AHembree

In chapter 7, the authors discuss how to initiate independent reading through an orderly classroom environment, sharing a teachers passion for reading, reading with others, story chats, and guided reading.  I agree with the authors because I have seen this in my own classroom.  The love for reading has grown exponentially since I have been conducting a "readers workshop" type environment.  The students love to read to me, but I am surprised at how they enjoy grouping up and taking turns reading and discussing books.   The chapter gets more interesting when the authors suggest different ways to conference and allow the children to respond to different texts.  I plan to use these type questions during my reading workshops.

In chapter 8, different forms and types of assessment are shown to aid in a productive analysis of student reading and work.  At this time, I do not use any forms because the students are just now learning to read; however, before the year is over I want them to be able to produce a true "log" that they will be doing in some first grade classes.

Overall, this book has helped put a true meaning to "The Reading Workshop".  I have really enjoyed my reading time this year because of the workshop aspect.  I plan to continue with this student-centered environment and bring in new ideas from this book.