Chapter 5

The more I read, the more I admire our teachers. This method of teaching literacy is so different from the one I used many years ago. I thought I was a good teacher, that most of my students were learning.....Now I think I would like to go back and have the chance to teach this way and see what the results would be. I am sure it would be exciting to have Regie in the classroom, demonstrating these techniques of responsive teaching, with useful feedback that is specific and aimed at instructing, rather than general praise. And to experience the students beginning to be able to give themselves their own feedback as they move toward independence.
I was also interested to read about grouping again, and to see that she does not generally use homogeneous grouping once students are readers. I agree that until that time, grouping by ability is beneficial when teaching basic skills and strategies. I also agree with her point about summative assessments not providing a comprehensive picture of a child's achievements. There were times when I was teaching that were discouraging because it was obvious that some standardized scores from my students did not truly reflect their accomplishments. Formative assessments are more accurate in my opinion too.
I was also glad to see that she encourages teamwork among teachers, and that she advocates additional classroom support that is so necessary for success. And I was impressed with the example of Thommie Piercy who met with each teacher to talk about the reading progress of every student!!