Gradual Release of Responsibility in Literacy

Effective literacy instruction includes using the gradual release of responsibility.  Teachers must shift the load of the thinking and work from the teacher to the students.  However, before we can do that, we must decide what learning we want to happen.  To do this, we must establish the purpose first when creating lessons. What do I want my students to learn and why is this important?  How is learning this going to make my students a better reader and/or writer? How will I know that my students understand and demonstrate the skill?  Objectives will set the purpose and allow students to understand the expectations.  Establishing why the lesson is important (relevancy) will help motivate, as well.   When writing objectives, we want to include the academic vocabulary used by our Core Standards, as well as the skill or strategy and finally the learning activity that demonstrates understanding.  When the students understand the purpose, everyone benefits.

Want to know more?  The website below gives short, yet informative, information on this instructional model of teaching.
https://www.mheonline.com/_treasures/pdf/douglas_fisher.pdf

Math Technology? Yes, Please!

...and not only is it new (to me) math technology, it also incorporates modeling and communication with mathematics! Check out this new app, MathChat, at getmathchat.com.

MathChat, available for iPhone and iPad

This application, used appropriately, would address multiple Standards for Mathematical Practice, specifically MP3: Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others and MP4: Model with mathematics.

Have you used a technology tool to facilitate math instruction recently? If so, please share your experience with your colleagues by leaving a comment below!

- Sarah