One of the things I have struggled with for much of my teaching career has been the dreaded reading log. If you read
this post (which was one of my first, so you probably didn't ;) ) you know that I just couldn't take the "Mom, sign this" type logs. My kids weren't reading. They weren't practicing their skill. They weren't responding. They weren't doing much of anything other than wasting paper. So, many years ago I decided to make a change....and my
Reading Log for Thinking and Responding was born.
It has been going along just splendidly, but I thought that this year, since I am getting more into the inferring and indepth thinking about reading (as evidenced through all of the Core Lit stuff I am doing...and LOVING!) I would add a few more sections to get the kids digging even deeper into their reading.
First, I added a "making inference" section. The kids need to make an inference but then, and here is my favorite part, they need to prove it with evidence from the story and with their own schema. I am really, really liking how this section is going in my room. It just seems to get them reading the text a bit more closely because they *know* they will have to use it to respond.
Another new addition is a "Character Sketch" area. The kids need to draw a picture of one of the characters and, again, here is my favorite part, they need to describe it using evidence from the story. Picking out the direct quotes is tricky, but they are getting better at it. It is really helping them to have this extra practice at home. I can see it improving in class and on their Reading Logs...so I think that it just might be sinking in!
I have also been using the logs in class a bit more this year. Since the students are only using 4 of the 5 sections each night, I have been asking them to use one to respond to our in class discussions and reading. They usually do this with a partner, and again, it is helping to sink the concepts in.
So there you have it. I just wanted to share some of my new additions to the
Reading Log that I think have been successful. Have you had a reading log success as of late? I would love to hear about it!
Another new addition is a "Character Sketch" area. The kids need to draw a picture of one of the characters and, again, here is my favorite part, they need to describe it using evidence from the story. Picking out the direct quotes is tricky, but they are getting better at it. It is really helping them to have this extra practice at home. I can see it improving in class and on their Reading Logs...so I think that it just might be sinking in! 
Posts
Not sure where I was when you first posted about this but LOVE this post. We just started reading response letters after Christmas break. I like them...it was a change to what they were doing BUT I like yours more:))) I have struggled in this area too because some kids do a great job and some I can tell (if it's their homework) are blowing me off...worse than that, they are blowing off their reading:/ Gonna have to dig deeper into those and do some planning to incorporate them:) Thanks for sharing:)
ReplyDeleteDon't worry about missing the first post. It was literally like my second blog post ever ;) I am glad you are liking this one. It has been SUCH a headache saver for me!
DeleteTOLD you that you were going to love including more core lit!!! And, oh HOW I wish my students completed homework like yours!! LOVE the horse pic - beautiful!
ReplyDeleteMy kids really are good about completing their homework (with the exception of 2....) I am very grateful for that, as I see homework as SO valuable to my instruction. (I know there are differing opinions on it out there)
DeleteAnd core lit = awesomeness
Oh the drreaded reading log is such a pain! I am totally with you as a teacher and a parent that their should be a better way....and it looks like you've foudn it! I am pinning this for later (just in case I go back to teaching reading again) :) Plus...I'm sharing it with my team. My students will benefit!!!
ReplyDeleteMy most recent reading log success was actually taking my reading logs and giving them a digital makeover. We're giving reading BLOGS a whirl right now and I am loving the new format. It is awesome for two reasons. The children are writing for an authentic audience other than just me, and the sense of community that comes from being able to comment on each other's posts is powerful. If you want to read about our endeavors, check out my post at http://new-in-room-202.blogspot.com/2013/02/from-reading-logs-to-reading-blogs.html. Thanks for sharing, Stacy @ new-inroom-202.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteI have to tell you, I hate reading logs but they are "required" in our school. After playing around with different ideas, I found your reading logs and I purchased it. WOW! What a difference they are making... I teach the strategy, they do the strategy in class, using your templates as a guide. Then for homework, they practice, and practice, and practice! I've been doing this since we returned in January and it has made a huge difference in the quality of the responses! Thank you for helping me and helping my students!
ReplyDeleteI own your response log, but wondered if your additions were available anywhere?? Also, can you tell me more about the Cor Lit?
ReplyDeleteHi! I'm your newest follower. I found your blog on TBA linky parties and am so glad I did! I'm new to teaching 5th grade and think your posts are going to be very helpful for me. Thank you for sharing with us. :)
ReplyDelete~Amanda
Elementary Teacher Files
I do something SOOO similar to this! I will post about it next week and we can compare. I would love to get your feedback.
ReplyDeleteTina
Crofts' Classroom