This morning, we had Spelling Week 5 Read "A Good Breakfast". On the top right, we wrote the name of the assignment and took notes. Our notes reviewed the patterns:
Long e : ei and ie
Short e: e and ea
2+ syllables
Then on the left, under our names, we wrote what we needed to do: 1. Read; 2. Underline the pattern; 3. Label. Along the left side, in the margins, we wrote an estimate ("about") how many examples we would find in each paragraph. We started our "not" list.
We worked on the title and first paragraph together. We worked on the second paragraph with a partner or group of three. We came together to share our learning and discuss our findings. We added to our "not" list.
Then students continued to work with their partners. It is one of my favorite teaching routines of the week. We can't do it every week, but when we can make it happen, it is so much fun! I love how students are ENGAGED. I love how they "get it" and the process. I LOVE how they talk WITH each other and have meaningful conversations about words, if it is an example of the pattern, or Not. Then they support their thinking with examples. It is authentic.
We have a set time we work on this. If there are groups that finish, it is great. If we have students who practice the next few paragraphs, it is great. The learning is in the collaboration, the discussion, and the process. Everyone is successful who participates.
The bonus, when we are reading other texts, and students begin to see the patterns from previous weeks and this week in what they are reading. They are applying our learning beyond the lesson.
Sometimes students wonder, "When am I ever going to use this?!" Often, you don't know what you don't know until it becomes part of your tool box, and you can look back and see your own excitement for what you see now.
We are learning, even when we are NOT aware of how all the pieces are coming together!
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