomes a habit, it can be retired. The log is something you can always come back to when you set new goals for yourself or find yourself off track. #g2great
A6, Record at least 3x a week with partner on flipgrid,
"The Best of the Best"
"What's the Best in the book you are currently reading?"
Make accessible to all.
Open up reading lives!
#g2great
A5 Is this a realistic, authentic practice? Does it enhance and support students' reading or is it an added task? Whose needs is it serving? Do readers do this in their reading lives outside of the classroom? If not, it is unlikely to grow readers. #g2great
Good point Jennifer! Sometimes I think people have negative feelings around reading logs because they have seen poor examples when used for accountability, Ss write summaries and grading the logs. All reading logs are not bad, the WHY is the important question! #G2Great
A5 What we expect of our students should guide our practices. If we want students to love reading then we have provide opportunities to show that in a way they love as well. Reading logs do not foster that love. #G2Great
A6, Record at least 3x a week with partner on flipgrid,
"The Best of the Best"
"What's the Best in the book you are currently reading?"
Make accessible to all.
Open up reading lives!
#g2great
A6 CONFERRING! These anecdotal notes in the heat of reading moments are powerful references that help us know kids as readers in authentic ways. I can’t say the same of reading logs. #G2Great
Hi Shaelynn! I liked all of your alternatives (especially PCI, which I have never heard of before). I think students may benefit from choosing from any of the options you mentioned or the traditional reading log. Open choice might encourage more students to do the assignment!
#g2great A5 pt. In other words if I were to be expected to record every book I read I'd need reams upon reams of paper I would simply be complying to make a list with little significance or meaning.
Different purposes. Saying, "I need a baseline so I'm collecting logs for two weeks. Then in 9 weeks . . . collect for another 2 weeks.
Boring
Monotonous
Data doesn't change if no instruction, perceived purpose, or value.
Seems to be a waste of good reading time!
#G2Great
A 5 Think of what you do when you’re into a book and love 💕 it! You want to talk about it with a friend. You encourage a friend to read it so you can talk about it! Talk is important because it deepens thinking and shows other interpretations. #g2great
Absolutely Letha. Some teachers are saying that they keep it for themselves. It’s important to model why and how but then offer some options for when, what where, how #G2Great
If some Ss genuinely like keeping track of their reading in logs, then let it be a choice. Introduce it as a tool, just one of the many ways we can honour our reading history. #G2Great
I think @goodreads can be a type of "reading log," but also a way to create that sense of community around literature. Reading logs on their own don't do that. #G2Great
#g2great A4 This year, we eliminated reading "packets" for the week & replaced that work with nightly reading for 30 minutes. Overall, this has been well received bc it's all about getting right books into Ss hands. As @pennykittle says, it's always the book that drives S.
A3 To continually examine our practices, we invite Ps to the conversation. We flip thru logs, noting how much we've grown, writing down diff's & setting future goals. The logs are like rdg confs - but, w/ parents, too! Perfect to use for student-led conferences! #G2Great
This is a great idea! As an interventionist, this could be something I ask my small groups to do. I think they would enjoy it and it would lead to meaningful conversations. #g2great#educ5359
I love that Fran because it’s as much about advertising as it is about identifying. Then the goal is to spread books from one hand to the next. That is more in line with our real goal! #G2Great
A6, Record at least 3x a week with partner on flipgrid,
"The Best of the Best"
"What's the Best in the book you are currently reading?"
Make accessible to all.
Open up reading lives!
#g2great
A6: Book Talks, monthly parties to just have snacks and sit and talk books. That is happening next year. Admittance price? Read one book this month and come prepared to share. Authentic and Awesome. #g2great
I whole-heartedly agree. When I think of a reading log I think of one that came out of the Lucy Calkins unit of study which had the kids write the title, author, genre, date started, minutes read, pages read, and where they read. My eyes came out of my head!! #G2Great
I think @goodreads can be a type of "reading log," but also a way to create that sense of community around literature. Reading logs on their own don't do that. #G2Great
A5 I keep track of the books I have read because I got tired of getting 3 pages in and realizing that I already read the book before. I picture minilessons on various reasons a reader might track the books they have read. #g2great
A6: Book Talks, monthly parties to just have snacks and sit and talk books. That is happening next year. Admittance price? Read one book this month and come prepared to share. Authentic and Awesome. #g2great
I do share my list of books I’ve read with my classes, especially in the beginning of the year when we talk about who we are as readers. Then after a break, they always want to know how many/what books I read. I can pull the list up quickly & book talk #g2great
A6: Record recommendations on Padlet for all students to access or make book talk video QR codes to attach to books they read and love. When students finish a book give time for conversations with a reading partner or myself #g2great
YES! YES! and YES! I love every one of those questions and if we aren’t willing to ask and answer them then maybe it’s about the tool and not the reader. I think we tend to covet our stuff and that’s how we go off the deep end. #G2Great
A5 Is this a realistic, authentic practice? Does it enhance and support students' reading or is it an added task? Whose needs is it serving? Do readers do this in their reading lives outside of the classroom? If not, it is unlikely to grow readers. #g2great
A6 I think Good Reads is an invaluable tool. Why do you have to be 13 to use it??? Social media, linking readers w/ readers, generating book recommendations, rating books, a natural list...we need a kid-sized version. #G2Great
A6: Peer independent reading accountability- Ss want to feel valued by the peers in a positive light. They typically don’t want to let each other down. There is power in peer conferencing. #G2Great
#g2great Since I’ll have a class set of iPads this year, I plan on doing the same. FlipGrid, Padlet, Clips, SeeSaw… lots of different ways to share reading lives.
A6) If you want to make sure they are reading at home, have them record a response and make sure you respond to it. Get the conversation going. THAT is what really matters. #G2Great
I track on my own, but it's more for me, not them. I keep my notes here, as well as page amounts they read. It helps me determine who to confer with, and I refer to it often. Do the kids see it? No. #g2great
A6 I started using flipgrid at the end of the year for students to interact and see what everyone was reading. I've been trying to read all the titles posted. #g2great
A4 I personally believe that reading logs are much more for reflection, celebration and inspiration. It's very clear through their conversations and laughter that their reading is real! #G2Great
A6: This year we wrote Amazon reviews and then made book recommendation commercials. Turned them to QR codes and hung in hallway for other students to check out. Want to do more of that type of thing. #G2great
A6: I've had students use a Reading journal instead before where they write about their wondering, favorite parts, etc each and get to share with their classmates during our morning meeting time. #G2Great
A6 My biggest change: model what I do to keep track of my reading and share openly with Ss. Help them see the benefit of taking that moment to pause at the end of a good book to take ownership of reading it, whether by writing, talking, or sharing digitally. #G2Great
#g2great A6 After trying several reading logs on paper I looked to technology and one of my favorite websites to use with Ss and families was Biblionasium! I highly recommend it as an engaging alternative. I still use it but with Ts! https://t.co/lpmc7fYmS1
A6: Pass the book onto another student with a recommendation note — perhaps a favorite character, setting, or favorite or not so favorite part! #g2great
#g2great A5 While reading logs list the "what" of reading, I'd much rather hear the "why" Ss are reading. Listening to the deeper conv. that occurs and how the story affects Ss hearts is so much more rewarding and applicable to real life experiences hands down!
I've thought about replacements for so long, and tried so much. There is no perfect way. In the end, the goal to get students to love and want to read. I weave the "checks" into my writing units, & quick writes, by teaching students to learn from the texts they read. #g2great
I love seeing people's responses to A6 is how we can add more conversation and community! It no longer has to be only the teacher seeing what the student is reading, it is their peers too!! LOVE #g2great
I did monthly reading workshop celebrations. We usually invited people in to read with us parents, school staff, members of the community, etc. The kids loved it and it made our reading time even more special. #g2great
A6: A structure I had in my classroom that Ss & I loved was a ring with large index cards for each S that hung on a bulletin board in the back. Ss completed a card for each book they read and LOVED - a rating, quote, blurb, picture. Ss browsed them for recommendations #g2great
A6 We don’t need to know what kids are reading EVERY second to see who they are as readers. Nothing will ever take the placing of our supportive conversations @ their reading. #G2Great
Well the was very odd. My twitter account was suddenly locked and I had to play the twitter game. Sorry I disappeared for a moment. Very strange #G2Great
A6 Booktalks, conferences, informal reader-to-reader conversations, class instagram acct, padlet, voxer groups, blogs are all ways that our reading lives can be visible to others. #G2Great
A 5 Think of what you do when you’re into a book and love 💕 it! You want to talk about it with a friend. You encourage a friend to read it so you can talk about it! Talk is important because it deepens thinking and shows other interpretations. #g2great
A6 Nothing replaces one on one conferences. Discussions, conversations, relationships, nothing is better than bonding around reading and learning. We need to remove pressures, reframe structures and put kids first. Challenge the status quo. Make it happen. #g2great
A6: More control for Ss to decide how to share their books. More authentic conversations between students. Move myself to observer/facilitator. #g2great
A7. Explore . . .
How do you energize and make the idea of using reading logs to Inspire readers?
Review with a partner: What book did partner read that you would like to read? Who else would like that book? Use partner's log to build TBR.
#g2great
#g2great A6 Since we eliminated reading logs, I suggest replacing them - it's so liberating! The "Someday List" is only list associated w/reading that I encourage. My conferring binder keeps record of what Ss are reading, struggling w/and what I notice about their reading.
A7 It’s not so much a shift as a reminder. We must continue conversations that call our practices to task. I respect what Ts do as long as it’s about thoughtful pondering & less blind doing. #G2Great
A7: Starting in September, I will have the Ts I work with engage in reflection about WHY they use the log. From there, we will adjust HOW they use it or IF they use it at all. #g2great
a7. It's the talk about what has been read.
With partners
Conferring
Advising
Handing off the book
Building rapport
Not filling in boxes on a page.
#G2Great
A7 I love the ideas of writing reviews and passing on books and celebrating readers! If my "why" is to get students reading loving books, make sure I'm assigning something that fosters that #G2Great
I want to continue my conferring with students, but also add in more chances for students to speak with one another, whether it be IR or book clubs. #G2Great
#g2great A7 There is rarely anything more powerful than "The Pause!" This is such a good reminder to pause and reflect on the purpose behind our practices. I plan to share the suggestions here with other teachers, thank you for sharing ideas and authentic alternatives.
A5 Our last prompt was to reflect thru the year's entries, wrtg the fam favs & tabbing their most powerful lrng. When 7 yr olds can reflect on the power of their rdgs & responses, yes! We're instilling a lifetime love of lrng! #G2Great
#g2great A7 There is rarely anything more powerful than "The Pause!" This is such a good reminder to pause and reflect on the purpose behind our practices. I plan to share the suggestions here with other teachers, thank you for sharing ideas and authentic alternatives.
A7 Tonight has helped me to see that there are many different views of IF and HOW reading logs fit. This will support my conversations with Ts I work with. #G2Great
A7: This chat also reminded me I am on the correct path. I truly try to say that in a humble way, as I still have a lot to learn. But I know that what I did a few years ago when I stopped requiring logs was the right choice for my class #g2great
A7 Make time for conversations. Reprioritize by putting kids first. Don’t be afraid to challenge ideas when you have solid research to back you up. Stand up for kids. #g2great
I’ve favorited many great tweets 2nite. It’s time to revisit RLog practice as a school & take some of your ideas to heart. As @DrMaryHoward has said, we must examine our practices if we plan 2 stay relevant #g2great
I love how passionate everyone feels about the subject. That’s the tipping point that sends us into great conversations! So happy you came tonight Jennifer #G2Great
A7: Great ideas and thoughts shared tonight! What I’m taking with me from this chat is that there needs to be a balance...accountability & scaffolding to inspire passionate readers
Logs are NOT the only way to go.
#g2great
Again, it's keeping the why in the forefront. Is this something I want to change? I'd be curious to see if @pennykittle still does this since Book Love was written. #g2great
In reply to
@SHKrajewski, @DrMaryHoward, @pennykittle
#g2great A6 After trying several reading logs on paper I looked to technology and one of my favorite websites to use with Ss and families was Biblionasium! I highly recommend it as an engaging alternative. I still use it but with Ts! https://t.co/lpmc7fYmS1
#g2great I find that sometimes I need reassurance that I’m on the right path. It’s easy to listen to the doubting voice. This is one of the reasons I love Twitter. My ideas and thinking can get pushed but can also get reinforced. I need both.
A7 I'm going to be mindful of @vrkimmel's comment earlier about being respectful of our students' reading lives. What a powerful lens for reflecting on literacy practices. (Thanks, friend!) #G2Great
Q7. Increase read alouds and shared reading in class. Provide parents with help as needed. Allow time in class to share the books read at home...read them in class to motivate other students. #g2great
I’m so grateful fo you Lanny. It was such an honor to have you with us tonight - yes examine examine examine. Happy bedtime with the kids my friend! #G2Great
I’ve favorited many great tweets 2nite. It’s time to revisit RLog practice as a school & take some of your ideas to heart. As @DrMaryHoward has said, we must examine our practices if we plan 2 stay relevant #g2great
We need these kind of conversations in our schools. We can’t just DO w/o considering the implications our choices have on kids. Collegial conversations are critical. #G2Great
A7: Remembering that anything we do in the classroom should be focused on our students’ needs, interests, and strengths. If it isn’t building them up as readers, find something new that will #G2Great
A7: While I quit Reading Logs years ago because it didn't follow my why, I am excited to go back and read all the tweets from tonight of ideas that will support my goal of helping build a love of reading in Ss. #G2Great
A7: Teach students to build relationships with books. Help them find their love of reading through conversations about books. Celebrate books that build lasting relationships. Share personal whys for how the book worked for the reader. #g2great
Retweeted Laura Robb (@LRobbTeacher):
A 7 Follow Donald Graves’ advice: get in touch with your own literacy life. Listen to students’ suggestions and keep learning authentic. #g2great
A5 I keep track of the books I have read because I got tired of getting 3 pages in and realizing that I already read the book before. I picture minilessons on various reasons a reader might track the books they have read. #g2great
I’m going to add a final challenge to each of you. It’s not about defending our practices but having conversations and really taking a zoom lens to how they do or do not benefit our kids. Our children should be the deciding factor ALWAYS! #G2Great
Thank you all for participating in our #g2great chat about reading logs. It's so nice to try out some of the ideas on our own reading during the summer!
