Gail Boushey
September 4, 2015
Issue #372
We recently got three emails from the same person asking for help finding a video that we showed in Los Angeles. Her urgency was high: “School starts next week and our whole team is going to be doing Daily 5 and CAFE for the first time, and we want to implement it the best we can. We need to see the video one more time!”
These teachers are wading into unfamiliar waters, and they want to be successful. Here are a few things to think about, whether you are launching Daily 5 and CAFE for the first time or the 20th.
You will make mistakes. So will your students. Learn from them.
Accept that the launch may not match the perfect picture you have in your mind. It is the process of practicing, correcting, and shaping that eventually leads to the independence and calm buzz of engagement that defines the success we want.
We are unique, each of our students is unique, and each of our situations is unique.
Starting something new requires stepping into something unfamiliar. We ask our students to do this each and every day, and we are there to scaffold their learning and turn momentary failures into stepping-stones of success.
You are not alone. In addition to your teammates, a tremendous variety of resources are on our website to support you as begin this journey.
We are here for you. You can do it. It's going to be great.
News from The Daily CAFE
Questions Answered . . .
Which do you prefer, student-managed or teacher-managed check in?
Here are a few things we consider when deciding on a method for checking in during Daily 5.
Purposeful Practice . . .
Helping Davis Increase Accuracy by Cross-Checking*
While modeling a one-on-one conferring session for Cindy Danielson, Gail nudges Davis to cross-check to improve his accuracy.
Assessment Matters . . .
Touching Base with Touch Points*
Every time we meet with a student in a small group and one-on-one we give them a Touch Point. Here is how and why.
Try Today . . .
Classroom Library Makeover—Seven Steps
Want to create a library system that students can manage independently? This one has worked in all grades.
Focus on Health . . .
Feeling Calm
Find your special forest and allow your mind to take you there whenever you need to escape.
*Available to members
Professional Development Opportunities
2015 Live WorkshopsAt each location, we focus the first day on The Daily 5 and Math Daily 3. Day two is CAFE Intensive. Learn about all the new content by following any of these links.
Live Workshops in Canada
Lethbridge, Alberta Sept 29, 30 |
2015 Online SeminarsPrefer short bursts of information combined with independent learning? Each session offers separate seminars on Daily 5, CAFE, and Math Daily 3. October 4–October 31 Up & Running with the Daily 5
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Our new how-to video, shot in third-grade and fifth-grade classrooms, is available through subscription for online streaming or as a DVD at