Guided Reading Lessons

This past monday we were introduced to Guided Reading Lessons. Watching Dr. Koppenhaver teach us his guided reading lesson opened me up to so many possibilities. In elementary school, I remember my teachers giving guided reading lessons that were boring, vague, and lacked variety. We would simply read the story, and answer the questions to make sure we comprehended the story. To me, this wasn't a guided reading lesson, but a test. Looking back on these experiences, I have come to realize why my interest in reading decreased dramatically throughout my school career. Before Dr. Koppenhaver introduced us to his lesson, I could only assume that all guided reading lessons were like this. After watching his lesson, I was so motivated to take what I had learned from his lesson, and be able to use it in one of my own. The idea of integrating different subject areas into one lesson fascinates me. In Dr. Koppenhaver's lesson, he incorporated several subject areas: the five senses, disabilities, music, and even architecture. Before we even knew what we were going to read, Dr. Dave provided us with a review of these subject areas. It is important to have a review prior to reading the story to find out what your students know and don't know. Without some kind of review, many students will not be able to comprehend the story. A review of background information also allows students to create mental images in their heads while the story is being read. All of these different subject areas that Dr. Dave introduced to us came from the book, Apt 3. As a teacher, it is going to be so important for me to choose good, quality books for my students. A great book can lead to a successful lesson. As a teacher, I want to choose books, and create lessons that will have great influence on my students. I want them to believe that reading is not a burden, (the way I did) but that it can be a fun, and enjoyable learning experience. Through integrated lessons like Dr. Koppenhaver's, I believe that I will be able to cover a lot more material, that will be effective, and enjoyable for the learner.