Tip #113 from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents (McKinley, Trombly) - Reading Response Journal

 


Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly.


                                                                   #113

The Reading Response Journal

 

Look, then, into thine heart, and write!

~ Henry W. Longfellow.

 

When your child has spent time reading about something and learned a little or a lot, then what? Of course, she does not always have to do something after she reads, but doing something after reading is a great way to Recite or Review (Idea #99 and #100), thus increasing comprehension. It is also a great way to share (or show off) what she’s learned.

One way to do this on her own and for herself is to keep a Reading Response Journal. All she really needs is a notebook. (One she picks out herself may get used more often!) Whenever she reads a new book, you can encourage her to write in her journal what the book was called and what she learned. Young kids can start off with a picture and maybe a sentence. (Feel free to take dictation for a very young child.) Older kids could write a few sentences. Upper elementary kids can be challenged to write a paragraph, complete with a topic sentence and several details (Idea #161).

This journal can be just for her, to keep track of the books she’s read (How fun to see the list grow!) or to be shared with you or anyone she wants. In Chapters 5 and 6, you might also find other ways to write more creatively about what she’s learned if summaries get boring. The idea is to do something with the information after she’s read it. It helps with comprehension and gives her a sense of accomplishment as well.

 

See our workbook at www.365TeacherSecrets.com for a sample reading response journal.

   


     Cindy McKinley Alder                                            Patti Trombly

 

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