#MasteryChat is a weekly chat with a growing family of educators from around the word focused on teaching better and reaching more students. Topics cover an array of challenges and solutions for teachers of all grade levels and subject areas, admins, and support staff.
#MasteryChat occurs every Thursday at 8:00pm eastern.
The chat was created by team at @thegridmethod, but is hosted by guest moderators each week. Our primary moderators are @techieteachott, @raehugart, and @jeffgargas.
A1: Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein & Between Shades of Gray by @RutaSepetys have stuck with me since re-reading them. There's power in reading a book you love again. I encourage my students to re-read books and look for things they missed the first time. #masterychat
Hello! Chad Ostrowski here, from Canton, OH. I work with teachers, schools and district sharing @thegridmethod and so much more to help them reach more students! #masterychat
Hello. My name is Susan, and I am officially a 1st year teacher. I just signed my contract today and got a chance to see my classroom. I am so excited and have a lot to think about, but I am confident I am ready for the amazing things next year will bring. #MasteryChat
Good evening, all! I'm Tami, originally from California but have been living and teaching down in Mexico since 2009. Buenas noches a todos! #MasteryChat#teachmindful
Tiffany Ott here and I am JAZZED up for tonight's #masterychat! This is my first Thursday of summer break and I am full of energy and ready to type type type all night long. :)
A1: I just finished "The Serpent's Secret" and really enjoyed it. Was a great fantasy read with diverse and rich characters.
#MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A1: Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein & Between Shades of Gray by @RutaSepetys have stuck with me since re-reading them. There's power in reading a book you love again. I ask students to re-read a favorite and look for things they missed the first time. #MasteryChat
A1: Harry Potter. After my fifth grade teacher destroyed reading for me, my 6th grade teacher helped me fall back in love with reading through this series. #masterychat@SarahCaseyPE
A1: I absolutely love Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper. I read it in a day. May be in part that is is about a girl with CP and I am a SPED teacher. #MasteryChat
A1 - All time - Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut. Read it at 15 and read it about once a year still. It just resonated with me in so many ways. Recently, the Three Body Problem by Cixin Liu was a masterclass in combining SciFi and real science in a great plot. #MasteryChat
A1 Innovators Mindset from @GCouros. Its an inspiring framework with true, manageable action you can implement in your classroom at any point. Be an innovator!
#masterychat
A1 Well gee I can't say just one: Empower, Teach Like A Pirate, Kids Deserve It, Culterize, Ditch That Textbook, Lead Like a Pirate, Explore Like A Pirate #MasteryChat
A1: A book that I have read and loved was "Kind is the new classy: by @candacecameronbure. It was truly a great read and inspired me to continue to teach from the heart just like @NowakRo and many others. #MasteryChat
A1: The Kite Runner by @khaledhosseini. OMG. I'm not a big reader, ironically, but this one had me hooked. The movie is beautiful, and the soundtrack is, too. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A1: "The Charm Bracelet" by Viola Shipman. Almost done with another by the same author, "The Recipe Box" Similar theme about honoring where you came from! #masterychat
A1: Charlotteās Web made me fall in love with reading as a child. Iāve read it so many times: as a child, as a teacher, as a mom. . . A true classic. #masterychat#SparksInTheDark
A1) Recently finished reading The Alchemist by @paulocoelho . Had to read it before teaching the Ss, but oh was it a joy! Delightful and insightful piece! #readmore#MasteryChat
A1: Brian Selznick's The Invention of Hugo Cabret. Second year in a row I've read this with my class (and my own kids) and I STILL CRY EVERY TIME IN MULTIPLE PLACES! I should wear a warning sign w/ my Ss...WARNING-TEACHER MAY CRY! #MasteryChat
A1: Easily one of my all time favorite books would have to be "The Death Cure"... unfortunately the movies didn't do the books justice. Fantastic, young adult sci-fi thriller and away from my usual history book ;) #masterychat#SparksInTheDark
A1 - One of my favorite books is Neil Shubin's "Your Inner Fish". I think this is a great example of teaching through engaging examples and connections. Making authentic connections that help explicitly define context is a powerful tool any teacher can use. #masterychat
A1: Al Michael's book "You can't make this up." Lots of great stories and background information about some major sporting events and people. #MasteryChat
A1: Iām a big fan of crime/thriller. I really enjoyed Girl on the Train a couple of summers ago. I also liked The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The material is very mature, but suspenseful and entertaining. #MasteryChat
A1: A book that I have read and loved was "Kind is the new classy" by @candacecameronbure. It was truly a great read and inspired me to continue to teach from the heart just like @NowakRo and many others. #MasteryChat#MasteryChat
A1 It is really hard to answer this question because I have SO many! I am a big science fiction fan and always come back to "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" and "Ender's Game." #masterychat
A1: Favorite Childrenās Book:
Stan the Hot Dog Man.
Favorite Books Series:
Harry Potter
Favorite Book as an Adult:
The Definitive Guide to Body Language.
#MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
Maury from Tennessee. Gif and Batman fan. My answers will be sporadic tonight, family walk. My favorite book I've read would probably be the Gregor the Overlander series. #MasteryChat
Hi Everyone! I'm Lisa Steward from Dallas, TX. I am currently teaching 5th Grade Reading in Summer School and will be starting a new position as an ESL Specialist this Fall! #MasteryChat
A1) Daughter of Fortune was life-changing though. By @isabelallende Met her too in college. Wonderful person! I guess I'm a fan of magical realism! #MasteryChat#goodbooks
A2: I wrote fiction, both chapter books & short stories, early in my childhood around age 4. I would stitch together pieces of paper and collect ideas inside. Eventually, a story would take shape. I still have some of them. #MasteryChat
A2: I used to write in a journal all the time as a child. I loved knowing I could put my heart on the page without fear of judgement.
#MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A1) Adult book I loved the audio book of Magnolia Story! @chipgaines and @joannagaines are amazing and I loved their story so much. Really uplifting and relatable. #MasteryChat
A1: I Need My Monster by Amanda Knoll is a class favorite in my room! Also Turkey Trouble by Wendy Silvano (great for teaching story grammar) #MasteryChat
A1: The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo is a beautiful story with tremendous depth. Everyone 9-99 should read it and will be enlightened by its messages. #MasteryChat
A2: I was 2 years old. I wasn't speaking yet, so my parents got me a handwriting book and I remember tracing capital A over and over. It was actually my first memory. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
#masterychat A1 Robinson Crusoe - went to Trinidad last year and walked down on a beach to see sea turtles laying eggs...and for the first time in decades, thought of Robinson Crusoe and realized I was standing where it was inspired.
Hey #masterychat - jumping in a few minutes late (story of my life!). Alicia from NC - Lead Digital Learning & Media Innovation Facilitator at a STEM magnet middle school
Most Ohio schools are getting out this early the last few years. State testing is in April, so they are starting school earlier to get more instructional time in. We go back second week of August! #masterychat
A2) When I was in 4th grade and wanted to write a book. I got a blank journal and wrote about a little girl who grew up in a pioneer family. #MasteryChat
A2: I used to always be so scared of allowing others to see my writing. Even today I still get scared with every blog post (or book) I write.
#MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A2: As a child, I can remember writing short stories and Creative Writing class in H.S. really allowed me to express my passion for it. I have an idea for an educator book, but fear it wouldn't work out :( #masterychat#daretodream#SparksInTheDark
And then I filled notebooks by the dozen with nonfiction writing about reptiles and dinosaurs. My paper consumption was out of control. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A2: I had a second grade teacher who made us write a lot. We used to write stories and illustrate all of them. She was the first teacher who really stressed the importance of writing. #MasteryChat
A2: I remember writing thank you notes for birthday and Christmas gifts! I still do! There's still something special about getting a handwritten note or letter. #masterychat
A2- There must have been times before this, but the most meaningful that sticks is my diary. I can remember receiving my first one- how thrilling the shiny lock was and how special it felt to have a place to put all my secrets. #MasteryChat
A1 Books I (re)read recently that I love: Art Objects, Blah Blah Blah (although thatās sort of PD), The World Beyond Your Head (ditto), Electric Arches (same). Everything is kinda PD. #MasteryChat
A2: #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat My first memory is sending letters to my cousin in NY. We would hand write letters weekly to each other. The longer the letter the more excited we got.
A2) I vaguely remember writing a page for a book in kindergarten. What I remember most was being able to design the cover and getting the chance to take it home for a night to read with my parents. #MasteryChat
A1: One of the most memorable books I have read and loved was The Lottery Rose by Irene Hunt. I also just finished The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Attwood... couldn't put it down! #MasteryChat
A2) Wrote music at a young age! My sisters and I sang. Writing songs didn't quite translate to love of poetry, but definitely of love of creativity! #MasteryChat
A2 - One of my first memories of writing is when I did a biography of myself in middle school. I couldn't believe I had produced such a complex work. It took all year but my teacher did a great job making it manageable and allowed all of us to feel successful. #masterychat
A2 I remember writing in school... Ick! My spelling was dreadful, my reading
was horrid, and don't even get me started on trying to then actually
understand it all. #masterychat
A2: My first memory of writing was in my diary as a 6 or 7 year old. I have always loved to write, when I am given freedom about what I write. I hate writing to prompts. #MasteryChat
A2: 6th grade. In a conference my English teacher said my hand writing was phenomenal but it was killing my pace. I needed to stop being a perfectionist.
#masterychat
A2 When I was around 6 my brothers would daw cartoons and I would write the accompanying captions. I have recently found some of our creations and they do not disappoint š #MasteryChat#thenextJKRowling
A2: I remember writing my first ābookā in kindergarten! It was called āI was Jem Last Halloweenā I could still recite all three pages! #masterychat
A1: The Road by Cormac McCarthy is one of the most beautiful books ever written. Taught it for years (before kids); believe in it forever (now that I have two kids). #MasteryChat
Can't recall first memory of writing, but still very proud of my first poem "Spinach" What sits on your plate, isn't so great, slushy, mush and green? It's the most awful fool, you don't want to chew, and I wouldn't eat it if I were you!" #masterychat
A2: My first memory of writing was probably writing with my Auntie who was a teacher and always had some inspiring ideas and ways to make writing fun!
#MasteryChat
A2 First memory is writing in Portuguese back in Portugal but my first memory of writing in the English is not so great. Full of frustration for not being able to put my thoughts into the writing. #masterychat
A2: My first memory of writing isāsadlyānot when I was a student in school, but a student in college. I wrote about growing up in a house full of domestic violence with an abusive stepfather. (Sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but itās #Truth) #masterychat
A2. In 1st grade my best friend and I would write stories at recess and during free time that my teacher would let us read to the class at the end of the day. <3 #MasteryChat
A2: I wrote an essay when my grandfather died entitled, āWhy my Grandpa was Special to me.ā I was not any older than 10. I still have it! #MasteryChat
I have no fears about blogging or writing papers but I've been sitting on a novel for 2 years and I'm terrified to share it. God forbid people find out what's in my imagination #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A2-My first memoryof writing would be the little stories I wrote in first grade. I drew pictures and wrote the silliest stories, but my teacher made me feel like they were amazing works.#masterychat#SparksInTheDark
A2: I remember creating an All About Me Book when I was in 2nd Grade. My mom and I even went all out and had it bonded together at Kinkos! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A2 - Writing a Godzilla versus teenage King Kong in fifth grade because I was obsessed with monster movies and wanted to travel so badly. Before that writing was painful because it was not writing, but handwriting and spelling. I did not do well in those subjects. #MasteryChat
A2: As a toddler I always loved doodling and pretending it was writing...in my way it was! My Grandma used to send me beautiful stationary starting in 2nd grade for me to write her letters in the mail! I LOVED she did that to engage me and speak from afar! #MasteryChat
A2 First memories of witing are painful. I had horrible handwriting and my pencil never rmoved fast enough for my ideas to get from my brain to the paper. Writing was tedious and frustrating until I learned how to type in 3rd gade. #masterychat
Hello #MasteryChat ! I am a little late but happy to be here! My name is Lauren and I just finished my first year in the elementary ed program at the university of regina! :)
A2: I don't have a memory of writing. I have never really considered myself a writere. However, I do feel I can write a pretty comprehensive evaluation report along with IEP. #MasteryChat
A2: My first memory of writing is in probably 3rd grade. I participated in UIL Creative Writing and did very well since I was so competitive.
Writing was something I enjoyed very much. #masterychat
A2 My first poem:
Anninagen
Fell on her knee
And she got a booboo
And mommy will kiss it
And make it all better
And thatās the story Morning Laurie
(circa 1979) #MasteryChat
A2: I always wrote my deepest thoughts in pretty, locked diaries as a young child; but it was a poem I wrote in middle school of which I received much praise at the time from my parent, will be considered āmy first piece.ā #MasteryChat
A1: āTo Keep You is No Benefit, To Destroy You is No Loss.ā Not a feel good book, but I remember being shocked that this had happened. #MasteryChat
A2: My first memory of writing was in 3rd grade where we had to create these mini books about our memories and important aspects of our lives. I still have that book, and I believe that writing from a young age helped cultivate that desire to write. #MasteryChat
A2 I don't have a first memory, I just always loved to read and write. I found my folder of my book reports recently from my Elem days. Printed on a dot matrix printer! #MasteryChat
A2: my first memories of writing were all about writing my own stories! I loved creating my own ideas and sharing them with others! (even if they didn't make a whole lot of sense!) #MasteryChat
So does my daughter! She loves to organize her lists and then rewrite them in perrfect handwriting (I think she must have ben switched at birth, because she didn't get it from me!) #masterychat
A2: I remember writing journals in first grade. Funny thing, my mom kept one of these and gave it to me for Christmas a couple years ago! You shouldāve seen how I spelled VCR! Lol #MasteryChat
A2: I know it certainly isnāt the earliest, but I remember writing some sort of report in fourth grade and being so incredibly frustrated when I had to rewrite the whole thing because my rough draft had one or two mistakes. #masterychat
A2: I wrote two books in 3rd grade. One was a book of poems and another was realistic fiction. I mailed them to a publisher, but the publisher returned them to me. I was crushed. #masterychat
A2 Another writing memory: instead of writing a research report on medieval food, I pretended to be a journalist interviewing medieval farmers and cooks. I was so nervous when everyone else had their reports and I had my cassette tape. #MasteryChat
Somewhere. It was so much fun to write and I just remember my teacher smiling and understanding so quickly that I just needed to have fun. #masterychat
A2 First memory is writing in Portuguese back in Portugal but my first memory of writing in the English is not so great. Full of frustration for not being able to put my thoughts into the writing. #masterychat
A women's group that I belong to purchases books for 1st and 2nd graders at a low-income school in our district each spring! The looks on their faces when they're told the get to keep it forever, in priceless! #masterychat
A2 My first memory of writing was the journal I kept as a child. We would get one every Christmas. I canāt remember any real writing in school until reports in 5th grade. We had language lessons instead. #masterychat
A3: Talk is a powerful tool to use in the classroom. I use book talks, read alouds, reading ladders, common texts, mentor texts, and core texts to engage all students. I feel that conversation is the key. Talking about books (small & large group) generates interest. #masterychat
A2: Learning the alphabet in 1st grade is my 1st memory of letters. I canāt remember earlier than 5th grade writing creatively. I was always drawing! š#MasteryChat
That is the reasons I encourage typing skills and even voice typing with my students. I don't want their hatred of the physical act of writing to destroy their desire to write! #masterychat
A3: I feel like every child is a reader, but they have not found the right book yet. As a new teacher, I am working on creating my classroom library while creating a comfortable atmosphere for my Ss. #MasteryChat
A3) Helping them find books that interest them and making reading fun. Itās about finding the right books that allow a Ss to enjoy and feel successful #MasteryChat
A3 - I use @thegridmethod to engage all students by creating a personalized and reactive learning environment that can truly meet the needs, pace and level of every single student! #masterychat
Sometimes writing about the most vulnerable and heartbreaking struggles of our lives can be therapeutic and a release....even for those who let nobody else read them. #MasteryChat
A2: I remember having notebooks and colored pens and āwritingā stories that Iād share with my mom. To this day, I love a good journal and go crazy about pens! #masterychat#SparksInTheDark
It had (and has) such power to transport me into other worlds and ignite my imagination. And oh my, what themes there are that exist in science fiction! Such a rich genre! #masterychat
A3: It's interesting because I'm the ESL teacher who rarely reads novels, but I spend an hour a day reading the news. Find something they like, and give them a chance to read an ENTIRE book, not just excerpts. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
Youāre exactly right. Iāve written and given speeches on domestic violence a lot. It was my outlet to vent and release the pain and anger I was feeling, but do so in a positive way - to help others. #masterychat
A3: By making sure they are reading high interest books at their level or that weāre reading to them high interest books. They need to enjoy the stories, so they want more!! #MasteryChat
It is hard in the land of comparison. But I teach my kids to make their own stories. Read the words or make up your own. That way no book is ever too hard. I hate leveled books defining what a child thinks they can read. They can read anything! #masterychat
A3: we can let these students choose books that interest them. We can also introduce them to others who have similar interest and have them share recommendations! #MasteryChat
You have to help them make the connection with the book. Be a good reader role model. Share what you like with them. Try all types of books too. #ComicsCount#MasteryChat
A3a: You've got to find the "right" book for each kid. When Ss tell me they hate to read, I remind them that they don't hate reading; they just don't like anything they've read THUS FAR & encourage them to keep looking. #MasteryChat
A3 Teach them how to find the right book. I don't read fiction anymore, bc tbh I don't know how to pick a book I will like. it is very overwhelming to me #MasteryChat
A3: They absolutely have to see us reading and hear us talking about reading. And I donāt mean in teachspeak. I mean like we would if we were talking about Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead. #MasteryChat
A3: first model a love for reading ourselves. Next, support learners where they are at in their reading level. I personally love NewsELA because reading levels can be set and as students become more proficient their level of difficulty increases.
#masterychat
A3 - Give choice and respect those choices. If they want to read something, let them. I had a teacher tell me that he discourages reading a book because he doesn't like it. That does not honor choice and may turn the student against reading. #MasteryChat
A3) Shared about this on another chat but #audiobooks are amazing for many of my Ss. We listen to them for each unit. One S not interested in reading later found the #audio for Lord of the Flies! Now she's hooked! @audible_com#DiffEdu#MasteryChat#SparksintheDark
A3~ exposure to all kinds of books, print, digital ~ whatever it takes to get them engaged & the priority is Ss voice & choice in selections #masterychat
A3: I think back to what started me with reading, and still gets me to read, my excitement for the book. We have to know our students, their interests, and how to support them. #MasteryChat
A3: Engage students through student choice, culturally inclusive titles, and expose to all genres! Ts should also model a love of literacy! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3: I love to read to my groups. My struggling readers don't always get exposed even though they can comprehend at a pretty high level. Sitting & reading & having conversations about the book is just the best. They have insight that I don't always think about. #MasteryChat
Resources for creativity-fosterers, test/life-rebalancers, mental-health-strengtheners, character-valuers, big-stuff-care-abouters...
For those who view their students as more than a test score:
https://t.co/LFJTkUejOA#masterychat#mschat#mdeschat#colchat
A.3 I strive all year to show my kids ALL kids are readers, they just have to find the right text! So many of them think reading means books so we delve into anything and everything with words! #masterychat
A3b: I'm a reluctant reader myself. I find myself drawn to very few books, but usually, I read books after seeing the film versions and getting hooked. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3 To engage any student in reading, we can help them connect reading to their values. How is reading this book important to me? How was it part of living a meaningful life? Learn more: https://t.co/qjyOOgKjGL#MasteryChat
A3b: Make books come alive for Ss. Like anything else, they have to see the relevance to their own lives. I facilitate in a book club in which we focused on book to movie adaptations this year. It was so much fun! #MasteryChat
A3 We take trips to the library so they can get books and our librarian is the BEST at helping kids find the perfect book. I also tried to have Fun Book Fridays to encourage kids to read something they are interested in that isn't required for school #MasteryChat
A3: I think it is important to find different ways of kids engaging in books not just through reading. I use books to teach kids yoga which allows them to have a deeper understanding of the story. It is also fun to hear the story online(from different perspectives).
#MasteryChat
Allowing students choice in their books. Helping them find books on their level and on their preferred platform-I find some of my students read much more if itās a book on the computer...thanks @EpicKidsBooks#masterychat
A3: #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat I think the trick is to read books to the kids so they can step outside their comfort zone and get exposure to different books. Also, to get to know your kiddos so you can guide them to their genre or author. Everyone has a book to connect with.
A3: By figuring out ways to provide students books that they are truly interested in. Taking the time to invest in the student to figure out their interests to then discover what needs to be on your shelves! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3: Reading aloud, regardless of Ss age. I teach middle schoolers and they LOVE when we read even a short excerpt from a book that relates to what we are learning in math. Also, sharing what you are reading and asking them about their interests to make connections! #MasteryChat
A3 Give them CHOICE! Make time to read at school. Be patient when they need time to build trust in you and risk doing something theyāve avoided. #masterychat
I like to create a class @Flipgrid for book recommendations! Students can get online through a link in Google Classroom and record a super casual book talk to share their latest read with their classmates! #masterychat
A3 With my Els I used to use leveled readers but they just didn't seem to do it. I now use @newsela. These are current event articles at 5 different reading levels. The Ss are able to read about the same topic but at their appropriate reading level. #masterychat
A3- Let them have choice. When we find books that interest them and speak to them we build a love for reading. Not just that, it also helps build a strong foundation between each other. Book talks/conferences are SO important in helping build readers as well. #masterychat
A3: KNOW YOUR STUDENTS! We donāt just find any book, we must find āTHEā book. The book that inspires, ignites passion, encourages imagination! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3: first model a love for reading ourselves. Next, support learners where they are at in their reading level. I personally love NewsELA because reading levels can be set & as students become more proficient their level of difficulty increases. Build a foundation &
#masterychat
Some of my best conversations with kids have revolved around mutually recommending and talking about recent reads. I've even connected with a few of them on GoodReads! #masterychat
A3) On varied books, some of my Ss loved Romeo & Juliet. Reading a play really brings characters to life and promotes interaction more than a typical novel. #SparksInTheDark#masterychat
A3: I also find it important to read what your students read, to be up to date with the latest young adult books, and show interest in them / let them see you read. It may spark that curiosity inside they need to pick up a book. #masterychat
A3. My son does not like to read. Except for Star Wars books. And he wont stop reading them. At least he is reading. Find what interest them and let them go. #masterychat
#masterychat#SparksInTheDark A3 We read excellent books aloud to them, regardless of their age and ability. We do not kill the joy by making them take turns reading aloud. We use @Flipgrid for book talks and promos. We ask them to decide which books we should buy.
For sure. In 2000, I introduced my seniors to Charlie from The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and my school was never the same. Thatās all it took. One fictional kid telling a very real story. #masterychat
YES. Culturally relevant titles and diverse genres. If most of the authors on your summer reading list are white and/or male, time to reconsider that list. #MasteryChat
A3: Engage students through student choice, culturally inclusive titles, and expose to all genres! Ts should also model a love of literacy! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
#masterychat A3 To engage Ss to read, try reading to them stories you wrote. ( relationship builder! ) I read a story about me getting bullied when I was in 5th and 6th grade every year on #ReadAcrossAmerica day. They LOVE IT! It's also in my book coming out this fall.
A3: KNOW YOUR STUDENTS! We donāt just find any book, we must find āTHEā book. The book that inspires, ignites passion, encourages imagination! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3: Reading can take on many different forms - paperback, hardback, digital, audio, etc. Don't limit literacy for your readers in the classroom. Encourage exploration! #masterychat
You have to make it a fun journey that gets them engaged and excited to search out books or try new ones! Check out what I did at my school to start the fire of excitement https://t.co/m7lyYY1JM2#MasteryChat
A3: By selecting books with characters or themes that students can relate to. I just finished THUG with my students and even my most reluctant readers loved it! #masterychat
A3. We have to read and know books. We have to offer options. I have comic books, nonfiction, mysteries, sci-fi and fantasy. We have to know our kids and hook them. This year we wrote short book recommendations. Next year I am going to have Ss create QR codes @Seesaw#masterychat
My 3rd graders really like the A-Z Mystery series, with Ruth Rose, Dink and Josh. The connections they remembered and made between the different stories was fantastic. #MasteryChat
A2: I would write these weird pseudo-comics. They would be these scenes, almost like video game levels. I would draw the main character at the start (something awesome like a ninja obviously), and then draw him advancing through "stages" and beating up bad guys. #masterychat
A3 The most successful strategy for me has been to help students explore a wide variety of books- even if they don't consider themselves readers, there is SOMETHING out there that can pull them in. Graphic novels? Sure! Sports books? Yes! #masterychat
A3: Having them choose what they read is key! Learn as much as you can about YA Lit. Read alongside your students. Encourage them by setting aside time in class to read.!ā¤ļø#MasteryChat#ProjectLITbookclub@watkinskaleb
A3: KNOW YOUR STUDENTS! We donāt just find any book, we must find āTHEā book. The book that inspires, ignites passion, encourages imagination! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
I read novels with my Ss! I read to them, they read to me, and we listen to audio books. This year during independent reading time Iāll allow my Ss to read with a friend if they can agree on a book and find two copies between our class and school libraries. #masterychat
That sounds lovely! I lost track of FBF midway through the year but picked it back up as we got into testing season and my kids were quick to remind me when I forgot last week! #masterychat
A3: I have met my match this year. Spent hundreds on requested titles, genres and styles for a student. They request it see I bought it for them and then refuse. So not totally sure #masterychat
A3: I encourage reading by dressing up as a character or with challenges. I think if they see me having fun, then they will be interested too. Iāve been known to bring live animal to our #mybookfair to encourage kids to buy and read new books. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A3c: I have to add... stop banning books! We want kids to love reading but schools come up with excuses for why the best books shouldn't be taught. Not cool. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
#masterychat A2 A little ditty in my head told me to start writing down the phrases that were coming to me in 1989 ( my last year of college ). Pictured is my 1st phrase (sums up my life purpose). I am almost to 800 phrases now. I use these to decorate my room.
A3: HIGH INTEREST books are key! I will do ANYTHING to find texts for all levels of readers in areas they want to learn more about (paperback, electronic, recordings). A GREAT READ ALOUD for ALL takes the pressure off Ss readers, sit back & just IMAGINE & LISTEN! #MasteryChat
A3: I believe the answer lies within not forcing kids to read literature they cannot connect with. I did not enjoy reading the Scarlet Letter but I LOVED reading other things. Student choice is key. #MasteryChat
A3b: @RogersReads was started by some of our fabulous Ts at our school (Rogers MS) to show Ss and Ts that were ācaughtā reading. I love seeing the faces and books that pop up on their feed! #MasteryChat
A3: Finding books on topics they are interested in. Every child/person is a reader they just need to discover the book that is right for them. Building a diverse classroom library for students to explore helps them discover a love of reading. #MasteryChat
And show them how excited YOU are! The more into a story I get, the more excited the students are. It always kills me when a teacher proclaims to the class that they HAVE to read a certain book. They will not buy in if you don't! #masterychat
Moving students to develop a love of reading takes a shift in teacher thinking. If we want them to become readers, we have to start from a place of love. Their interests will guide them. We can steer, but we have to give them the agency. #masterychat
A3 The most successful strategy for me has been to help students explore a wide variety of books- even if they don't consider themselves readers, there is SOMETHING out there that can pull them in. Graphic novels? Sure! Sports books? Yes! #masterychat
A4: Students need models for reading and writing to engage. Helping them develop & sustain reading/writing lives is a main goal of my classroom. I need them to see me as a writer & a reader, including my successes, failures, struggles, & slumps. #masterychat
A3: Branch out! You'd be amazed at the usage of graphic novels and comics int the classroom to connect with your ss in multiple subjects! Need ideas check out @historycomics#masterychat
A4: Just like we talk about in #SparksInTheDark, you can't convince a child of the power of reading and writing if YOU aren't reading and writing yourself and sharing it with your students and colleagues!! #MasteryChat
A4 - We must continue to strive to #teachbetter and NEVER stop learning as educators. Learning more through reading and articulating and reflecting on our philosophies as educators is a great way to do this and can absolutely improve our craft! #masterychat
A4: I mentioned this in a video for @DisruptedTv, if we want to be live long learners, then we need to model that. If we continue to read and write, so can our students! #masterychat
A4: If Ss see their Ts reading and writing, they are more likely to be interested in reading & writing themselves. Like everything else, Ts model for Ss. Do what I do, not what I say :-) #MasteryChat
A3: This year I engaged students in books by using Epic. My students have disabilities in reading fluency and thankfully Epic has an assortment of books that have the capability to be read to the student. Excellent way for students to earn AR points. #masterychat
A4 - Students need to see us reading and writing. On our last day this year, I brought the books I plan to read this summer to class to share with the students. I often bring my writing to class and we analyze it. It shows them that we get to do it, too. #MasteryChat
A4: #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat I think that when you are passionate, they kids can feel it and sense the excitement you have for it. Teachers that love to read/write will teach it with love and passion because the want the students to love to read/write.
A4: Just like we talk about in #SparksInTheDark, you can't convince a child of the power of reading and writing if YOU aren't reading and writing yourself and sharing it with your students and colleagues!! #MasteryChat
A4: We as teachers must lead by example! How can we expect our students to be passionate about reading and writing if we don't show that passion ourselves? #MasteryChat
A4: We have to share our struggles and successes in writing. We have to share our processes and put it all out there with our students. That's how we truly engage them. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A4: Ss will always look to their Ts. When we are authentic authors and readers, we will grow the same in Ss. There's no faking it til you make it in this realm. #masterychat
A4: I try to show kids how writing is literally part of everyday life. When they see me writing an appeal for parking tickets during lunch or an email or something for my website, they learn the value in being a strong communicator. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A4: I think that students always look up to their teachers and its important that we model positive connections to reading and writing ourselves as educators!
#MasteryChat
A4: Ss know when you ask them to do things that you are not comfortable with doing yourself. Itās harder to get buyi-n if the last time you have written/read anything was in your college days. Itās about connecting to passions and being able to relate to the struggle #MasteryChat
#masterychat#SparksInTheDark A4 Students need to see us engaged in reading and writing. We should share our stories with them. As models, we make it real for them. We build connections. If it is something only students do, they will not see the purpose.
A4 Ss need to know that adults read and write. It is not just about an assignment. Many Ss donāt have a lot of books at home and they donāt see adults read. Our own book talks help them become lifelong readers #masterychat
A4) The more we read and write the more we learn and are able to build into the classroom or give recommendations. We are also models for our students and they need to see us reading and writing to show relevance and connection #MasteryChat
#masterychat- A2: I've always loved writing! I liked stories and poems best, followed by letters. As an adult, I used to write a gratitude journal and our former music teacher and I wrote a lot of songs together. I also write RAPS for my S's .
A4: Students need adults who model reading, especially in this age of technology. We need to be that model and share what we're reading about. #masterychat
#masterychat A1 One of my favorite books is "The Call of the Wild" Loved reading this book to my @campcayuga campers when I was a counselor WAY BACK in 1989 and 1990. #AlwaysBelieve
It makes me constantly think about my students while I'm reading. I think - I wonder if they would like this - or I think "yikes" I'm not really a fan - this must be what my students are thinking when they read a book they don't like. #masterychat
A4: To get students excited about reading and writing, YOU have to be excited about reading and writing! This will show in your teaching and how you approach each lesson! #MasteryChat
I am going to go through this chat tomorrow and make a master list of all the books mentioned. I'll post it tomorrow! #masterychat#summerreading#bookclub
A4: Also, students need to see relevance. When we finish a book we love, we want to write & talk about it. We should give students the same opportunities. #masterychat
A4b: I also let them see me reading for information. "Miss, what are you reading?" "I'm trying to figure out how to..." "Oh, damn. Cool." #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A4: I share my personal books from home and let my Ss see how I track "small moments" in my planner. Ss see that I "practice what I preach." #masterychat
To TEACH reading and writing with authenticity and connective depth, one must THINK like a reader and writer outside of the classroom, regularly. #MasteryChat
A4 I think my excitement and obvious enjoyment of reading is catching. Talking about books we all loved when we were younger adds a common bond. #MasteryChat
A4 I think students need to see teachers as readers and writers but they also need to know that maybe you struggled with one of them too. S's feel teachers can do everything well #MasteryChat
A2: I used to love writing my own books. A tchr showed us how to sew pages together and add a hard cover. I made up stories and added my own illustrations. I still have a few of them. #MasteryChat
Q4: If you lead by example and model reading, students will be more likely to follow. If you see a book on SS desks, ask them about it, take interest. You will build rapport and students will know it's COOL to read. Sorry this movie scene came to mind #model#masterychat
A4) The more you read & write, the better you understand the process; the better you develop your own strategies; the more you can draw on your own experiences; the better reading and writing teacher you become. #MasteryChat
We just had a speaker who is going to speak w/ our families talk about the imporatance of the love of reading. Reading shouldn't be a task to check off, but a love that you can't wait to get to. #MasteryChat
A4: We need to be a consistent model for Ss that EVERYONE benefits from reading and writing. You donāt just read & write in ELAR, you use these skills in every aspect of your life, so it should be implemented in every classroom. #MasteryChat
A3: Wanna engage Ss & make reading fun? Read w/an accent, dress up in character, or you can always have a PIRATE read to your class! Thanks again, @burgessdave! šā ļø
Iāll post a video of me reading āI Yam a Donkeyā w/an accent.
Ss wanted me to read it EVERYDAY!
#masterychat
A4: Ss need to see their Ts as readers and writers, too. Sharing passion for literacy, writing a blog (my summer goal!), and involving Ss in collaborative discussions via google hangouts, #SeeSaw, & #flipgrid are ways to build the connection. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A4) For academic writing, this year (my first year teaching #newteachers) was an experiment. When I modeled good writing, my Ss did and seemed to feel more confident. When I didn't provide examples, I noticed lack depth. #writingtips#SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
I love books that "hook" Ss! I get so much more buy-in when I choose Read Aloud texts which many kids would never choose themselves, & the next week I see they have checked it out of the library or asked their parents to buy it! #MasteryChat
A4-To build a love of reading and writing ss need to see T actually doing it. When we show that we enjoy/support reading and writing and share with ss it then helps them see that they are skills relevant and important. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A4: We must lead by example! If we want our students to read and write then we must read and write. We need to share our reading and writing journeys with our students. We inspire greatness through our own actions. #MasteryChat
A4: reading is a way to keep r own minds rejuvenated. If its pd it keeps us current or if it's a fun read it takes r mind to a different place. Writing all the same. Both #Spark us to explore the world from different perspectives which is what teaching is all about
#masterychat
A4: It took a long time to branch out and pick up books that weren't necessarily my first choice, but taking that RISK led to beneficial lessons learned and great books discovered. Encourage your students to do so! #masterychat
I love the idea of a bullet journal! I think it will be a summer project to get in the habit. :) And using quotes and random thoughts rather than feeling like I have to Journal with diary entries is appealing! #masterychat
In reply to
@beacherteacher5, @CristinaDajero, @TechNinjaTodd
A4 When we teachers share our stories and ideas, we build a community of readers, writers, and learnersāwhich ultimately benefits our students. #MasteryChat
A4. Itās important for our students to see us reading alongside them. One of my goals is to get into classroom this fall and read with the students and teachers. #MasteryChat
A4: Teachers who are readers & writers and share that passion with their students gain students who become readers and writers. Sometimes, you just need someone to model for you what it looks like to be excited so you can do that to. #masterychat#SparksInTheDark
A4: ss need to see the purposes for reading and writing. To reflect, to persuade, to learn, for pleasure, etc. and they need to see adults in diff areas of their lives so this to make connections of these diff purposes. #masterychat
A4: A great deal about it is modeling. Ss will do what is seen and head. It is also about developing the love for reading a writing. We have to love what we are doing to really engage and connect with it. #MasteryChat
A4~ Ts need to model, model, model that Learning is continuous, takes consistent effort and shows our Ss that there are great benefits to doing so for the betterment of themselves and š #MasteryChat
#masterychat A4 I teach math, but realize the huge importance of writing. I have my kids write short answer responses every Friday. My Ss are SO EXCITED to buy my book coming out this Fall. Could have a packed house at my book signing. ROLE MODEL that what you want the kids to do
A4b Ss will be engaged when they experience a genuine love for reading and writing radiating from their Ts; how can we expect our Ss to read & write on a daily basis if we arenāt doing the same? #MasteryChat
A4 Showing students that you actively engage with books and read for fun is so powerful! It helps students realize that 1) you practice what you preach and 2) that reading has a life beyond school #MasteryChat
I notice this so often, too. We learn from writing beside good examples, beautiful words, and powerful mentors. Generating writing is difficult work, but if students can see examples, their writing abilities grow. #masterychat
A4: The more I read, the more I could show a genuine interest in and love for reading. Practice what you preach! The students sense authenticity! #MasteryChat
A4: We need to model, both writing and reading. If you use quick writes to open your class, write while they write. Share the journey with them, both reading and writing. #masterychat
Ss notice what we care about and whatās important to us through how we teach lessons. I always find that if itās something that I love #reading then my students are naturally more engaged. #masterychat
A4- After I finish a book, I'll call my students to the carpet-they snuggle up with pillows and I tell them all about the story. They've heard about 18th century Paris, WWII bomber planes, hackers, dystopian plotlines & countless more -they see the magic of the story #MasteryChat
This is why I do every single project I ask my kids to do. If they ask me whether I did it, I'm always like, "Yeah, I wouldn't ask you to do something I wouldn't do. Do you want to see mine?" Works every time lol #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A4 This is an area that I work on constantly. Because of my experiences while
learning English, I don't love to read. I have to force myself to read and my Ss get so excited when they see me reading a book. Sometimes they even offer suggestions like the Kite Runner. #masterychat
A4: @skrashen shared insight: "Make reading ordinary."
We work so hard to make reading something special & unique, but it isn't and shouldn't be. You can't teach students this, that it's inexorably part of our life in its many forms. But we can show it. #masterychat
A4:THEY ARE SO INTER-CONECTED!There are many Ts who I hear say I hate teaching reading or writing & it reflects in their Ss performance! I used to feel this way with Math until I took an interest in becoming better at it personally, it made be a better T for my kids! #MasteryChat
A4: How are teachersā reading and writing lives connected to STUDENT ENGAGEMENT?
SimpleāIf you model, theyāll follow.
If youāre PASSIONATE about both reading & writing ā students will be too!
Show kids R & W is fun and you love it and theyāll buy into it too!
#masterychat
Yes! We create safe spaces for exploration. Trying to work on this more with creative writing exemplars, since most of the year was analysis. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A3: I ask them what movies/TV shows they like, what they like to do in their spare time, what they are curious about. Then I pick a couple of diff books from my library for them to look through. If I can recommend something I've read, I tell them why I loved it. #MasteryChat
A4: Examples and Engagement. Let them see our own works & how skills are used. Show them what we are reading and why like the idea I saw from @MrPStrunk this week. Maybe even let them revise some things we have written. Show them why we love it and make them part. #MasteryChat
I was midway through telling them all about the Lonely Hearts Hotel by @lethal_heroine and we were interrupted- it was the last day before March Break and a near-riot ensued..."But whatever happened to..???" "But wait- we can't stop there!!" They were hooked! #MasteryChat
A4: As a practical point, how we write TO our Ss can have a major impact on their engagement. A timely email or a patient response to a question can establish the respect that Ss deserve and should expect from their instructors. #masterychat
Seriously, you will love it! I fill my pages with doodles, quotes, photos, thoughts, memories, ect. Not all of my pages are this pretty though! lol #masterychat
In reply to
@TechieTeachOtt, @CristinaDajero, @TechNinjaTodd
A5: An authentic writing life is one that shares honestly and openly. One that isn't always perfect, spelled correctly, and all correct grammar. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A5: I feel that authenticity exists when students make the choices in their writing lives. We may provide parameters, but students should be able to choose structure & genre. Audience gives purpose, and I ask students to think about the recipient of their writing. #masterychat
A4:THEY ARE SO INTER-CONECTED!There are many Ts who I hear say I hate teaching reading or writing & it reflects in their Ss performance! I used to feel this way with Math until I took an interest in becoming better at it personally, it made be a better T for my kids! #MasteryChat
A5: Writing about things you care about! What matters to you? Are you passionate?
Audience is important because sometimes students will not pour everything into an assignment for an audience of 1. Different readers have different perspectives. #MasteryChat
A5 - I think any writing that expresses your passion organically becomes authentic. This could be anything from an email/text, a blog post or an entire post. Authenticity is the most important thing when dealing w/ any relationships and that's what writing can do. #masterychat
A4: We talked about this in terms of Successes and Failures. I shared a failure in my teaching today and then a success watching their learning. When we shared out they chose to share their failures and what they learned from failing, making it a success in the end. #MasteryChat
A5) In this changing work the audience has changed. We have to meet the audiences students want to write too. Not only that but it makes their writing real and have a purpose #masterychat
A5: An authentic writing life is writing with no prompts. Authoring from the heart, sharing your story, speaking on paper. And I actually believe audience doesn't matter. When you write for you, from the heart, the right people will read it. #masterychat
A5: Authentic writing is when you literally just write. You're just sharing your every thought without worrying about what it looks like or sounds like when it's on paper. It's when you don't filter, edit, or revise yourself; you just write. #MasteryChat
A5 Audience matters so much, if their work is being seen outside your class they want to make sure their work is the best it can be. I've observed this time after time #MasteryChat
It is AWESOME! I love using it for so many different things in the classroom! Speaking skills practice, project presentations, book recommendations, forrmative assessment! I even have used it as a vent session when Ss were feeling fustrated! #masterychat
In reply to
@miss_lsauser, @StephDill92, @Flipgrid
#masterychat A5 IMO an authentic writing life is writing that produces a product ( doesn't have to be published ). The audience does matter if you are going to publish. #AlwaysBelieve
A5 Authentic writing is writing for a life need; which for me are grants, emails, lesson plans, etc. Students need to know who they are talking to and what their needs are; if so writing becomes clearer and more interesting for themselves and their eventual audience. #MasteryChat
A5: In real life, we use words to get what we want and need. We persuade people to follow us on Twitter with one voice, and we apply for jobs with another. Skilled communicators are more likely to get what they ask for. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A5: Determining your audience is usually the first thing you do before writing... just think we are all gearing our writing here towards a certain group of AWESOME EDUCATORS #masterychat
A5: I think it is anything that shares a good art of ourselves; whether journaling, technical, creative, etc. Audience matters because it is what allows that written down part of us to connect with someone else and create relationships; even if we never met. #MasteryChat
A5: First, writing is like getting tattoos; itās for you, no one else. Then, should you choose to share, itās on your terms. Second, I started my writing routine on January 2nd thanks to @RACzyz and I will not stop. #MasteryChat
A5) Authenticwriting to me is when you allow Ss a sense of choice in their writing. This allows them to be passionate and get excited about their piece #MasteryChat
A5: An authentic writing life is one in which you write openly about things you are passionate about! Although many people are concerned with who their audience is, I believe authentic writing is not to be concerned with an audience! #MasteryChat
A5: It's when the writers are encouraged to be "real." The format doesn't matter. It is created by the S. Audience matters because of the comfort level with what the writer is sharing with his/her audience. #masterychat
A5: Any topic that makes the writer want to put !!!!!!!!!! instead of the proper one ! is exactly the kind of topic and writing I both want to see and read!!!! #MasteryChat
A5: Authentic writing shows the reader a piece of the author, like a glimpse into their soul. Audience matters because you need to keep in mind who is reading the writing, does it need to be formal or is informal ok? #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A5: making thinking visible. Being vulnerable to share fears, weaknesses, and brave enough to brag about your https://t.co/UkeONaluSV should be available to anyone who wants to learn from, be inspired by, or relate to your experiences. #masterychat
A5: Authenticity in learning is everything. From transferability to meaningful engagement.
In writing, though, authenticity & audience are beautiful. They're how we show our students that their ideas matter, that people are interested in what they have to say! #masterychat
A5) Authenticity comes w/real situations. For example, an adult at our school was removing our students' work from the school halls. Our Ss wrote to her to ask her to please stop. Additionally, authenticity comes with choice. #MasteryChat
A5: I feel that authenticity exists when students make the choices in their writing lives. We may provide parameters, but students should be able to choose structure & genre. Audience gives purpose, and I ask students to think about the recipient of their writing. #masterychat
A5: As a pedagogical tool, authentic writing so important to introduce. Ss choosing various genres in which to write while choosing a specific audience can make writing come alive way more than the typical academic essay that is usually one-and-done. #masterychat
A5: An authentic writing life is writing from the heart. I write this way in my blog. The audience is anyone that can make a connection or be inspired. When you write from the heart you never know who your words may touch. #MasteryChat
#MasteryChat- A5: Writing about your passions and interests with purpose, intention and an audience. That's why I wish kids didn't have to just write a story. Blog, write emails, directions, recipes, etc... , write whatever you have a purpose for.
A5: Authentic: "representing oneās true nature or beliefs; true to oneself or to the person identified" Always BE YOU in what you write and share! Don't be afraid and don't hold back your passion #masterychat
A5-An authentic writing life is one where you are not judged by the mechanics, but one where you share your thoughts, wants, hopes, and imagination. It may not always look pretty, but it is real. Finding your audience and writing to them. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A5 Audience for our writing is so much less about the them as it is about us! When we put ourselves out there for others to see, and challenge, we are forcing ourselves into a place of vulnerability- & a place of growth! Publishing my writing has taught ME so much! #masterychat
A5- Authentic writing is key for my students. For 6-7 year olds, they need to see that writing has purpose and meaning. There is no excuse for inauthentic, rote writing for these kids. They need to see the power the pen can hold. #MasteryChat
A5) Audience is important because it helps focus the writing, but we need to make sure Ss have to possibility to have their piece exposed to a wider audience. Ss once again get excited because they know more than the T-shirt is reading or hearing it #MasteryChat
A5: We all have a story to share. Our experiences both inside and outside the classroom shape us-sharing these moments, lessons, and memories has the potential to connect with others in our learning communities. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6: Authentic writing requires our Ss to be extremely thoughtful as their writing will be applied to some higher audience transcending the classroom-something read in the"real world" outside of"school world." Arguments,persuasive essays, personal perspectives, etc...#MasteryChat
A6: Allow free-writing & a WIDE variety of text that empowers Ss. There should be at LEAST one book that resonates with every student in your room. #MasteryChat
A5: Authentic writing is writing about things you care about with the assumption that it will be read. Audience is key because the voice of your writing changes based on your audience, much like code switching when talking. #masterychat
A5 Authentic writing is being true to our own style and passions, taking chances and not being afraid to model writing about things that matter to us. #MasteryChat
A6 - haha...bet you can guess what I'm going to say!? @thegridmethod is a great way to provide choice and individualize the learning experience for Ss and their writing. I've seen amazing writing workshops organized using @thegridmethod and it is amazing to watch! #masterychat
A5: Audience is so important bc often Ss won't put their whole heart into writing if they know they audience won't care or understand, or even judge what they write. As an adult, I'm currently struggling with this as I try to write a memoir! #masterychat
A5 Writers write because they have a purpose and an audience. Students write because they have an assignment and a deadline. Letās teach kids how to be writers. #MasteryChat
A6: When are students are given a choice they are empowered and they do things that surprise you. As @teachermantrav always says, "if we let them..." #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6: Allow for creativity and individual personalities to shine through! Ss don't have to read or write about the same things! Be flexible and considerate of the different minds in the classroom! #MasteryChat
It also reaches beyond just writing for the teacher, or yourself...it is meant to reach others with purpose with the hope it will connect with others. #MasteryChat
A6 Ummmm, everywhere?!? Provide choices to students constantly - about
everything. Where do you want to sit? What do you want to read? What do you want to learn? What problem will you solve? Why are you spending your time here? #masterychat
So true and something we all need to keep in mind when we are feeling extra tired, stretched thin, overwhelmed. I have been guilty of replying to students too impatiently- it does significant damage! #masterychat
A4: As a practical point, how we write TO our Ss can have a major impact on their engagement. A timely email or a patient response to a question can establish the respect that Ss deserve and should expect from their instructors. #masterychat
A5) I think audience for authentic writing should be important bc it will lead to greater specific feedback. After writers can narrow their audience once the general views that authenticity. Scary, but very rewarding! #SparksInTheDark#masterychat
Q6: Students are driven by interest and passion, just like adults. Giving students chances to read and write about the thing that are meaningful to them will change classroom culture & engagement. And it nudges students further in their reading/writing lives. #masterychat
A5 When the only writing we have Ss do is to a prompt they donāt realize that there arenāt real life purposes for writing. When we write for a real purpose then we build writers (letters, recommendations, small moments) #masterychat
A6: Be comfortable giving up control. Do we want silence and compliance with 34 kids doing identical things in unison? Or do we want inquiry and excitement, even if it's a little harder to manage the logistics? #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6: Allow the space and time for Ss to engage in real convos with one another about what they're reading or writing about at home and at school #MasteryChat
A6 We do a lot of choice writing so students feel like they can go off in their own directions and be in control of some of the things they write. #MasteryChat
A6 Multiple pathways that honor differences in preference, ability and need. I love to offer both a reading and a video and say pick on to reflect on what you learned! Want to add more chances for student reflection with Flipgrid
#MasteryChat
A5: I think of an authentic writing life as the writing we do outside of whatās required. Blogs, journals, creative writing, articles, poems, etc. Are we writing for a love of expression or to share ideas? ā¤ļø #masterychat
A6) Exposure. Putting books in the hands of Ss, talking to them and giving them options, talking to them and asking for updates because you want to know if they like it and how itās going. Allowing Ss to choose a book with book dates for reading groups #MasteryChat
A6: #MasteryChat I saw a neat idea at my local B&N. Around Valentineās Day they wrapped books and wrote details about the book on the outside, without revealing the title or whole plot. It was a different way to connect to a story you may not choose for yourself otherwise.
A5: Authentic writing is writing from the heart. Being real. Being rawāeven if itās ugly.
#AudienceMatters because you have to connect with others. They want what they are reading to be meaningful to them.
#masterychat
This is an important point, Courtney. Writing is difficult work, and defining an audience proves challenging for students who may be used to responding to teacher-generated prompts & ideas. You're doing phenomenal work. #masterychat
A5) I think audience for authentic writing should be important bc it will lead to greater specific feedback. After writers can narrow their audience once the general views that authenticity. Scary, but very rewarding! #SparksInTheDark#masterychat
A6 Choice is so important. When Ss get to choose they are more engaged, provide much more detail, and are more likely to include personal experiences. This is true is most of what we do in my humble opinion. #masterychat
A6)Choices w/in choices: ex: We are on a research unit about animals. Ss have to research and write a nonfiction book about an animal, but they can choose their animal. #MasteryChat
A5 One that shows your actual life. The highs, lows, absurdities, and ideas that you have can bring out empathy or inspire those around you. The audience is the point, even if it is only yourself #masterychat
A6: Allowing students to use their own creativity to express themselves but also providing those that need a little inspiration if needed!
#MasteryChat
A2: My first memory of writing āļø really was ānotesā I wrote to my parents and grandparents when I had just learned how. I felt so proud to be able to communicate with them like that. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6: Host a "book tasting", book talks, have students create book trailers, and have a classroom library that is jam-packed! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6 - Ask students about how they would like to learn. Be in constant communication with them through the day and try to change your lessons based on what their needs are in the class. Students are the reason why we are in the classroom anyways. #MasteryChat
Our enegy level and enthusiasm for what we do have a direct correlation to how students feel/act. Something to remember when we are having a rough day- our students pick up on it and react to it!
Again, when WE are excited about reading, they can be too! #masterychat
A6: The sooner we abandon the notion that learning should take place only within the four walls of a classroom, the sooner we will empower our Ss to exhibit agency over their learning. #masterychat
A6-Letting ss have choice as much as possible. Free write is one of my ss favorite things to do. Also, they get excited to do book commercials/book talks about books they want to recommend to others. #SparksInTheDark#MasteryChat
A6: I try to provide open-ended journals for my kids to write about and share if they like. Sometimes they even run their own discussion about something a student shares! #masterychat
A6) All of the timeā-student choice leads to agency and students taking ownership of their learning. We should always provide some choice of learning for students #MasteryChat
A6: Finding where students' genre gaps are is insightful. We can guide their thinking by challenging them to read outside their comfort zones. #masterychat
A6: Ts MUST know their students. Itās not enough to just give random things to choose from, the choices have to be meaningful for the Ss otherwise, whatās the point? If Ss donāt have voice & choice, youāll get compliance NOT engagement!#masterychat#SparksInTheDark
A5: Authentic writing is writing about things you care about with the assumption that it will be read. Audience is key because the voice of your writing changes based on your audience, much like code switching when talking. #masterychat
A6) For writing allow Ss multiple topics or formats. Have them be relevant. Open the audience to Ss to allow them to share w/ others. Make it a passion project or focus on something they are interested in already. Help guide Ss in their journey but allow Ss to steer #MasteryChat
A6b: Something as simple as implementing @WODBMath in your class can spark so many conversations, allow for student choice, and engage Ss in meaningful conversations! #MasteryChat#WODB#mathchat
A3: I think student choice is so important. As teachers who have built relationships, we should also work to find them the āright fitā with a book that they can connect to. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A3: We can engage all students with conferring routinely, utilizing the workshop model, and differentiation through small group instruction. #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
#masterychat#SparksInTheDark A5 Writing should evoke a response from an audience. The response helps us to judge the effectiveness of our writing - to get feedback.
A6: Allow students an opportunity to free write and read during the day. Let them read and write about topics that interest them. Giving them ownership of their reading and writing journey. #MasteryChat
Writing and agency are so interconnected -- to write is to master one's thoughts, one's voice. When Ss become vulnerable enough to put their writing out in public (i.e., a classroom), we must treat their writing intentions with respect. #masterychat
A6 Instead of assigning essay after essay, letās have our students read culturally relevant, high-quality literature and then write in the same genre or on similar themes. Then letās help them choose a topic, purpose, and audience that matters to them. #MasteryChat
I love reading a class novel (like The Outsiders) and have students say āI thought books were stupid and boring until we read this oneā warms my heart. The right book is out there; we just have to find it. #masterychat
A5: it's genuine. Pouring your heart and soul into what you wrote and letting the audience feel your emotion. The audience only matters in who it might impact. As a writer, you may never know the audience you reach. #MasteryChat
A6 Always comes down to knowing my kids and fostering a comfortable environment where they are unafraid to share thoughts and interests and know that I will listen to their requests #masterychat
A6: I do #blinddatewithabook every year around Valentines Day. Students select their ādatesā and then have to read the first chapter and talk about what they gathered from the book. It helps students discover books they may not have noticed before. #MasteryChat
A6~ use of instructional strategies that share/support the teaching& learning w/all stakeholders ~ seamlessly blending trad& tech rich lessons across the curriculum ~ project based learning - student interests at forefront #MasteryChat
A6 Celebrating reading with book talks and peer recommendations. Have Ss write up a description for the book so they can hook a new reader! #MasteryChat
A7: T's have to be willing to open their classrooms and let others lead. Students can take our classrooms to new heights, we just have to let them have the opportunity. #MasteryChat
A6: flexible seating! Organizing your classroom library by theme/subject instead of reading level. Giving Ss choices on how to show their mastery of learning #masterychat
I love flexible seating! Choice boards are AWESOME! Even better- @MrsMott4 is doing it all in a student-paced learning environment! You rock, Laurena! #masterychat
Itās not enough to just see what they like and make a fortnite themed activity, give them a chance to see their voice matters, that they can use that learning in some way to change their world #MasteryChat
A2: I was in 4th grade, and I wrote an āI like youā letter to some ugly boy. He showed everyone, but I denied it was me. It was a horrible experience! #MasteryChat#SparksInTheDark
A6: flexible seating! Organizing your classroom library by theme/subject instead of reading level. Giving Ss choices on how to show their mastery of learning #masterychat
A6: We can provide choice in our classroom to leverage student success & agency by giving them #VoiceAndChoice.
For writingārather than telling kids what they HAVE to write aboutāask them what their interests are & what they WANT to write about & LET THEM DO SO!
#masterychat
I really enjoy reading Flying Solo by Ralph Fletcher to my groups. Read it to a group of 6th grade boys a few years back and they completely related, saw peers as charaters along with themselves. It was great. #MasteryChat
