Week 5- Courtney

This week went unbelievably great! I was very nervous about teaching an authentic writing lesson to get to a mystery story. Since it had never been done this way before by anybody that I have talked to, I was afraid that the result would be not so great. I did the mystery bag items Monday and had them fill out an organizer for that saying what it would be used for in their story. Then they had a "Recipe" that they needed to fill out with all of the elements. Once they had the two of those they needed to start writing. I decided to make three sheets that actually say beginning, middle, and end on them to organize this part of the lesson. We talked about what should be in each part and the kids came up with the requirements. I posted different sheets for each class based on what they said. They are so into writing these stories right now! Yesterday 45 minutes of each class was used just to write. They are long and coming out great! I am so happy my ideas were a success and that I put it all together. I was a little worried that all the pieces would not go together. This week we will finish putting together the puzzle and do some peer editing and critiquing and draw our covers. I will then be able to grade them, which I am really excited to do since they are looking so great!

Monday I have my "read-a-thon". I think this will be a great way to get the kids into reading and allow them to have time to do it. They will also be able to bring blankets and wear Jammies so it will be fun! I am planning on joining right in as long as discipline is not a problem. I think that just my example of sitting with my book will go a long ways.

This week a student stole a bag of treats from me and sadly it was not returned. The suggestion to me was to stop homework club until further notice. I am sad to do this, but I think it might just have to be done since the kids are getting very angry about me not giving answers, but only helping. They needed to take on more responsibility and need the ability to do their homework in order to be successful next year and in the future.