Reading

Same and Different

  • Oct. 17, 2024, 12:30 p.m.
The Same and Different activity is designed to help students activate prior knowledge and build vocabulary before reading. By presenting two pictures, situations, or problems, students are asked to use precise language to compare and contrast them. This strategy is particularly effective for language learners because it encourages them to engage with new vocabulary in context, helping them to better understand word meanings and usage. As they describe how the items are alike and different, students practice critical thinking by analyzing details, making connections, and articulating their thoughts clearly. Through this process, they refine their language skills and deepen their understanding of the topic. Wrapping up the conversation by reflecting on what they’ve learned about both pictured items and how their thinking has changed encourages students to evaluate their thought processes, further enhancing critical thinking and language development.

Do The Book

  • Oct. 17, 2024, 11:55 a.m.
The “DO the BOOK” instructional strategy is designed to engage students in actively learning vocabulary by physically acting out the words and actions from a story or informational text. By using body and facial expressions to mimic the actions of characters or concepts, students deepen their understanding of the vocabulary and connect words to meaning through movement. This strategy is particularly effective for language learners, as it provides a visual and kinesthetic way to comprehend new words. Acting out the text helps them grasp the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary and improves their ability to remember and use the words in the future. Through this interactive method, language learners can bridge the gap between hearing a word and fully understanding its context and application.

Background Knowledge Playbook

  • Oct. 17, 2024, 11:21 a.m.
The Background Knowledge Playbook page was designed for busy teachers and MTSS/RTI teams as a quick reference for instructional strategies and techniques to support students who lack the prior knowledge needed to connect with topics in reading, writing, science, social studies, and other content areas. I also provide suggestions and links to additional resources for each strategy or technique.

Alphaboxes 2 Pages

  • Oct. 17, 2024, 10:53 a.m.
This is a pdf of the Alphaboxes chart with 2 pages.

Alphaboxes 1 Page

  • Oct. 17, 2024, 10:45 a.m.
This is a pdf of the one page Alphaboxes chart.