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I was part of the TC Saturday Reunion STI and was able to choose from a number of Zoom lectures to learn about ELA topics. I chose many that were related to my goal of incorporating decodables and phonic assessment data into the formation and practice of reading groups. Through this work I learned about the difference between sight words and high frequency words and the fact that many times high frequency words can be decoded or have parts that can be decoded to reinforce that skill.
We were asked to think about different teaching lenses we have been discovering or wondering about, which got me thinking about Responsive Classroom. I would love to learn new ways to incorporate new decodable texts into my library and everyday use while also using some of the Responsive Classroom strategies, in order to increase engagement.
How are my students leading learning, exploring the unknown, and finding joy in each experience?
-Playful learning lives in the middle of free play and direct instruction, this is guided play and games
-Playful mindsets can be cultivated by asking "what if..." and there is more than one way
What does playful learning look like in the classroom?
Students work together to explore different materials, such as math manipulatives like counters and geo-blocks. We also use play-dough to engage students in multi-sensory play to help learn and practice snap words. Students are engaged in guided discovery and group projects to express their thinking and learning through different multi-sensory materials.
What is one thing you tried?
I had students explore math materials before we used them. For example, we explored 20 counters and students made different patterns or shapes with the counters before we used the yellow and red sides to show addition and subtraction equations. Students were noticing the changing amounts of colors through play before they were told to use these counters to show their math thinking. It helped with engagement, and made for greater enjoyment when using these mundane tools. Students also explored different ways to show a number through the patterns they created.
Peer Comments:
I love that you allowed students to explore the math materials before using them. Opportunities to freely explore materials are always so fun to observe as a teacher! It's low stakes for children and you learn a lot about your students and their thinking. Thanks for sharing!
-Jenna Riefenhauser
I did not know there was a difference between sight words and high frequency words! I've always used those terms interchangeably. I think it's great that you are thinking about ways to "tap into" your Responsive Classroom toolbox to support your goal. There are so many games and activities that can be modified to include academics, especially phonics.
-Angelina Scaringella
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