3-04-03

Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2003 19:34:08 -0600
From: Judy Gasser <jggasser@swbell.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Debbie Miller

Ginger and we appreciate everything you do for this listserv - We are
reading and working even though
we don't always reply. Thanks for the info. JGasser
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: <jean247@cox.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Debbie Miller
Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2003 20:46:26 -0500

I would like to echo Judy's gratitude to Ginger and all of you out there who
send along inspiring stories, tried and true lesson ideas, worthwhile
professional titles, and a sneak peek into your classroom through the use of
this list serve. I feel energized!
Thank you,
Jean
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Ginger/Rob" <elephant@foxvalley.net>
Subject: [mosaic]
Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2003 20:34:15 -0600

Jean and all- Speaking of worthwhile professional titles-

I am currently reading a fabulous book you may be interested in. It is
called Learning Along the Way by Diane Sweeny. (published by Stenhouse) She
is part of the PEBC group in Denver. Her book is about "how a school can
move away from a one-size-fits all professional development model to create
an authentic learning environment that meets the needs of individual
teachers." She writes about "using learner centered professional
development to achieve outstanding gains in teacher knowledge and
effectiveness."

The back covers states: "In Learning Along the Way you will see concrete
examples of how your school can move away from a one-size-fits-all
professional development model to create an authentic learning environment
that meets the needs of individual teachers. The book features chapters
focusing on:
-implementing an instructional coaching model;
-establishing study groups among teachers;
-using observation as a means to model effective instruction;
-going deeper with discussion through the use of Critical Friends protocols;
-examining various ways adults process new information;
-encouraging teachers to take leadership roles;
-focusing the principal's leadership around the professional development
model.
Replete with real-life anecdotes and practical steps offered at the end of
each chapter, this book will be useful to any teacher or administrator
interested in rethinking the way they look at professional development."

THIS is what I would like to emulate if I were to move into a literacy staff
development position.

Ginger
moderator
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: MEHitzel@aol.com
Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2003 23:40:25 EST
Subject: [mosaic] (mosaic) book study reflection questions

Hi everyone. A day or two back someone asked about reflection questions for
a MOT book study group. I am moderating a MOT study group at my school. We
began the beginning of February and are meeting once a week. It is so
exciting to get together with teachers I don't ordinarily have the
opportunity to and to talk and learn with them. I am seeing so much
enthusiasm for the ideas in MOT. Many of the teachers are already taking
steps to implement or reimplement them in their classrooms. I've copied and
pasted the reflection questions I made up for our group. We're just working
on Ch.6 so that's as far as I've gotten. I've never moderated a book study
before so I'm not sure if they're really helpful or not but the other
teachers in my group tell me to keep writing them. Hope they might be
helpful to someone else.

Martha/4/5/AZ

Mosaic of Thought Book Study Group

Reflection/Focus Questions for Prologue, Ch. 1 & 2

1. Many of us learned to read with Dick and Jane and SRA cards. What was
your personal response to "First Reader"?

2. Ellin Oliver talks about the transformation that has taken place in her
own reading. "I have moved from a passive to an active stance. I am
acutely
aware of my own reading process, the questions and challenges I have for the
authors I read, the awareness I have of moments of confusion and
disorientation in the text, and the tools I use to confront that confusion."
(Pg. 5) How aware are you of the processes you use in your own reading?
Where would you place yourself, as a reader, on a continuum between being a
passive reader and an active reader? How important do you think it is for a
teacher of reading to be an active reader?

3. Susan Zimmerman asked the group of educators what it would take to create
a group of public schools that would be places "where the children and
adults
were deeply engaged and passionate about their own learning? How would you
answer this question? Have we created this type of environment at our
school? In our own classrooms? What things are we doing really well? What
things could we maybe do better?

4. What touched you as you read this section? Surprised you? Intrigued
you?

5. What questions do you have? What do you wonder about?

Reflection/Focus Questions for Ch. 3/Gradual Release of Responsibility
Handout

1. What were you thinking as you read "Salvador, Late or Early? What were
your thoughts after you finished reading?

2. "My concern, "I told them, "is that many children are not so engaged as
they read. They don'' know when they're comprehending. They don't know
when
they're not. They don't know whether it's critical for them to comprehend a
given piece. And if they don't comprehend, they don't know what to do about
it." What were your thought/feelings as you read this quote? How prevalent
is this as a problem with the students you work with each day?

3. The two classroom vignettes in this chapter demonstrate how two teachers
went about teaching their students to be metacognitive. What are some ways
you've helped your own students to be more aware of their
thinking/comprehension as they read? What are some ways we as teachers can
"see" into our students thought processes as they read?

4. Why is it important for us as teachers to understand and be aware of how
we comprehend reading before we are able to teach our students to do so?

5. What is your understanding of the Gradual Release of Responsibility
Model?
How does this model fit into your daily plans with your students?

Reflection/Focus Questions for Chapter 4

1. What was the single one, or two, most interesting or valuable insights
for
you as you read this chapter?

2. This is the first chapter that really demonstrates how teachers who
follow
this model of instruction explicitly teach one strategy, in depth, at a
time.
What are your reactions to/thoughts about this method of comprehension
instruction? What do you think are the benefits or drawbacks to this type
of
instruction?

3. How can we mesh this type of instruction with the use of our basal
readers?

4. Debbie Miller, the teacher whose classroom is highlighted in this
chapter,
documents her student's progress through the strategy study with classroom
charts. What kind of chart/visual aid could you envision using in your
classroom, with your students?

5. If you have the time, try to bring or write down the names of a book or
two that you think would be good for "think alouds" in making text-to-self,
text-to-text, or text-to-world connections.

Reflection/Focus for Chapter 5

To me, determining importance, especially in expository text, is one of
the most difficult strategies to model/teach. I thought maybe we could each
bring a sample of grade appropriate expository text with us to our next
meeting and we could discuss as a group the ideas we identify as important
in
different pieces and what our thinking behind those decisions was.

Reflection/Focus Questions for Chapter 6

1. "The research shows that children who struggle as readers tend not to ask
questions at any time as they read-before, during, or after."

"They're not really reading, not really getting it, not really connecting
with the text enough to interact with it."

Both of these quotes reinforce the necessity of teacher modeling and the
active teaching of metacognition. What are some ways we can help our
students slow down and become involved enough in a text that they are aware
of the questions or "I wonders" that they have?

2. Typically, I think, teachers (as well as basal publishers) have tried to
force student interaction with a text by providing the questions for them.
These questions are based on what the teacher/publisher have deemed as
important in the text. As we've discussed, a student can often answer these
questions and still not have understood the text at much more than a surface
level.

How comfortable are you in handing over the responsibility to your students
to generate the questions that are important to them and their understanding
of a text? It is sometimes hard for me to step back and realize that my
students don't have to have the same or as complete an understanding of a
story as myself. Do any of you struggle with this?

3. Are some questions better than others? Other resources I've read talk
about thick (those that help the reader understand the story better) and
thin
(usually short, factual answers that don't necessarily increase
comprehension) questions. How can we help our students evaluate the
helpfulness of the questions they're asking?

4. How can we help our students take the step from generating questions to
using those questions to increase their understanding of the text? Once
we've got our students generating questions, what is the next step? How can
we evaluate individual student's progress with this strategy?

5. The example chart on page 113 in the text seems fairly complicated to me,
especially for primary students. What kind of chart or visual aide could
you
envision using in your classroom to document progress during this strategy
study?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Kathleen Hurd" <hurd@foxvalley.net>
Subject: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

Reply-To: mosaic@u46teachers.org
I just had the good fortune to hear Gay Su Pinell speak today in Gurnee, IL.
It confirmed for me that what we have been doing in our district with the
assessment to instruction fits so well with the the F & P Reading & Writing
Literacy Block. I took 14 pages of notes, and got to see a great video of
several lessons on Guided Reading Taught by other YOUNG teachers, and Gay Su
as well, who is quite young at heart.

My head was reeling with excitement over all the good things that I think
are starting to fall into place. Schools over the country are hurting for
funds, but there is virtually no reason NOT to teach this way. When
children are engaged in authentic learning there will be fewer discipline
problems. Gay Su confirmed it today.

Tomorrow is Debbie Miller! Wow, no wonder I can't sleep!!!!

Kathy
Elgin U-46
Reading Support, for now
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: Readinglady1@aol.com
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 07:02:29 EST
Subject: [mosaic] Learning Along the Way

Ginger,

I just posted this on my mailring as well, guess we are on the same
wavelength these days. I am in the middle of Learning Along the Way too.
It's a great read. I like the way she used the Gradual Release model we
have
become so familiar with tied to Staff Development. The book is now in the
Reading Lady bookstore for anyone that is interested in joining us!

Laura
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: Readinglady1@aol.com
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 07:08:47 EST
Subject: [mosaic] Debbie Miller

I too had visitors at my school today observing the work I have done with
teachers on using these strategies. It was very gratifying to see the
growth
we have had as a staff. I do not have everyone on board yet but slowly it
is
spreading. I had 8 teachers from two different at risk schools in the
district. Teachers who keep saying it can't be done with "children like
ours." Well, I work with "children like ours" and it CAN and IS being done.
They were blown away by the kindergarten students as well as the first
graders. They have been using their "schema" to make "mental images" and
used the language. These babies in one day showed the power of using these
strategies. IT WORKS and WORKS especially well with at risk students, who
as
I've said earlier need this instruction more than anyone. They need
concrete
ways to understand this complex process of reading comprehension.

The teachers left so excited about getting back to their buildings. They
are
returning with their administrators so that they can get support from them
in
their new journey.

Laura
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 06:24:33 -0800
From: Lori Jackson <ljackson@gwtc.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

I am glad your experience was positive. I went, at my district's expense,
to see Fountas and
Pinnell (a Heinemann thing) and was sorely disappointed. Felt like one big
infomercial.

Lori
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: Creecher12@aol.com
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 07:43:19 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

In a message dated 2/28/03 7:28:57 AM Eastern Standard Time,
ljackson@gwtc.net writes:

> Felt like one big infomercial.

Lori,
Remember Pinnell at the Whole Language conference? She seemed similar there
as well. That was third time I had seen her, and all three times I was
disappointed.

Seeing Stephanie Harvey and Debbie Miller is such a different experience.
Their passion is so genuine.

Nancy
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 07:04:41 -0800
From: Lori Jackson <ljackson@gwtc.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

I was so offened by the presentation in Sioux Falls, that I did not even
go see her at WLU. I was rather hoping that it was the influence of the
publisher driving the event. It is disappointing to think that it was
not.

Lori
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Lois Driggers" <loiso@dbtech.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 17:02:49 -0600

I have just a little insight on this. My friend who is a nationally
recognized literacy author said Gay Su Pinnell is painfully shy. She
doesn't present well because of her shyness, where on the other hand
Fontas is the bubbly type.
I saw her in Mobile, and too, was disappointed and that's when she told
me that. Oh, well, that could be it.

Lois
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 21:24:41 -0800
From: Lori Jackson <ljackson@gwtc.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

I would like to think so, as I admire their body of work. I particuarily
like their book on
interactive writing and Word Matters. When I saw the two of them, I could
describe either as bubbly
but seemed very scripted and time driven. That's why I wanted to attribute
some of it to the
influence of the publishers and what was essentially a 'book tour'.

Lori
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Diana Triplett" <tripled3@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week
Date: Fri, 28 Feb 2003 23:29:43 -0500

I saw Gay Su Pinell prsent at the World Congress on Reading in Aukland, New
Zealand three years ago. She was part of a panel that included Marie Clay
and a man from Australia (I've forgotten his name). Pinell had a very
organized presentation on Reading Recovery in the U.S. with overheads and
statistics. It was well-done, but not very personal. Marie Clay and the
Australian gentleman had presentations that were not as slick, but were very
personal and focused on the students. Members of the audience commented on
how Americans get too hung up on facts and statistics and often lose sight
of the students as individuals.

Diana/1st/FL
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Sat, 1 Mar 2003 07:56:53 -0500 (EST)
From: andrea auclair <anjordy@earthlink.net>
Subject: [mosaic] providing district-wide staff development

Wow, what a great use of your knowledge. I work as a RR teacher in a school
where the only strategy the teachers seem to know how to use is still "sound
it out," and since an expert is someone from 25 miles down the road, no one
wants to hear anything from the reading teachers in the county. :0)Andrea
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: JLabar1026@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 09:05:45 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

In a message dated 2/28/03 11:33:41 PM Eastern Standard Time,
tripled3@hotmail.com writes:

> Members of the audience commented on
> how Americans get too hung up on facts and statistics and often lose sight
> of the students as individuals.
>
> Diana/1st/FL
>
>

Interesting observation.

You had a reading teacher's dream- M. Clay, G-P, and New Zealand!!!!

BG- Unfortunately, us folks in the USA are not known for being the warm &
fuzzy types. . . that has been my experience after quite a number of trips
outside the country.

BG
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: JLabar1026@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 09:24:02 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

That's the great thing about presentations-

A presentation is such a visual, oral expressive, dramatic, & entertaining
kind of thing.
Presentations cut right across class and educated lines-some of the best and
most dramatic presentations I have seen were done by high school drop outs .
. . some of these men were doing hard time in the big house.

I look to Sunday morning TV and radio to get help with my own presentation
style-the preachers and evangelists have many a lesson to offer in how to
get
the word out . . . granted they have their failings, like all of us.

My oral heroes include- (not just preachers) TD Jakes, MLK, Hilary
Clinton,
Barbara Jordan, Molly Yard (NOW fame), JFK, Governor Romney,and C. Rice (G.
Bush fame). - Rumsfeld is pretty effective, too. It is always a pleasure to
watch an effective speaker. My last presentation went so well (almost one
year ago) that I have not had the courage to go back.

I think the best reading presenters I have encountered include-Catherine
Snow, R. Lyon, and I believe Lucy Calkins on tape. ( Oh yeah-Nancy Mather U.
of Arizona and WJR fame is pretty good, too). Whoops Almost forgot P.
Cunningham-she is up there with the very best!
Oh-can't forget J. Kozol (SP).

BG
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: JLabar1026@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 09:29:25 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

In a message dated 2/28/03 1:56:41 AM Eastern Standard Time,
hurd@foxvalley.net writes:

> Tomorrow is Debbie Miller! Wow, no wonder I can't sleep!!!!

I love the field of Reading! WE get excited about things that only we can
understand.

BG
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Sun, 02 Mar 2003 08:48:08 -0800
From: Lori Jackson <ljackson@gwtc.net>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

Adding to the list, if you ever, ever have a chance to see Dorothy
Watson (of Whole Language fame) speak, do so. She is knowledgable,
effective and brings laughter along. The Goodmans have also wowed me
each and every time and Lester Laminack is wonderful as well. Isoke Nia
is amazing and knows more about using genre in writing than anyone.

Lori
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: Twinkie139@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 09:48:07 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

hello!
I never see any mention of Connie Prevatte.....? A lot of teachers,
including myself, have seen her presentations (guided reading, etc) and we
thought she was very dynamic......

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: Creecher12@aol.com
Date: Sun, 2 Mar 2003 10:47:04 EST
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week

In a message dated 3/2/03 9:38:49 AM Eastern Standard Time,
JLabar1026@aol.com writes:

> I think the best reading presenters I have encountered include-Catherine
> Snow, R. Lyon, and I believe Lucy Calkins on tape. ( Oh yeah-Nancy Mather
> U. of Arizona and WJR fame is pretty good, too). Whoops Almost forgot P.
> Cunningham-she is up there with the very best!
> Oh-can't forget J. Kozol (SP).
>

I loved this list!
Reid Lyon is definitely a good presenter. He is like a preacher.
So is Jonathan Kozol.
I would add Stephanie Harvey, Ellen Thompson, Yetta Goodman, Aflie Kohn,
Lilian Katz, and Shelley Harwayne.
I sure wish I could capture some of their presenting magic.
Sometimes it is hard to focus on the message and not the messenger.

Nancy
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Diana Triplett" <tripled3@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week
Date: Sun, 02 Mar 2003 17:41:38 -0500

>From: JLabar1026@aol.com
>You had a reading teacher's dream- M. Clay, G-P, and New Zealand!!!!
>
>BG-

Aah! That was only a small part of it. Add in Ken and Yetta Goodman,
Brian Cambourne, Jan Turnbill, Joy Cowley, Margaret Mahy, Jill Eggleton, and
many more. It was a wonderful experience!

Diana
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "" <denice@flinthills.com>
Subject: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 08:09:54 -0600

I don't even know if I'm going about posting this right. I have been
enjoying reading all the ideas shared on this list. I have a question I
thought all of you might be able to help me with. We have been reading
Strategies That Work in our building and implementing the strategies into
our reading program. Last year we did a book study on Mosaic of Thought. I
have become a much better teacher due to these books. I am involved with a
Literacy Academy in our district. I have been asked to view the Strategies
That Work video tapes and help teach next week. I was wondering if anyone
could share ideas how this might look or suggestions of what I might do. An
hour time block has been scheduled. I just picked up the tapes and will be
viewing them tonight

Any help would be greatly appreciated=2E

Denice
2nd grade
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 08:32:19 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

Denise,

There are questions for discussion for each tape. I truly enjoyed
viewing them. I, too, am teaching a STrategies that Work class in our
district. We just looked at each video. I stopped at several points,
each tape has at least three sections. My teachers enjoyed seeing the
strategies in action, though they say "it can't be done." Or "How does
she do that?" I saw Debbie Miller at the SCIRA conference last
Wednesday and she says that is the number 1 question teachers ask her.
She encouraged us to "raise our expectations" and those students most
at risk are the ones that need the strategies the most.
To those who entertained Debbie in your schools, I AM TOTALLY JEALOUS.
What a wonderful, caring teacher. What she as wonderful in your schools
as she is on tape and at the conference?
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: palapins@mail.volusia.k12.fl.us
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 09:37:52 -0500

You might want to look at the Study Guide for Strategies that is on the
Stenhouse website. I used it when facilitating a study group and it was
helpful. The teachers always like to see kid samples also. Patti

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 09:10:13 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

The questions were in with the set of tapes that I received. However, I
didn't order the tapes; they were in my office when I first started
this job. The study guide is different from the study guide that
Stenhouse publishes on line. You might want to call Stenhouse if you
didn't get them with the tapes. Mine is titled "Strategy Instruction
in Action Study Guide.
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: ekingsbu@somsd.k12.nj.us
Subject: Re: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 10:47:06 -0500

I have to respond to the statements regarding Americans getting hung up on
facts
and statistics and Americans not being warm and fuzzy. I find both
statements
very sterotypical, erroneous and offensive. Government may be hung up on
statistics, but is has been my experience as a teacher and parent that most
teachers are definitely focused on the individual. Certainly that has shown
up in
these discussions on-line. In fact, many teachers have verbalized their
frustrations over too much required testing of their students andtrying to
find
ways to continually differentiate their instruction.
Furthermore, almost all of the primary-grade teachers I know are warm and
fuzzy in
addition to being some of the most gifted professionals I have ever met.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 10:30:41 -0600
From: "Dr. Patricia Watson" <pwatson@sfasu.edu>
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Strategies That Work Questions

Hi,

One of the topics I am required to cover in my classes is copyright for
teachers. Just a warning...that booklet is copyrighted just as the
videos are. Making copies of it is strictly illegal. I realize we all
share things like this all the time...but advertising that you're doing
it on a public listserv is probably not a good move....You could write
Stenhouse and request permission to copy it.

My thoughts anyway...
pat
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 11:30:09 -0700
From: "J. Brewster" <jbrewste@gppsd.ab.ca>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]

Hi,
I saw Gay Sue Pinnell a few years ago at a conference and thoroughly
enjoyed her presentation and enthusiasm.
Judy
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 13:14:57 -0600
Subject: [mosaic] Debbie Millers Visit
From: stringham_s/sh@dns.u46.k12.il.us

Wow! What can I say! What an honor to have Debbie Miller in my
classroom teaching my kids. Then, following that up with a day in a
workshop that she is leading. What a week! I'm still on cloud nine! I
am so proud of my students...they did what I knew they could do!

Before I recap the day with Debbie, please let me tell you a little
about our school and my classroom:

I teach in a culturally diverse school and my classroom is a reflection
of that diversity. We are an at risk school because of poverty levels.
we have HIGH mobility. Last year, out of the 6th grade class, only 4
started in our school as kindergartners. These are the kids some say
"can't do it!" These are the kids that are "too low"...they don't have
the background. These are the struggling readers and struggling
students people say can't do it, but, they are the ones that need it the
most! And they CAN DO IT!!!

Debbie began the day meeting with about 20 or so primary teachers from
around the district. She answered our questions and introduced the day.

We went into my classroom around 9:00. The next 90 minutes were
electrifying. She is so warm, so caring, so affirming, that my kids
immediately responded to her...she had all their ears!

She began by "reading" (they were singing) a book together with the
class: The Lady with the Alligator Purse. Then she asked, "What do you
know about what good readers do?" She writes their answers down in a
little notebook she keeps with her at all times. I wish I had been
writing, but the answers included:

look at the picture...chunk it...reread...think about the
story...schema...mental images...inferring...questioning...and the best
answer of all: Metacognition!

That came from a LITTLE boy who has the LITTLEST boy voice...not only
did he say metacognition..he defined it! I still have goose-bumps!

She asked them about questioning. They were able to tell her that good
readers ask questions before, during and after. She read them the book
The Magic Fish and listed their questions in her book.

I'm leaving out so much, because the best was listening to Debbie's
responses: so warm, so affirming...my lowest kids were the ones
speaking up the most because of her affirming manner! What a lesson for
me as a teacher! One little boy who ALWAYS immediately puts his hand up
to answer a question, and then NEVER has an answer, (we all have
them!)..she gave him plenty of wait time, then in her wonderful warm
voice said: "I can see ___, that you are really thinking and that you
need time to think...so I'm going to let you keep thinking and when you
are ready...you let me know." I'm sure she said it better than that,
but I know the next time he raised his hand, he had something to say!

I was so mesmerized, I lost track of time as to when the mini lesson
ended and she sent them off to read. but while they were reading,
either by themselves or with a partner (based on how I set my room up),
she conferred with all of them, recording their thoughts, asking some to
share. The smiles of my kids was electrifying. My lowest student, a
level 5, was reading The Magic Fish...that was HIS book! A reminder of
what sticking strictly to levels will do to a teacher and a student!
One of my students who I had mentioned in the meeting prior to going
into my room as having difficulties (just wanting to sound out words,
not reading for meaning) was reading the same book, with FLUENCY, and
asking questions! How does she do it? In listening to Debbie as she
conferred with this student, it was through modeling and affirming.

About 10, 10:15..lost track of time, she brought them together on the
carpet and they sat in a circle to share. My kids are used to sharing
at this time, but I don't have them sit in a circle. (they will from
now on!) She modeled social conventions:___, do you want to share?
Then say, "yes, thank you, Mrs. Miller." And they did!

(As a side note, we did this in our share time today...it carried
over..."yes, thank you, Mrs. Stringham"

They shared what they learned about themselves as readers. She made
sure that those that had something that she had asked them to share,
did. She was affirming to all of them. One of my students who doesn't
like to speak in front of others, shared a mental image that she had
recorded in her Thinking Journal. The smile on that students face!
WOW!

We left the class and went back outside the room to share as teachers.
I think everyone was "blown away" by the affirming manner she has with
kids. This is not FAKE. THIS IS REAL. And it shows through with the
kids and their responses to her.

I know we all try to be affirming to our kids, but, what a great
reminder especially this time of year, how powerful the positive is for
our students.

I'm sure I'm not painting a picture that reflects how wonderful seeing
Debbie in action was. But, if you take anything away from this: take a
Mosaic of Thought class...a Strategies That Work class...buy and read
the books, MOT, STW, Reading With Meaning...and then do it! You will
see students soar as you never have before. You will see them soar in
writing and in math..it carries through! And if anyone tells you that
these disadvantaged kids, or kids that are struggling, can't do it, tell
them you KNOW THEY CAN! These are the kids that need it the most.
Model, Model, Model, and give them plenty of opportunities to practice,
and they CAN and WILL do it! And for those who believe that they don't
need to do it, their test scores are high enough, I wonder, why aren't
they higher?

Sandi
1st grade
Elgin
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Patricia K. Evans" <patreads@pacbell.net>
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 11:26:12 -0800

Speaking of amazing presenters, don't forget our own Elin Keene. I had
the good fortune to attend a series of workshops she gave for literacy
liaisons in our California school district, and brought some "sample"
kids over from my class for her to use in a demo lesson. Her
presentation not only taught us all a lot about the think-aloud
strategy, it made a major difference in the way one of the kids thought
about himself. Magic in action! The main lesson I took away from that
day was that we tend to rush our kids' thinking too much; some children
need time to work through what they think before they answer us, but we
often forget to give them the time to do that.

I've also heard wonderful presentations from Regie Routman and Katie
Wood Ray (on writing). Oh-and Mem Fox does a wonderful presentation, as
well.

Pat Evans (patreads@pacbell.net)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 13:33:19 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Debbie Millers Visit
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

Sandi,
Thank you so much for sharing this. What a great opportunity!
Carol
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Diana Triplett" <tripled3@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 16:51:00 -0500

Oh my! I didn't mean to be offensive to anyone. I was simply reporting the
impression some other folks have of Americans. Stereotypes and impressions,
false or otherwise are very much a part of life.

Diana
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 16:31:06 -0600
From: "Dr. Patricia Watson" <pwatson@sfasu.edu>
Subject: [mosaic] Strategy Instruction in Action Guide

Hi,

After I chided everyone about copyright this morning I discovered that
Stenhouse has made the guide to the videos available for free on their
website. No need to write for permission. Just go here to download it.

http://www.stenhouse.com/pdfs/0335guid.pdf

I've used these videos with several groups of teachers now, and I think
my only advice is not to plan too much for too short a time. I find that
teachers love to stop the tape and discuss every few minutes. They are
so rich with wonderful kid talk and teacher talk and print rich
classrooms. They really should be savored slowly I think.

I've never shown ALL of them to any one group. I always pick and choose
"snippets" that go with what we've been discussing. But you could start
at Tape 1 and work your way through a bit at a time.

Hope you have fun with them...

pat
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "btillman" <btillman@farmerstel.com>
Subject: [mosaic] Reading Adoption materials
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 20:00:50 -0500

Hi all,
Sorry for the cross posting, but I can't remember which mailring I
promised this on! In January I went to a 4 day institute to learn how to
evaluate reading materials. Laura has kindly posted the rubric on her
website. You can click on the link below and go to the reading program
evaluation link to download it either in Word or Adobe format. This is
copyrighted by Dr. Sharon Walpole, my trainer, but she has given permission
for it to be posted for use. She will be publishing it at a
later date. Be warned: IT is VERY thorough!
Hope it's helpful,
Cece/LC/GA

http://www.readinglady.com/Downloads/Assessment/assessment.html
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Kendra" <kendra9@mindspring.com>
Subject: [mosaic] good presenters
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 18:36:33 -0800

Ditto on Stephanie Harvey and Reid Lyon and Lucy Calkins. They just slice
through any lingering doubts you may have, as you walk into their
presentation, that this is a most rewarding and important profession.
I add Donald Graves and Barry Lane (both writing experts) and Michael
Pressley (not afraid to speak truths but tell funny stories too).
p.s. to BG - did not know you were a closet Billy Graham fan.
-Kendra.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

From: "" <denice@flinthills.com>
Subject: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 08:09:54 -0600

I don't even know if I'm going about posting this right=3D2E I have =
been
enjoying reading all the ideas shared on this list=3D2E I have a =
question
I thought all of you might be able to help me with=3D2E We have been
reading Strategies That Work in our building and implementing the
strategies into our reading program=3D2E Last year we did a book study =
on
Mosaic of Thought=3D2E I have become a much better teacher due to these
books=3D2E I am involved with a Literacy Academy in our district=3D2E =
I
have been asked to view the Strategies That Work video tapes and help
teach next week=3D2E I was wondering if anyone could share ideas how =
this
might look or suggestions of what I might do=3D2E An hour time block =
has
been scheduled=3D2E I just picked up the tapes and will be viewing them
tonight=3D
=3D2E

Any help would be greatly appreciated=3D2E

Denice
2nd grade
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 08:32:19 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

Denise,
There are questions for discussion for each tape. I truly enjoyed=20
viewing them. I, too, am teaching a STrategies that Work class in our=20
district. We just looked at each video. I stopped at several points,=20
each tape has at least three sections. My teachers enjoyed seeing the=20
strategies in action, though they say "it can't be done." Or "How does=20
she do that?" I saw Debbie Miller at the SCIRA conference last=20
Wednesday and she says that is the number 1 question teachers ask her.=20
She encouraged us to "raise our expectations" and those students most=20
at risk are the ones that need the strategies the most.
To those who entertained Debbie in your schools, I AM TOTALLY JEALOUS.=20
What a wonderful, caring teacher. What she as wonderful in your schools=20
as she is on tape and at the conference?
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: palapins@mail.volusia.k12.fl.us
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 09:37:52 -0500=20

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 09:10:13 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

The questions were in with the set of tapes that I received. However, I=20
didn't order the tapes; they were in my office when I first started=20
this job. The study guide is different from the study guide that=20
Stenhouse publishes on line. You might want to call Stenhouse if you=20
didn't get them with the tapes. Mine is titled "Strategy Instruction=20
in Action Study Guide.
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 10:30:41 -0600
From: "Dr. Patricia Watson" <pwatson@sfasu.edu>
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Strategies That Work Questions

Hi,

My thoughts anyway...
pat
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 10:48:29 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Strategies That Work
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

I agree with Dr. Watson; I can't make copies of copyrighted material. I=20
suggest you call Stenhouse.
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 11:30:09 -0700
From: "J. Brewster" <jbrewste@gppsd.ab.ca>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]

I saw Gay Sue Pinnell a few years ago at a conference and thoroughly
enjoyed her presentation and enthusiasm.=20
Judy
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 13:14:57 -0600
Subject: [mosaic] Debbie Millers Visit
From: stringham_s/sh@dns.u46.k12.il.us

Before I recap the day with Debbie, please let me tell you a little
about our school and my classroom:

I teach in a culturally diverse school and my classroom is a reflection
of that diversity. We are an at risk school because of poverty levels.=20
we have HIGH mobility. Last year, out of the 6th grade class, only 4
started in our school as kindergartners. These are the kids some say
"can't do it!" These are the kids that are "too low"...they don't have
the background. These are the struggling readers and struggling
students people say can't do it, but, they are the ones that need it the
most! And they CAN DO IT!!!

Debbie began the day meeting with about 20 or so primary teachers from
around the district. She answered our questions and introduced the day.

We went into my classroom around 9:00. The next 90 minutes were
electrifying. She is so warm, so caring, so affirming, that my kids
immediately responded to her...she had all their ears!

look at the picture...chunk it...reread...think about the
story...schema...mental images...inferring...questioning...and the best
answer of all: Metacognition!

That came from a LITTLE boy who has the LITTLEST boy voice...not only
did he say metacognition..he defined it! I still have goose-bumps!

She asked them about questioning. They were able to tell her that good
readers ask questions before, during and after. She read them the book
The Magic Fish and listed their questions in her book.

I was so mesmerized, I lost track of time as to when the mini lesson
ended and she sent them off to read. but while they were reading,
either by themselves or with a partner (based on how I set my room up),
she conferred with all of them, recording their thoughts, asking some to
share. The smiles of my kids was electrifying. My lowest student, a
level 5, was reading The Magic Fish...that was HIS book! A reminder of
what sticking strictly to levels will do to a teacher and a student!=20
One of my students who I had mentioned in the meeting prior to going
into my room as having difficulties (just wanting to sound out words,
not reading for meaning) was reading the same book, with FLUENCY, and
asking questions! How does she do it? In listening to Debbie as she
conferred with this student, it was through modeling and affirming.

About 10, 10:15..lost track of time, she brought them together on the
carpet and they sat in a circle to share. My kids are used to sharing
at this time, but I don't have them sit in a circle. (they will from
now on!) She modeled social conventions:___, do you want to share?=20
Then say, "yes, thank you, Mrs. Miller." And they did!

(As a side note, we did this in our share time today...it carried
over..."yes, thank you, Mrs. Stringham" =20

We left the class and went back outside the room to share as teachers.=20
I think everyone was "blown away" by the affirming manner she has with
kids. This is not FAKE. THIS IS REAL. And it shows through with the
kids and their responses to her. =20

I know we all try to be affirming to our kids, but, what a great
reminder especially this time of year, how powerful the positive is for
our students.

I'm sure I'm not painting a picture that reflects how wonderful seeing
Debbie in action was. But, if you take anything away from this: take a
Mosaic of Thought class...a Strategies That Work class...buy and read
the books, MOT, STW, Reading With Meaning...and then do it! You will
see students soar as you never have before. You will see them soar in
writing and in math..it carries through! And if anyone tells you that
these disadvantaged kids, or kids that are struggling, can't do it, tell
them you KNOW THEY CAN! These are the kids that need it the most.=20
Model, Model, Model, and give them plenty of opportunities to practice,
and they CAN and WILL do it! And for those who believe that they don't
need to do it, their test scores are high enough, I wonder, why aren't
they higher?

Sandi
1st grade
Elgin
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Patricia K. Evans" <patreads@pacbell.net>
Subject: RE: [mosaic] Gay Su Pinell & Debbie Miller in ONE Week
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 11:26:12 -0800

Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 13:33:19 -0600
Subject: Re: [mosaic] Debbie Millers Visit
From: carol carlson <carlsonca@dist102.k12.il.us>

Sandi,
Thank you so much for sharing this. What a great opportunity!
Carol
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "Diana Triplett" <tripled3@hotmail.com>
Subject: Re: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 16:51:00 -0500

Oh my! I didn't mean to be offensive to anyone. I was simply reporting
the=20
impression some other folks have of Americans. Stereotypes and
impressions,=20
false or otherwise are very much a part of life.

Diana
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 16:31:06 -0600
From: "Dr. Patricia Watson" <pwatson@sfasu.edu>
Subject: [mosaic] Strategy Instruction in Action Guide

Hi,

http://www.stenhouse.com/pdfs/0335guid.pdf

I've never shown ALL of them to any one group. I always pick and choose
"snippets" that go with what we've been discussing. But you could start
at Tape 1 and work your way through a bit at a time.

Hope you have fun with them...

pat
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

From: "btillman" <btillman@farmerstel.com>
Subject: [mosaic] Reading Adoption materials
Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2003 20:00:50 -0500

Hi all,
Sorry for the cross posting, but I can't remember which mailring I =3D
promised this on! In January I went to a 4 day institute to learn how to
=3D
evaluate reading materials. Laura has kindly posted the rubric on her =
=3D
website. You can click on the link below and go to the reading program =
=3D
evaluation link to download it either in Word or Adobe format. This is =
=3D
copyrighted by Dr. Sharon Walpole, my trainer, but she has given =3D
permission for it to be posted for use. She will be publishing it at a =
=3D
later date. Be warned: IT is VERY thorough!=3D20
Hope it's helpful,
Cece/LC/GA

http://www.readinglady.com/Downloads/Assessment/assessment.html
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Subject: RE: [mosaic] [PERIODIC mosaic DIGEST POSTING]
Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2003 14:36:54 -0600
From: "Sharon Reilly" <sreilly@sheboygan.k12.wi.us>

Help!!! If there is a kind soul out there I am in need of discussion =
questions for ch. 7 of Strategies That Work. I cannot get the study =
guide on my computer. Could someone email 4 or 5 questions that are in =
the study guide?
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

back to archive