After Class Three

This week we learned about emergent literacy, and did reading responses to sections of Chapter 3 which were shared with the class.  We also had a look at some children's magazines, like Ranger Rick, Your Big Backyard, Westcoast Express and Kid's World.  We got into groups to create basic lesson plans and heard some great ideas.  Well done, everyone!
For next class, please bring the Raczinski & Padak handout and your textbook -- we will be making a list of strategies for teaching reading.

After Class Two

Thanks to everyone for your very serious evaluation of the variety of children's literature while having a good time!  I strongly recommend spending some time in a library and exploring the world of children's lit out there.
Today we discussed Chap. 1-2 "Teaching and Learning Language Arts" and emphasized the role of emotions in engaging student interest.  After looking at the books, we also presented some of our favourites and heard some excellent "on the spot" ideas for using them in lessons.  Well done.
For the blog this week, I'd like you to choose two ideas to write about, one paragraph each, or choose one idea to elaborate on.  You can analyze the readings, extend the discussions, comment on the activity, bring in your personal experiences or relate any ideas to the topics covered in class.  Feel free to comment on other people's postings as well.
For next week, please read Chap. 3 in our text and the handouts from the Raczinski & Padek text, Chap. 4, 5,& 6.  Also, please bring them to class -- we will be using them over the next two weeks as we look at teaching strategies.
Hope you all enjoy the long weekend and the weather holds!

After Class One

Hello!

It was great to meet you today and I think we got off to a great start.  Today we introduced each other and had a look at the course syllabus.  This week I'd like you to try out the blog:  post a brief introduction of yourself and what your interests are in teaching ELA.

See you next week!