CNewman

Chapters 4-6 give ideas on topics for the mini-lessons, characteristics of a good learner and sample mini-lessons.  These chapters also give more information on how to conduct workshops.  These chapters gave me a better understanding of the workshops and confirmed my belief that this would not be appropriate for first graders until October or November.  I like the choices of books to teach certain skills.  The eight reading strategies are also helpful.  Good readers should always be asking questions while they are reading and improving their comprehension skills.  The mini-lessons and teacher conferencing should strengthen these skills.  Although I still prefer the way I do workshops for first graders, I do see some ideas that I can use.  I particularly like the 5 finger rule.  As you read, put a finger on a word you don't know and if you use five fingers the book is too hard.