Slow Enough to Notice

There is a beautiful 22-acre garden near our home. I have walked its peaceful pathways a few times. Though I always enjoy it, I notice a lot more when my pace is leisurely instead of brisk: a buzzing chorus of honeybees drawn to the heady scent of roses in bloom, intricate geometric patterns on soil dappled by sunlight, and rich variations of wooden bark on towering sentinels.

Slowing down enough to notice enhances the pleasure in many things.

A walk.

A song.

A meal.

And a book.

Students who race through material because they have been conditioned to think that the only valued reading is fast reading are missing out on rich depths that books have to offer.

It is why we so appreciate the work of Kylene Beers and Robert Probst. They are determined to help students luxuriate in text—to think more deeply and respond more profoundly. Rather than a chore or something that must be done to pass high-stakes testing, they present engagement with text as a completely authentic and natural part of reading. Their approach helps students learn to immerse themselves in books, attending to what the author says as well as paying attention to how their own minds and hearts respond. They are encouraged to enjoy what they read, pausing just long enough to reflect on the thoughts that pop into their heads. They are inspired to decide what to take to heart as they allow books to mold the people they’re becoming.

Summer is a perfect time to savor the professional books in our reading pile, to garner new ideas, refine current practices, and renew our enthusiasm for a profession that is so important. In addition to all that our mentors have to offer, consider browsing the extensive resources we have developed for you here. We are sure we’ve got ideas and experience that will help you have your most enjoyable year of teaching yet. 

 

 

News from The Daily CAFE

 

 

Strong Skills . . .
Cross-Check Motions*
These meaningful moves will help students remember what they are checking for when they cross-check.   

 

Curse or Resource? . . .
Using a Basal with Daily 5 and CAFE*
Mandatory use of a basal can present a conundrum for teachers committed to the Daily 5 and CAFE. Allison Behne shares how we can provide excellent instruction while still honoring district expectations. 
 

Book Looks . . .
Here are three fun titles for strategy instruction.

      •   Mine! by Jeff Mack

      •   Dragon Was Terrible by Kelly DiPucchio

      •   Nerdy Birdy by Aaron Reynolds

     

Focus on Health . . .
Energy to Grow
Carol reminds us to nourish ourselves so we can grow.