Scene one: Reading Workshop. Conferences. Question this week is “How are you feeling about your progress with your Reading Challenge? What’s happening?”
Ms Gelson: Asks the question
Student: “It’s going really well. I have read so many books! Last year I just mostly read graphics. But since I’ve been in your class, I’ve read so many novels. I really like realistic fiction. And I LOVE historical!”
Ms. Gelson (outwardly) Smiles and takes furious notes. Checks student’s Reading Challenge chart. Smiles bigger.
(inwardly) Cartwheels. Like twelve of them!
Scene two: Thirty minutes later. Word Work. Students working independently. Resource Teacher arrives.
Ms. Gelson: Shares this quote from student. (Beaming)
Resource Teacher: (Expected big smile) “Amazing. That sounds like something you told her to say.”
Ms. Gelson: “I know! It’s that good.”
Various later scenes: Teacher engaged in various reflective moments recognizing the strength of the current reading community. The over stuffed book boxes. The long lists of names of students wanting to read titles just book talked. The student who is suddenly taking a book home every night. The hopeful requests, “Can you get the next one in the series?” The engagement during independent reading time. A reading community.
I know.
It’s that good.
I am participating in the Slice of Life challenge to write and publish a post every day in March.
Slice of Life is hosted by Two Writing Teachers. I thank them for the community they provide. Read more slices here.
It IS that good. So energizing and exciting to read this great post about REAL reading in your classroom.
Wow your energy lifts off the page!! Well done, teach!
What a magical moment! I am glad you captured it in writing!
This is what I want for all kids (and all teachers, too). Way to build this community of readers with passion and energy… what a gift!
Kudos to you and the bright spots in your day!
I love that you include your resource teacher as part of your team, what a great moment when your student discovers the types of books she likes!
This post fills my heart with so much joy! Every child should have this literacy loving life! Keep it up Carrie-you rock!
Yay! These good moments validate what you do, don’t they?! Your dedication to teaching and caring about your students pay off!
A magical land of a room of readers! Perfect!