Thursday, 24 April 2014

Literacy in the 34 neighbourhoods

Writing

Persuasive text, connected to our Inquiry into change, has been a literacy focus through term One and is continuing. This has involved the children in researching the following opinion prompts:

"Which animal is the best survivor?"

"Smartphones are the best."

"The suburb of Carlton used to be better."

"Bacteria is bad"

The children have each used their research findings to write an argument in support of their opinion. Throughout the process the children continue to be supported to use the features and structure of a persuasive text.

Each week the children have a personalised writing goal to focus on.


Research (Reading and Writing)

Students have been challenged to research the above questions and statements by locating key information, including videos and written texts, to further their understandings. There has been much discussion around effective researching strategies and text evaluation.

The research skills we have been working through are:
·        Developing appropriate questions.
·        Using a range of resources (books, websites, interviewing, video).
·        Identifying key information.
·        Note taking.

Research is embedded in our inquiry approach and the children receive ongoing support with developing the necessary understandings and skills.


Reading

In addition to the reading of texts in both print and digital formats during research workshops, the children also participate in small group targeted sessions. The main emphasis of these guided reading sessions is developing reading fluency and comprehension. Serial Reading and Book Talk focus on literature appreciation.


We are most grateful to the many parents who lead a Book Talk group. Your support is invaluable. Book Talk is continuing in term two – please let us know if you would like to be involved.


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