Reading
Workshop
The
Balanced Literacy approach to teaching reading is used
at Longwood Middle School with the guidance from the
Reading and Writing Project of Teacher’s College.
Students are provided with approximately sixty minutes
of uninterrupted time to receive reading instruction. A
mini-lesson is presented to the class. The class then is
provided with an opportunity to apply the learned
material to their current reading assignment. Small
group instruction is given to students based on their
reading needs. While the teacher provides small
group instruction other students are reading and working
independently, applying the newly taught skills.
Students’ needs drive small group instruction. The
students use a Reader’s Notebook which is designed to be
used in class and to last throughout the school year. It
also provides a method for students to have ongoing
written dialogue with their teachers concerning the
books they are reading independently.
Writing
Workshop
The writing
workshop is also being taught utilizing the methods of
Balanced Literacy under the guidance of the Reading and
Writing Project of Teacher’s College. Students will be
provided with a wealth of writing opportunities, which
will incorporate all academic areas. Students will be
provided with mini-lessons and will have the opportunity
to develop those skills through their writing journey.
Vocabulary or word study is incorporated into our
students’ reading and writing experiences as well as
using the Rebecca Sitton Spelling Series.