Daily "4"

Our morning literacy block  uses the "Daily 5" structure.  Daily 5 emphasizes independence while reading and writing.  The students have been building their stamina throughout the year and are thoroughly engaged in their work during this time.  Each session begins with a whole group mini lesson and then students are given the choice of reading to self, listening to reading, working on writing, or engaging in word work.  This week, we've begun learning how to make these choices.  Prior to vacation, students were all working on the same thing.  Now, students will have a choice as to what they would like to do and where they'd like to do their work around the room.  I am keeping track, however, of what students choice, to ensure students are balancing their choices.   While students are situated around the room working on building their independent skills, I am able to spend more time in small groups teaching particular skills or conferring with children independently. I am impressed at the focus, hard work, concentration, and improvement the students are showing during this block of time.  Ask your child what choices they made today.  Check out this video showing our students engaged in Daily 5!  We will be learning about the last component (read to someone) next week.