[LIT] Management Details

[kimberlee hannan]

Lucenda,
I think it was Donald Graves who said something to the effect, "If you can't
teach writing at least three days a week, then don't bother."  I actually
just saw that line again the other day, and smiled because I truly believe
it.  I have the kids write Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays in Writer's
Workshop, and read on Thursdays and Fridays in Reader's Workshop.  And to
tell you the truth I HATE IT.

I have a 49 period.  I am pretty good at getting the kids started, so I have
the entire 49 minutes to teach.  I am required to do 5 minutes every day of
Standards Plus.  A test practice tool.  I don't like it much, but I have
seen worse.  Then by the time I do a 10-15 mini lesson, and take status of
the class, the kids have about 20 minutes independent time, which is not
nearly enough time.  I tried giving up the status time and just roving to
collect pages and drafts.  I couldn't get around to everyone every day.
Besides, I like how they see what each other is reading and writing.

I am thinking about going to reading and writing units maybe switched off
monthly or quarterly for next year, as long as the lesson time, independent
time, and sharing or follow-up time is very consistent and predictable.  I
see the kids need more chunks of time.  There is never enough time to get
into anything; them, the work, or me, the conferencing.  I also like the
notebooks, because I hate loose papers.  I tolerate drafts in folders,
because I don't have any better answers, but I'd rather have things taped
in.  I have a teenage daughter and have seen the abuse her papers go
through.  I may have them leave their stuff in the room next year, too.

Since this is my first year in middle school, I have more questions than
answers at times.  But you folks are great at offering good advice.

Thanks,
Kim



-- 
Kimberlee Hannan
Department Chair
Sequoia Middle School
Fresno, CA