Reflection

Through targeted summarizing strategy instruction, I saw growth in my students in a variety of ways. First and foremost, students' summarizing skills increased. Based on the pre-test and post-test scores, as well as graphic organizers and exit tickets completed throughout the study, students improved their ability to determine the main idea of the text, and to find details to support that idea.

Throughout and beyond the study, I saw students utilizing their strategies when reading different texts and in other content areas, such as Science and Social Studies.

Based on my observations, my students were also more self-sufficient and capable when comprehending informational text. As the study progressed, students seemed excited to come to their small group sessions and practice their summarizing skills. It was evident that their newly learned skills gave them the confidence to approach nonfiction text in a positive way.

I plan to use what I have learned and how I have grown as a professional in my future instruction.

First, I have gained valuable, research-based strategies for summarizing that I can use with students for years to come. My students' success and growth further proves the effectiveness of these strategies. I am confident that this addition to my instruction will benefit students in the future.

Second, I have learned how important it is to use data to drive instruction. When implementing future lessons, I will use the knowledge I have gained from this action research in order to best meet my students' needs as individual learners.

Finally, I look forward to the opportunity to implement action research into my classroom in the coming years. After everything that I have learned from this study, I feel excited and prepared to employ another data-driven study in the future.

Moving forward, I will use the knowledge and experience I have gained to be an intentional, reflective educator.