Building+a+Classroom+Focused+on+Literacy

What is Reading Workshop?

 * Structure and routine - not a curriculum or a set of lessons to follow
 * Predictable - mini-lesson, independent reading/reading work time, closing/sharing time
 * Reading Work Time - independent reading, buddy reading, literacy stations, guided reading, conferring with a teacher, etc.
 * Some classrooms structure in this fashion: mini-lesson, independent reading, sharing, literacy stations

Classroom Environment (Atmosphere and Arrangement)

 * Focus Question: //How does the physical classroom set up make a difference in students' reading achievement and engagement? How does the tone and atmosphere during the literacy block impact student engagement in literacy activities?//
 * Do a Classroom Sketch (your current or ideal classroom arrangement with a focus on areas to emphasize literacy development) in your notebook or on a blank sheet of paper
 * Click here to download [[file:Literacy Environment and Routines Chart.doc]]
 * Complete the Literacy Environment and Routines Chart Parts A and B
 * Click here to explore an interactive map of a classroom designed with literacy in mind.
 * Click here to watch a video entitled "Creating a Literate Community" from 2:00 minutes through 32:30 minutes. You can pause the video after each section (Lecture, Classroom Excerpts, and Discussion) to reflect or take notes. Write your reflections in your notebook, or download the following graphic organizer to type your reflections:[[file:Video Reflections Organizer.doc]]
 * Click on the discussion tab, post at least one question or response that you have after viewing the video, and respond to at least two other teachers' posts before our next session.
 * Complete Literacy Environment and Routines Chart Part C

Organization and Schedule

 * Focus Question: //How can we structure our literacy block to maximize students' opportunities to read connected text and write extended text?//
 * How much time is devoted to Reading Workshop? One suggestion:
 * Mini-Lesson = 10-15 minutes
 * Independent Reading/Reading Work Time = 15 - 45 minutes
 * Sharing = 5-10 minutes
 * Download the daily schedule template to begin drafting a schedule to incorporate the components of reading workshop.


 * Defined Work Areas - designated spaces for children to do their best thinking
 * Room Tours