Eager Learners

We are a few chapters into this amazing novel.  Which character do you think is more like you–Leo, Kevin, Hillari or Stargirl?  Why?  Use specific examples from the text to support your opinion.

Spring Break is almost here! What will you be reading over the break?

–Mrs. Stephens

Hi class,

 By now most of you have read so many wonderful books.  I am very proud of you for being “Eager Learners” who approach reading in such a positive way.  Which two books would you recommend to other 6th graders? Before you answer this question, read a few book reviews and write down in your reading journal what you notice about book reviews.  Once you have have 5 or more characteristics of book reviews written down, show them to me so we can discuss this in your individual reading conference!  After this conference, you will be ready to leave a comment.  I can’t wait to hear from all of you!

–Mrs. Stephens

Hi class,

What do you want the world to know about you as a reader and a writer?  Be specific.  Use examples from the reading and writing that you have done for 6th grade. 

So now that we are back in the swing of things, what is your reading goal for 3rd quarter?  I would suggest you look at the past reading objectives to help you determine what you need in your daily reading life.

Also, what is the name of the book you are reading?  Who is the author?

Do you know how all the reading skills/strategies we learn in class help you as a reader?  Do you really know why we work in small writing groups daily?   Answer these two questions for me:  How does knowing about a character’s traits help you as a reader?  How does knowing what a simile is and how to use it help you as a writer?  

I can’t wait to hear your responses! 

We have had an eventful quarter!  In Writer’s Workshop, many of you used mentor text to create your own comic strips.  Some of those strips are on display in our room.  In Reader’s Workshop, I have noticed that some of you have stepped outside your comfort zone and are now reading genres you never thought you would read.  Yes!  This means you are challenging yourself.   With these thoughts in mind, I have a few questions for you:

(1) What are you reading?  What has the novel taught you about the “human condition”?  I would like for you to provide specific examples from your life to support this claim.

(2)Remember your writing goal from a few weeks ago?  Well, have you accomplished it or are you making progress? Use your Writer’s Notebook and your earlier comments in this blog to help you answer this.

I can’t wait to hear from all of you!

2nd Quarter is here! During 2nd Quarter, we will be reading a lot more Nonfiction Text. I envision reading newspapers, magazine articles, and cookbooks. Cookbooks?!?  Our Unit of Study in writing is How-To.  We will be reading and writing about the steps involved in doing different things.  Who knows “How to” make a Go Kart?
But before we get to that, what are some things you learned about yourself as a reader during the 1st quarter?  What is a different genre you want to try reading this quarter?  Why?  I look forward to hearing from all of you.

What is the conflict in your story this week? 

At this point, most students should have an independent reading book.  Students read silently for 30 minutes a day.  I love this time of peace and quiet.  Independent reading allows for me, the teacher, to get insight into how my students make meaning.  It also allows time for students to practice what they have seen me do during demonstrations.