Comment

Comment by Christine Calabrese on November 27, 2012 at 2:25pm

Hello, 

        I have used many programs, LindaMood Bell's Visualizing and Verbalizing, IdeaWorks, Wilson - Fundations, Open Court & Seeing Stars. I have however, had speedy success with WINNING and Sing, Spell, Read & Write. Has anyone here ever used this two programs? Thanks, Christine, Reading Specialist, NYC DOE

Comment by Rick Baumann on September 22, 2012 at 1:35pm

Hi all,  I am an English teacher and have found that more of my time has to be devoted to the teaching of reading rather than the teaching of literature.  It has been a BIG shift!  I am now teaching 8th grade AIS in classes of 15 and 20.  They meet every other day.  That said, I feel I must figure out the individual reading skill issues and target instruction based on the need.  Unfortunately, all I have is the ELA score.  Does ANYONE know of a good computer-based diagnostic for skills appropriate for 8th graders?  Now don't laugh; do you know of a free one???  Actually, I will love any suggestion- free or cost based.

Comment by Kathleen Shanahan on March 25, 2012 at 4:39pm

This research makes sense.  We all need more such studies that can dispute the "healing benefits of intensity" found in text complexity.  A great leap beyond what a child is presently achieving can only be a reality if the basics/gaps have been 

supported...and that requires the data gleaned from assessments and diagnoses and the instruction targeted to the need.

Comment by Dr. Lynnda M. Nadien on March 25, 2012 at 2:08pm

After presenting at the Reading Recovery National Conference in Columbus, Ohio this past February, the one piece of research that is so important to remember is that 'text complexity' will not necessarily improve student achievement outcomes. The only sure fire method is to provide outstanding planning and instructional delivery that is developed using student data and proper assessments and diagnoses.

Comment by Kathleen Shanahan on February 1, 2011 at 7:21pm

We in Islip use READ180 in 5th grade, and middle school.  We are looking at obtaining System 44 for our weaker students.  I am familiar w how its used in fifth grade AIS.Those students who achieve a lexile score on the placement test are instructed in READ180 for our AIS population. This population usually consists of those students who fall in the lower level two or mid level 2.  The middle school books a double period which allows time for an intro and concluding mini-lesson.  In the elementary, we use a 60 minute block....twenty minutes in each rotation.  Agreeing with Kathleen Ambrose that consistency is important and routine for independent reading with accountability.  Generating reports of computer usage is also important to ensure efficient use of computer time.  We like the structure of the book that is used for instruction.  Success has been noted with ESL population but not with self-contained special ed.

Comment by Kathleen Ambrose on February 1, 2011 at 12:49pm

Hi Maureen-- I do like Read 180 and we have seen some progress with it.  However, my biggest challenge is in trying to implement it the way it is intended with a block period schedule.  If you have block periods, I think you will be very happy with it-- the confines of a regular 40 minute class period make it difficult to reach all components but it is not impossible. Just not optimal.  Also, I find my students are most successful when they are consistent and true to the program.  I am looking forward to a System 44 training this month, hopefully to help some of our weaker readers. 

Comment by Maureen Judge on February 1, 2011 at 11:31am

Hi! I agree with you Christine! My name is Maureen and I work with middle school students, and sometimes high school students,  in the Jericho School District. I'm looking forward to learning and sharing ideas with all of you! How do you like the READ 180 Kathleen? We were just told we are getting it here!

Comment by Sue Kenny on January 27, 2011 at 12:43pm

Christina- Testing Fundamentals is excellent. It offers an avenue, other than typical test prep materials, to prepare students for the ELA assessment. Using authentic literature engages students and teaches them how to access different types of texts by modeling.

Comment by Christina Boughal on January 26, 2011 at 9:07am

Hello.  I am a reading teacher working in the Smithtown Central School District.  I teach at an elementary school.  I am thinking of giving testing fundamentals a try this year.  Has anyone tried it?  I usually make up my own material based on student errors and patterns I notice. 

Comment by Kathleen Ambrose on January 26, 2011 at 8:40am

Hello from Hampton Bays NY!!  I work with the Middle School population in our district.  I am using mostly READ 180 with my classes and one group of wilson.  I am excited to speak with others about what is working in your classrooms.  I am also a member of the Mosaic ListServ for Reading teachers.  Have a super day! Best, Kath Ambrose

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