Classroom structure: Organizing Literature

Know that we are equipped with multiple methods and ways to teach reading, how do we pull it all together? How do we make sure that, as teachers, we are conducting reading activities in an organized, non confusing, instructional way?

First, just as discussed in Classrooms That Work, an efficient teacher has a schedule daily of what her students are doing. Successful teachers also have plans on how they are going to accomplish lessons and activities in class.  "Expert teachers also use a four-part process to scaffold student understanding during small-group guided instruction," according to Nancy Frey and Douglas Fisher. This requires that the teacher be more knowledgable on the subject than the student so that the student may receive proper answers. Thus, in an organized classroom the teacher not only has a plan, but is appropriately equipped with the right answers. (*An example of this can be found to the right.)

Another way to create an organized classroom is to understand that there are many ways one can conduct a reading activity. But a successful teacher would consider his or her's particular class and students. As discussed in Allington's piece, The Schools We Have. The Schools We Need., too many schools practice generic plans of reading rather than thinking of personal ways to help students excel.

In conclusion, while there are many ways to create and organize how you teach reading, a daily schedule and a personal plan will contribute heavily to a successful classroom.

1. What are some things you deem necessary to include in a daily schedule?
2. How do you know how to modify an assignment to student's personal needs?