Innovative Approaches to Literacy Instruction

Presented by
Laura Candler or Pat Calfee
Targeted for Grade 2 -5 Teachers

No public dates currently scheduled; email Pat Calfee to
bring this workshop to your school or district!

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Time: 8:30 to 4:00 Date: TBA Location: TBA Registration Deadline: TBA

Workshop Highlights Discover innovative approaches to literacy and reading instruction including the following (see full descriptions): Reading Workshop Strategic Read Aloud T2B Questioning Strategies Whole Class Novel Studies Balanced Literacy Framework Learn classroom-tested strategies to engage all learners and boost reading achievement  Discover how to promote the JOY of reading in your class Experience hands-on activities and learn the management strategies to make them work in your own classroom Find out how to implement small groups and literacy centers effectively in your classroom  Walk away with activities you can implement the next day Registration Includes Large 3-ring binder with over 85 pages of workshop handouts and blackline masters jam-packed with teaching ideas and activities Coffee and light morning refreshments Power Packs available for half price

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Put the Joy Back Into Literacy Instruction!

Are you stuck in a reading rut? That is, you love to read, but your current literacy instruction methods aren't motivating your students to love reading? Maybe it's time for a change. This workshop offers an introduction to a wide variety of reading instructional methods, from Reading Workshop to Literacy Centers. After attending this workshop, you'll be able to create a literacy program that's right for you and your students. Most of the methods below can be used with a basal reading program or with novels and trade books. Not only will your students become better readers and test-takers, they will learn to LOVE reading! The bonus for you is that you will also love teaching reading!

Overview of Five Innovative Approaches Presented in this Workshop

• Reading Workshop - Motivate kids to be joyful independent readers by using the Reading Workshop approach. In this model, students spend large blocks of time reading independently or with a partner. Instruction is delivered through mini-lessons and individual conferences.
• Strategic Read Aloud- Read-aloud time is special in every classroom. But you can also use this time to model reading strategies and squeeze in a bit of instruction. Make every precious read-aloud moment count with these engaging strategies!
• Whole Class Novel Studies - Everyone reads the same novel at the same place, but instruction is anything but dull! Periodically students break out into small discussion groups or other response activities.
• Text 2 Brain Questioning - This method was developed by Fayetteville NC educator Sue Moody and is a simple yet powerful variation of the (Question-Answer Relationship) QAR strategy. Your students will become more proficient test-takers by learning to identify where they can find answers to reading questions.
• Balanced Literacy Framework - Few educators debate the value of phonics versus whole language; most now agree that children learn to read best through a balanced approach to literacy instruction. This session will provide practical strategies for implementing a balanced literacy program organized around 3 components: whole group instruction, small group instruction, and literacy centers. Participants will leave the workshop with the confidence and know-how to set up and manage this 3-part literacy framework.

You will learn...

• Simple strategies for implementing Literacy Centers in your classroom
• The secret to organizing and managing reading instruction
• Strategies to motivate your struggling learners as well as challenge your advanced learners
• Easy ways to incorporate novels and trade books into your basal reading program
• Interactive strategies that keep students engaged and on-task
• Loads of simple yet effective classroom management techniques
• How to energize your students and keep them motivated throughout the year
• Creative ways to use graphic organizers and foldables in reading
• How to differentiate reading instruction for all types of learners

Teachers who have participated in this workshop say...

• This is the best staff development I've had. There were a plethora of activities that can be implemented immediately. The T2B questioning technique was the most valuable aspect of the workshop. This will help our students with their ability to take the state exam. You are a wonderful presenter and I have enjoyed the time. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise with us. ~ Sharon Riley, 5th grade teacher
• The binder had so much all in one place. Laura knowing that she was under a time limit still made time to answer our questions and give more feedback. ~ Ellen Liss, 2nd grade teacher
• I loved this workshop! I have been downloading your materials for years and it was great to finally meet you. I will use many of the ideas to step up my reading program. The 60 minute rotation suggestions were wonderful. I have many literacy centers that will fit nicely into this schedule. ~ Enid Borwick, 5th grade teacher
• This workshop gave me useful ideas to implement in my classroom. This is my first year teaching 3rd grade and Laura's ideas will help me teach content and skills more effectively. The activities presented will keep my students engaged and allow them to work at their ability level. ~ Lisa Steward, 3rd grade teacher
• The workshop definitely exceeded my expectations! The ideas were so practical and Laura is so "right on" about what goes on in the classroom. I especially valued that Laura gave background about how she came to certain practices. She didn't just give up when something went wrong in instruction - she evaluated, analyzed, and restructured instruction. ~ Beth Goldberg, Title I Reading teacher

Who Should Attend?

• Teachers of grades 2 - 5 (Note: Other teachers are welcome to attend, but they will have to adapt the blackline masters and other materials).
• Elementary School Administrators
• Instructional Coaches and Literacy Coaches (School or District Level)
• Students enrolled in teacher education programs