Both chapters assigned for this weeks reading were insightful

and thought provoking. Chapter 10 in Classrooms That Work and

Chapter 1 in Words Their Way demonstrate that effective literacy
instruction is complex and includes several components that shape
students individual development. In chapter 1 of Words Their Way I
thought that the Braid of Literacy is a particularly beneficial
representation of literacy because it illustrates that literacy goes far
beyond simply learning to read and write- it includes orthography,
vocabulary, life experiences, communication skills, and oral language
practice. This chapter indicates that the best way to promote
development in word study is to make the curriculum relevant to texts
in all subjects, not just Language Arts. The more frequently students
are exposed to word study words throughout the school day, the more
they expand their knowledge of vocabulary and increase their literacy
skills without even realizing it. Reflecting back on my personal
schooling experience, this idea of hands on, informal practice of
language development skills makes sense. When I was in elementary
school I was constantly developing my literacy skills subconsciously in
all subjects- comprehending word problems in math, following step-bystep instruction when conducting science experiments, writing
research papers about the Civil War in Social Studies. Although it is
extremely important for educators to lay the foundation of reading,
writing, and spelling development, it is equally as vital to promote selfregulation and efficacy so students are in charge of their own learning
at an early age.
One concept in Chapter 10 of Classrooms that Work that
specifically struck me was the impact that Think Writes can have in
all subjects if incorporated correctly in the classroom. Particularly with
informational texts, I believe it is extremely important for students to
have time to comprehend what they have read, and write down
thoughts on the subject without the fear of being wrong. Think Writes
are a great way to foster higher level thinking in students by having
them connect, predict and analyze informational texts with their peers
or by themselves.