Unpacking Text

I have been working with my students to really digest and comprehend text that they read, especially, non-fiction informative text. As we continue to work on our current unit in technology I had the kids split into partner groups and work with highlighters to extract important information from texts.  I was impressed with what they thought was important and even more surprised by their ability to share out with the rest of the class when they were finished. 

I gave each one of the partners a different color highlighter so I could see who marked what passages. I then wondered around the room and listened carefully to their conversations. What I can tell you is this.  The moment my kids had those highlighters in their hands the name of the game changed. They suddenly had a different hat on. They were truly “unpacking” the text. I just wish I could have them highlight everything they read! 

I encourage you to try it. See if it turns your kiddos into critical readers as well.  

Talking Back! The Good Kind

My students have been doing a whole bunch of talking back. Talking back to books, that is. I love Beth Newingham and have followed her work for several years now. She put together a fabulous Readers Notebook that she uses in her literacy program.  While I don’t use the whole notebook I do use her post it note tracker sheet.

I teach my kids how to talk back to their books while reading. I model this during read alouds and guided reading and teach a mini lesson at the beginning of the school year.  As part of our Centers the kids Read to Self. Every couple of weeks I ask them to use the post it note trackers sheet and “talk back” to their books.  My students really like this because they get to use post it notes (something a little special) and I like it because I get to see their thought process as they read to themselves.

 The "talking back" form is available on Beth's website and is free.  Try it out with your students...they will love Talking Back!!