reply to Azure...

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Archive : 2006 : November : 12

reply to Azure...
By iteach4th

Hi,
I'll try to answer your questions....

First of all, note that my kids are 4th graders, but here's what I do. We write many letters together about short picture books we read and discuss. By the time I ask
the students to write their own letters to me, they've heard and seen many possibilities. I do, also, have a list of the requirements and possible reflections in their reading journal for them to refer to if needed. Once we get started, I always share some good, thoughtful letters that I've received (with the author's permission, of course!). We check to be sure that person has included

all of the required parts. That is really powerful, and the kids always try to mimic the "good" letters. Also, they are always so excited to read the letters I write back to them. Yes, it takes some time to write that many individual letters, but it is so worth it!

I really think even 1st graders would be able to do this! I truly think that "thinking" about what we are reading is the most important tool to comprehending it. When the students have to "think" about what to write to you, they understand it A WHOLE LOT BETTER. How wonderful to get them in the habit of doing it in first grade!

My best advice would be to go slowly. Do many practice letters together, both out loud and in print for the kids to see. Post a couple of those on your wall for reference.

Hope I've help a bit. Let me know if you have any questions!:s)