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Tuesday, November 8, 2011

A Great Moment in Conferring

I went to school feeling sick today, and didn't have a whole lot of energy. I started my morning with reading workshop, and the most amazing thing happened. While conferring with a student who struggles with his reading identity, he said the following to me (I am quoting as much as possible, but there may be a paraphrase here or there):

"Mrs. T, I started reading the 39 Clues series today."

I asked him why.

"I've been watching Luke read the series and he has inspired me." (inspired was definitely his word, not mine!!)

I inquired again about why he was inspired.

"When he reads this series, he gets so into the book, he forgets that all the rest of the class is in the room. I want to know what that feels like."

OMG!! I don't know what brought more goosebumps:
  • the fact that as a reader who struggles to find good choices for himself, he observed a classmate and wanted that same feeling as a reader
  • his language about the entire thing
  • the fact that his classmate is so immersed in his book, he is inspiring all those around him
I think it's a combination of all three things. It was truly a great moment in conferring!!

4 comments:

  1. It's really nice that you've captured this moment in your writing-might inspire you too when you need a little boost. Have you read The Reading Zone by Nancie Atwell? That's the feeling!

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  2. Wonderful! Oh, that's a great feeling! It makes me so happy for you and your students.

    Joy,
    Noreen

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  3. That is exactly what makes teaching worth every single moment spent...those little moments when your students discover something amazing, and enlightening! Wow! Thanks for sharing it with us.

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  4. Karen,
    I just love moments like that. I think his statement is a great reminder of the power of Reader's Workshop ---- peers. I wonder how many readers are "inspired" by their peers.

    Cathy

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