Make Time For it! - Application Really Works!

Our school is in our 2nd year of the new balanced schedule, so we have 2 weeks - fall and early spring that we stop and do remediation with students that are falling behind, or neat extra help to get them back on pace.  (By the way, I love the new balanced calendar).

 As I worked with a small group of 1st and 2nd graders throughout that week, I realized more and more that application really works! You are probably saying, "What do you mean?".  What I mean is giving them time to apply skills that you have taught really, really works!  I know, I know...you do not have enough time, but my argument is that you must take the time!  If you do not take the time to allow them to apply their skills (practice), how do you know if they get what you are teaching?  I was amazed as I worked with my groups of students, how well they did on applying their skills.  I would review skills that had been taught in their classrooms daily, and then I would have countless activities for them to practice & practice some more on.  They had so much fun, and I did also!!  We worked & worked that week and the kids loved the interactive work, and games that we did together. It was really easy for me to observe them and know who and who didn't understand.  Then, I was able to offer more help to those that really did not get it.

Remember - Practice Makes Perfect, and you cannot be a good reader, apply phonics,comprehension or writing skills if you never have the time to practice those skills!  Step back & allow your students that time to practice what you are so diligently teaching them. You will be amazed!!!