New Book - Nonfiction Mentor Text

Since I had to go into the city yesterday to work at an Early Childhood conference, I had the opportunity to read the newly released Nonfiction Mentor Texts by Lynne Dorfman and Rose Capelli. Riding the train and ferry gave me ample time to peruse the text. In the same fashion as their first book - Mentor Text, this book is chock full of great ideas, and titles of text to use. I love the resource at the end that listed every text mentioned throughout the book by chapter for ease in finding. This is a must have resource for all who are trying to incorporate more nonfiction reading and writing into their day. The On Your Own section at the end of each chapter gives you a nice starting point for implementing lessons. I can't wait to share the ideas with the teachers in my building. If you have read it let me know your thoughts.

Laura

Nonfiction Mentor Texts is available from Stenhouse publishing.

National Board Certification

Recently Barack Obama discussed the value of National Board Certified Teachers. I am happy to see that he is supporting excellence in teaching. Having gone through the process of National Board certification I can attest to the impact it had on me. National Board certification is an intense and personal journey that many teachers have decided to embark upon. Those that achieve it feel empowered to better meet the needs of their students. So, just what is National Board certification anyway? Here are two links I suggest you visit to get further information on National Board certification -

National Board Council of New York
http://www.teachercenter.org/nbcnys

National Board website
http://www.nbpts.org

I would like to offer support to you as you work toward your certification. I am available to answer questions you may have about the process. I also would love to network with other NBPTS teachers and candidates.

Bike Ride to Support Multiple Sclerosis

Every year my brother George rides with more than 1,000 other people to raise money to support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year the society hope to raise $1.6M. George hopes to raise $1,000. He will ride on September 13th and 14th, 100 miles each day in support of those that can't. As you know all the resources available on my website are free of charge. If you find it a helpful resource I ask that you consider making a donation to this worthy cause. No donation is too small and all are tax deductables. This disease has impacted our family and close friends. Thank you so much for your continued support.

For information, and to make a donation using your debit or credit card go to -

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/georgehess

Have a great day!

Laura

Debbie Miller's New Book

"In these times of scripted programs and prepackaged materials I know it may be tempting to surrender," Debbie writers. "But who among us is going to keep up the good fight? Who among us is willing to stand up for what we know is right? I'm in, and I hope you are , too."

This quote came from Debbie Miller's new book -
Teaching with Intention: Defining Beliefs, Aligning Practices and Taking Action K - 5
available through Stenhouse Publishers

You can preview part of the text online for free at -
http://www.stenhouse.com/html/millerpreview.htm?r=n144

I for one know how hard it is for teachers to resist the temptation to find that quick fix. The one program that will make teaching that much easier. Teachers are overworked and underpaid, and in most cases in NYC drowning in paperwork. Then along come the publishers touting their program as the answer to all prayers. Everything in one place - right at your fingertips. Don't believe the promises. There will never be a one size fits all program that will solve all your problems. Children are diverse learners and need diverse instructional practices. I think we should feel honored that we have the opportunity to create our own road maps even if it is hard work.

I for one will be waiting patiently to read the rest of Debbie's book. Please post your thoughts on the opening preview after you read it.

Enjoy.

Mentor Text for Launching 3 - 5

Launching in these grades looks very different from launching in the primary grades. We actually don't need to even launch in the traditional sense. The children should have a foundation for the workshop when they arrive at our doorsteps in September. So... what do you do to start your year? What text do you use to get the year off on the right foot? Feel free to share your ideas here so we can get a good collection together. I look forward to reading your thoughts.

Laura

Mentor Text For Launching K - 2

Now that we have some time to reflect I'd like to start organizing for the coming school year. In thinking about one of the challenges we face each day, finding the right materials to match lessons is high on the list. I thought I would start a notebook for next year with sections in it for each unit I teach. In there I would keep notes on text I use, copies of any clippings I find, etc. I'd like to start this first blog entry around the first units we will be teaching in September - Launching. What mentor text have you all used to get the year off on the right foot? Please remember to include the full title of the text you are discussing, the author's name and any other information you feel we should know. I look forward to reading your entries.

Laura
readinglady.com