The ELL Teacher's Toolbox- Entry #9

Strategies 1-3: Independent Reading, Literacy Conversations, and Graphic Organizers

 1. What is something new that I learned?

I found it very interesting how the author discussed the importance of graphic organizers as a part of daily instruction. I am familiar with the idea of using graphic organizers as part of lessons to engage students, but I really enjoyed hearing how ELL students can use graphic organizers daily to scaffold new learning and organize their thoughts.

2. How can I apply this in the classroom? 

I could apply the use of graphic organizers in my daily instruction by using exit slips, research opportunities, and reading opportunities in coordination with the use of these organizers. ELL students can use these daily organizers to document new learning and organize their thoughts. Additionally, it will be an engaging way for students to work towards new understanding. 

3. What are my top 3 take-aways? 

1) Graphic organizers can be used to support a variety of learning tasks that meet any of the common core anchor standards in all four domains.

2) Book interviews are another way for students to interact with the books that they and their classmates are reading. 

3) Reading self-selected books in pairs can build engagement in literacy.  

4. How can I connect this information with something I have learned in the classroom?

In Lit. Block, the professors heavily emphasized the importance of graphic organizers in reading instruction. These can also be used to organize and construct writing pieces. By allowing students to use graphic organizers, they can better understand the material they are using and have a hands-on approach to instruction. 

5. How can I connect this information with something I learned in practicum/internship?

One of my CTs I observed used graphic organizers daily as part of an interactive notebook. This allowed students to have a hands-on, engaging look at the material they were learning daily. Additionally, they could easily organize material in ways that were easily understood, increasing their schema and background knowledge.