I used a leveled science reader for my assignment so I am able to use this text very easily in my cross-curriculum lesson plans. I love this set of science readers because each book, on every subject, comes in 3 different levels...below, on and above grade level. I am, therefore, able to expose the content to all of students in a way that is easier for each of them to understand.
My school also uses social studies leveled texts. I find this especially useful when studying important people from the past. I love that everyone gets to learn about the major focal points of each individual but that, depending on levels, are challenged to get deeper in their understanding.
Another thing that I love about my informational library is the comprehension questions at the end of each reader. They are open-ended so I am really able to get a good feel for how each of my children are comprehending and retaining the information that is provided.
I am interested in how you are using these content leveled text. When we think of using leveled text, we think of guided reading. How else are you using these resources?
ReplyDeleteLeveled content readers-what a neat resource! You are lucky! Within your schedule, do you have to teach science and social studies in isolation or can you integrate them within the literacy block? I have relied on integrating them in the past but this year we've had to separate them out in our day and that has been really hard.
ReplyDeleteThe leveled texts sounds great! I'm quite sure that this helps you with planning your lessons. Just a couple of questions: (1) Do you integrate your own questions about the texts or just rely on the comprehension questions from the text? (2) Do you create heterogenous groups and let your students work together? Group work is a great way to help students become engaged and confer about their experiences and ideas of text.
ReplyDeleteI think leveled text is a great idea. Since I haven't taught in a while this is new to me but makes perfect sense.
ReplyDeleteYour comment about open ended questions hits home with me. This is the issue I have with AR. I think a great opportunity to expand student thinking is being missed. At least the kids are reading and that is better than not reading.