I am about to start my Inquiry project and am thinking of looking at improving reading comprehension through using a web based programme called "Readtheory". I have started running- records to collect data for our reports at the end of the term and have noticed quite a few students have read accurately but have little comprehension of the text. I discovered Readtheory at the beginning of the year but have only used it as an activity in my reading rotation. The programme assesses the right level for the student to begin on then progressively moves up levels as the reader consistently answers the comprehension questions at the end of short texts. As my students tend to rush their reading activities, (prior knowledge, read, read to someone, vocabulary, comprehension, reread/complete prior knowledge sheet and finally Readtheory) in order to get on a computer, I thought it would be a draw card to have them working on computers for their reading and in doing so improve their engagement with reading.
I am also thinking about "Growth Mindset" as this is my bedtime reading at the moment and I have been asking myself some tricky questions. As I went to school in the 60's and 70's I wasn't brought up to believe I could improve my IQ so after all that brain washing, do I have a growth mindset or a fixed mindset? I like to think my students can do anything and I tell them that but do I believe it about myself???
The other thing I have been thinking about is resilience...Are my student displaying the grit they need when they struggle?
Kia ora
ReplyDeleteFound your blog via Google Plus following. Some thoughtful questions here. It's good to see that your Inquiry inquiring has lead you to some pertinent bits and pieces for your teaching.
I agree about the Growth Mindset - I am constantly talking with my kids about how important it is, and I am beginning to feel like I am doing more of it myself. We often korero about the neural pathways we are developing - especially in Maths, and I need to hold that thought myself particularly when it comes to this line of study that we're involved in.
Good on you for getting the business done in a meaningful way!
Jane Boz