Rereading

I do use a strategy for rereading with the older kids who are very reluctant to read anything once, much less twice! I use POETRY. We read a poem aloud and I have them write down their reaction to the poem and rate their understanding on a 1 to 5 scale. Then, I tell them to read the poem again, silently, and add anything new to their interpretation and rate their understanding after the second read. Lastly, I have them pair with another person to discuss the poem and rate understanding a third time. Poems just seem like an easier vehicle for making the point, and they like doing this exercise. It inevitably leads to a "deeper" understanding and a rich whole group discussion.

I do remember Lauren sharing her story about the high school teacher that made her highlight her text and how much she appreciated being taught that strategy. I have encouraged it ever since. As a matter of fact, this year, when I visit classrooms for HSPA practice, I have them trained to not even bother to read without a pencil in their hand. They told me they did not think they were allowed to mark the test--what a great discovery. And the post-its--even the older kids love them. I think post-its are some of the best money spent in the classroom. They will not only use them--they ask for more because they "will be reading ahead." Again, those little notes in the book lead to very rich whole group discussion. I love it!