Daily Five Linky Party

Okay - I couldn't resist!  I love The Daily Five so I might as well join in on the fun.   I've read the book at least 3 times already and used "The Daily Five" structure for the past 3 years.  Each year I do it a little different to make it work with my schedule and class, and already have some changes in mind for this year. I can't say that I've done it perfectly, but I keep trying.  I'll be sharing some of my challenges and things that have worked along the way, and I'll also be checking in on all of the other blogs in hopes to learn a lot during this study.  I am excited and looking forward to a great upcoming year doing "The Daily Five."

 The following are a few questions that are going around blogger land so I'll add my answers to them as well, therefore keeping focused on chapter one.

1. On pages 4-6, the authors present two different pictures of their classrooms. In thinking about and reflecting on your own practice, how would you characterize your literacy block? Does it look more like the first or second scenario, or is it somewhere in between? How will you change it?

Since I've been doing "The Daily Five" for the past few years in third grade my literacy block looks more like the second.  My students are doing authentic reading and writing activities very independently.  I work with students one-on-one the whole time without interruptions.  It's great - it truly works. 

 2. The typical teacher is very busy having students do lots of different activities. How is what you are having students do now in your classroom creating quality readers and writers?

I don't create reading and writing games or activities and my students still LOVE IT! They love that they can do what they love - read and write - like a big kid, without all of the busy work.  My mini lessons give the students a challenge to work on and they are up for it.  It might just be a new reading strategy or the next thing to work on in their writing, but they give it a try and can't wait to share it.  I love that I don't have to grade busy work, but can teach my students what they need in their reading and writing.  This is the perfect structure for differentiation since I work with them one-on-one, the students are always working at their level.  Therefore, they feel successful and continue to grow.  I see huge, noticeable growth in reading and writing throughout the year.

3. What sets the Daily 5 structure apart from what you are doing in your classroom?

It's definitely different from what I used to do. I used to have interruptions and now I have NONE!  It's true.  I followed the book to a T - at the beginning of the year - building stamina just a few minutes at a time.  The students all know what is expected and love it.  They can get their work done and feel successful. 


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