The introductory videos to the strategies helped me to understand the basics of the SIM. The idea of critical proficiency in order to be a literate individual was something I agreed with. That mastery of the fundamental skills would lead to sentence fluency which would lead to good writing was a logical progression. I see the value of investing the time, effort and energy at the sentence level. Writing is a process AND a product. Starting with the simple sentences is the beginning of the process.
As I went through the modules, I could see the 3 design elements embedded in the lessons: scaffolded approach, instructional sequence, and leading the students through the cognitive process. This design was elaborated further. To best promote mastery of the content, content enhancement routines are used in each of the 11 lessons. Planning and leading, increase performance, explaining text, topic and details, teaching concepts, and higher order thinking and reasoning.
I did the pretest with my class. Oh goodness. I was surprised at the amount of instruction and practice that we will need. I was so excited to start. I have not done the written contract - I am planning on doing that next week. But I did start Lesson 1. Initially, I thought we would do a lesson a day. No. I watched the videos and thought a lesson a week. Then I pre-tested my kids and tried lesson 1 - I think we will quickly break into ability groupings. But I can see how every student can improve and grow to mastery writing a simple sentence.
The one little statement on page 8 was the BEST take away - the 3 statement rule. The day I read that, was the day I implemented it. Engagement is up. If I learn nothing more, that was worth the time! But, I've already learned so much more!
As I went through the modules, I could see the 3 design elements embedded in the lessons: scaffolded approach, instructional sequence, and leading the students through the cognitive process. This design was elaborated further. To best promote mastery of the content, content enhancement routines are used in each of the 11 lessons. Planning and leading, increase performance, explaining text, topic and details, teaching concepts, and higher order thinking and reasoning.
I did the pretest with my class. Oh goodness. I was surprised at the amount of instruction and practice that we will need. I was so excited to start. I have not done the written contract - I am planning on doing that next week. But I did start Lesson 1. Initially, I thought we would do a lesson a day. No. I watched the videos and thought a lesson a week. Then I pre-tested my kids and tried lesson 1 - I think we will quickly break into ability groupings. But I can see how every student can improve and grow to mastery writing a simple sentence.
The one little statement on page 8 was the BEST take away - the 3 statement rule. The day I read that, was the day I implemented it. Engagement is up. If I learn nothing more, that was worth the time! But, I've already learned so much more!