Expository Writing-EDRG 3344

My MGP topic is music, and for this my expository writing I intend on creating a music sheet and notes for 4th graders. I will provide a few musical instruments so that there are options for the students to choose. On the music sheet, I will include the fingering positions for each instrument, along with a chart to show each note. I will allow the students to perform their instrument of choice, and work in groups to assist one another. At the end of 2 wks, I will allow the students to play a piece of music within their group in front of their classmates. I know from personal experience, this type of interaction really enhanced my learning. I believe this type of activity will be enjoyable, exciting, and memorable for the students.

Sea Otter Rescue-By Roland Smith

This book is about the spill in Prince Williams Sound, Alaska that contained 11 gallons of crude oil. This spill contaminated the environment, especially the sea otters. The author includes photographs and progress of the recovery in this devastation. This book contains full-color illustrations and covers many subjects such as science and nature, along with wildlife rescue. This book is recommended for ages 7-10, but I would use it for all ages. I have given a link below with additional information about the author and other books he has written. Hope this is helpful!!

http://www.rolandsmith.com/

Chapter 9-EDRG 3321

This week in class, we had an informative lecture about nonfiction literature. Mrs. Pickett gave some very helpful information about the elements involved in nonfiction literature. Vocabulary, figurative language, and organization are all essential in this type of literature in order for the reader to clearly understand the message. We learned that boys are usually reluctant to reading, but are drawn more to nonfiction literature. Books with eye-catching visuals are helpful because it engages the readers more. Also, we learned when doing a read aloud, we should allow the students to participate in the reading. By allowing the students to be more involved, there will be less of a chance of their attention being distracted. In the classrooms, teachers should use a variety of graphic organizers that will be enjoyable and beneficial for the students. Teachers should give a thorough and clear understanding of this genre, nonfiction. The students should be able to experience writing their own nonfiction literature. I believe that these type of hands-on activites change the learning in today's classrooms. When I think of my school years as a child, I remember that I learned most when I actually had the opportunity to utilize my knowledge through activity. I felt proud of my writing and wanted it to be displayed every time. I believe when a child does any type of writing, nonfiction or not, it enhances their learning.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? By Bill Martin Jr./ Eric Carle

I read this book as a child in elementary, and it really has become one of my favorites. This book is recommended for grades pre-k though 1st. This book shows a variety of animals, each one a different color, and a teacher looking at them. The illustrations are bold, fresh and creative. Below is a the link to the official Eric Carle website. It includes other children's literature he has written and additional information about his life. Hope this can be useful to you!!

http://www.eric-carle.com/

Chapter 8-EDRG 3321

Last week in class we discussed fiction literature. We were able to get into small groups and discuss what we each perceived of fiction. Immediately, one of my first thoughts was Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella. I loved fairy tale books as a child. My mom bought me many of the fairy tale books when I was younger. My sister and I used to love reading them every night. As I got older, my taste in books grew. I became so interested with the Goosebumps books and also Hank the Cowdog. In our groups in class, we drew what we thought fiction was to us. It was amazing to see the different point of views. Some people imagined aliens and robots, others imagined castles and dragons, while some thought of werewolves and vampires. It proved to me that fiction does not cover one type, but many. Fiction can range from contemporary and historical, to fantasy and science fiction. Also in class, we discussed the settings, plot, theme, and characters displayed in fiction books. These parts are all essential in a story. I enjoyed discussing this chapter in a group. It allowed me to hear others ideas, and opinions about fiction literature. It was very useful and I know that it will benefit me in the future.

"Where The Wild Things Are"-by Maurice Sendak

I'm sure many of you are familiar with this book. I read this when I was a child and still have the book today. This book is written by Maurice Sendak and is a classic. If you have not read it, the synopsis of the book is about a young, naughty boy named Max who is sent to bed without his supper. He imagines sailing away to a land of Wild Things. It is in this land, where Max is made king. This book is creative and unique. It is also humorous and enjoyable for all ages. However, it is most recommended for ages 4-8. Below is a website with additional information about this author, along with other links to authors and books. Hope this is helpful!!

http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/Kids/AuthorsAndIllustrators/ContributorDetail.aspx?CId=12708

Chapter 7-Picture Books

This week in class we discussed picture books. There are a variety of picture books that can apply to any type of audience. In the power points, we learned that picture books are a form, not a genre and can vary from poetry to historical fiction. The picture books derive from early man who created their own picture story on the walls of caves. There are also different forms of picture books as well, such as alphabet, concept, pop-up, interactive, wordless, and predictable patterned language. I believe picture books should be large, colorful, easy to read, and very simple in their storyline and structure. Also, picture books should be visually appealing, easily relatable, and creative. I know when I use to read picture books as a child, my imagination had no limits. The illustrations and creativity in the book were so helpful to me as the reader. The power points also stated that there should be considerations for young children. This may include read alouds, content-area learning, independent reading, shared and guided reading, and picture books as they relate to comprehension. This chapter was very helpful and gave me a better understanding of the benefits of picture books in the classroom. I intend on using these books in my class in all areas of study.

What is a narrative?

A narrative is a type of writing that includes poetry, pictures, song, theatre or dance to help describe a sequence of fiction or non-fiction events. A narrative also allows a person to express new ideas and collaboration of experiences from their life. A narrative may include a plot, beginning, middle, end, and may be told in either first-person or third-person. It may also be a story or description of events. An example of a narrative writing is the children's book written by Arnold Lobel, titled "Owl at Home."

"Snow White"

I am sure many of you have either read or watched "Snow White." However, there are several versions of this story. The website below gives additional information about "Snow White," as well traditional literature and offers themes and lesson plans for the classrooms. Also, it offers a quiz and essay test on traditional literature. This is beneficial if you want more insight on this genre. Hope this website is useful to you!!

http://webinstituteforteachers.org/~anitajhill/2003/traditional%20literature.html

EDRG 3321-Chapter 6

This week in class wednesday evening, we discussed Chapter 6 Traditional Literature. Mrs. Pickett stated that she liked the definition of traditional literature that the book gave. I did as well. The book stated that this genre is studied from the perspective of culture. Also, the book stated that culture can refer to an ethnic group, a nationality, or a subgroup within a national border. We also discussed about motifs. Motifs are literary elements that reoccur across many stories which include characters, objects, plot elements, or other aspects which the story originated. In class we watched a video of "Anansi," narrated by Denzel Washington. This story was so interesting. It gave a simple message of how one's determination, despite his/her imperfections, can lead them to the top. This story was originated in West Africa, and in the video Denzel did a great job executing the Jamaican dialect. As a viewer, I was able to relate to the culture of the story. Mrs. Pickett also stated that we should provide a variety of genres in our classrooms. The students should have a wide selection to choose from. If not availabe, she suggested to use the school library. This chapter was very interesting and gave me a better understanding of traditional literature. I am certain that I will use this type of genre in my classroom.

Narrative Story-EDRG 3344

I woke up earlier than usual this particular Friday morning, and remember that is was so cold outside. The night before, I hardly had any sleep. All throughout the night, I tossed and turned trying to get comfortable. I was finally able to get some rest after drinking a warm cup of tea with honey. That Friday morning, I was so anxious to get to school. It was going to be my first solo in the Christmas recital. I had been preparing and working very hard every day in music class. Mrs. Walk, my music teacher, was always so helpful in music class. Every question or concern I had, she was quick to assist and reassure. However, on this day I was going to have to perform solo without her help.

As my mom drove me to the school, I was repeating the notes I had to play on the piano and the solo part I had to sing that evening at the Christmas recital. My mom could see the nervousness in my face, so she offered to go over the song with me right before I got off the car. We sang the first verse and chorus of “O Holy Night”, then we said goodbye and I headed to class. The entire day I could not stop thinking about my solo. During music class, we went over the songs several times to make certain that everyone knew their part. As I was leaving the class, my teacher pulled me aside and told me that I was doing a great job and not to be intimidated on stage. Her words were very much needed at that moment, and gave me encouragement. As soon as the last bell rang for the school day, I rushed outside to meet my ride so that I could get ready for the recital.

I clearly remember what I wore that evening. My mom had bought me a red velvet dress, with a gold bow that tied around the back. She curled my hair and pinned it half-way up with a small bow-like clip. I wore white tights with black, shiny, closed-toed shoes since it was a cold evening. I felt beautiful. We arrived at the school early, since I had to get in line and get ready for the performance. As time drew nearer for the recital to start, my nerves grew as I waited backstage. Finally, it was time to start. The recital was going well, and my solo was coming up. At last, it was my solo. I sat down on the bench behind the piano, adjusted my posture, and tweaked the microphone to reach where I could sing. I began to play, and it was as if something overcame me. I felt like a young bird, soaring through the air on my own. It was amazing. I even recall closing my eyes a few times throughout the piece. When I was done, I looked up and there in the auditorium was a standing ovation for me. I stood up, took a bow, and smiled at everyone. I could even see a small tear in my parent’s eyes. After the recital, many people approached me and gave me nice compliments. I was about to leave, when I saw Mrs. Walk. I ran up to her and gave her a big hug. I thanked her for helping me in music class and for teaching me not to be afraid of my fears. She taught me more than just singing and playing an instrument. She taught me how to believe in myself and that hard work will be rewarded. That is a lesson I will never forget.

"Love to Mama"

This poetry book is about the relationship and bond between mothers and their children, and grandchildren. This book includes poems from a wide selection of latino poets. The colorful and creative illustrations are eye catching and would attract any type of reader. There are many spanish words in this book, but the spanish glossary on the back is very helpful. This book can be used with children eight and older. Here is a webiste with additional information about this book, along with many other links to children's poetry books.

http://childrensbooks.about.com/cs/poetry/fr/lovetomama.htm

EDRG 3321-wed

Chapter 5

This past class meeting, we discussed poetry and how it is useful in the classroom. Personally I have never been fond of poetry, but it is because how it was taught to me at a young age. It was of no interest to me. However, wednesday's class was very insightful and allowed me to view poetry in a different way. Poetry is very beautiful, creative, and artistic. We saw a few videos of Maya Angelou and it was amazing to watch her speak and give her opinion on various issues. Poetry allows one to express their emotion, experiences, and views on anything and everything. Also, when it is used in the classroom, it can be very helpful with children struggling with their reading. There is much repetition and creative words used. Children can practice their reading skills with poetry. There are also many ways to interpret poetry. In the classroom, you can allow students to retell their version, act out in a skit/play, or even create a picture about the poem. This can be enjoyable for all students. In addition, teachers should always encourage their students, and never put barriers up for their future. Maya Angelou stated that we can master every subject. That should be a constant thought in the minds of teachers. We are influences our of student's future. Let us be motivators, encouragers, and supporters.

Memories

This past wednesday in class, we presented our 5 different memories. It was a very interesting activity and allowed me to recall some of my most treasured memories. I also enjoyed listening to the memories that everyone else shared in class. The memory that I am going to focus and elaborate on is my warm memory.

In class, I spoke about when I sang for heart patients at the hospital. It was during the christmas season, and my grandpa was recovering from an operation. My brother and I went to visit him to see how he was doing. I told my brother to take his guitar so that he could play for him. My grandpa loves playing the guitar as well, so I thought it would be a nice gesture for him to listen to my brother play a few of his favorite songs. We talked to him and joked around as usual. After that, I sang a few songs for him. When we finished, my brother and I went to get some coffee in the lobby area. As we walked down the hallway, we noticed some patients that did not have any visitors. They just waved to us as we passed by. I asked my brother if he wanted to play so that I could go sing some christmas carols. We knocked on a few patient's doors and offered to play and sing a few christmas carols. I remember when we walked out of the room, everyone (nurses and receptionists) was standing and clapping for me and my brother. We had no idea that they were listening to us. It was such a great moment. The standing ovation was not what made me feel warm, but it was the smiles from the patients that made it all worth it. Sometimes we tend to forget what loving friends and families we have. Some of those hospital patients had no visitors. It came to my surprise because it was during the christmas holidays. I was just glad that I could bring a smile or encouragement to their life.

"Cheaper by the Dozen"-by Frank B. Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

This book is very action-filled and funny. It is about a story of a family that has a dozen children and all the adventures that take place. Many of you have most likely seen it on film, but I recommend to read it as well. This book can be used with adolescents in middle school or with high school students. Below is a website that gives more information about this book and other books written by these authors. Hope you enjoy!!

http://cheaperbelles.tripod.com/

EDRG 3321-Wed.

This week's class meeting, we discussed chapter 4 about Responding to Literature. We learned that if a child can make a connection with a story, they are able to relate and experience what they are reading more easily. In class, we learned about how everything that surrounds a child allows them to build schemata. This meaning that a child learns from experiences either through family, school, travel and outside influences. If a child does not have much experience from these influences, teachers should be able to build their knowledge in areas they are not familiar with. This reminds me of an experience I had when I was a teacher's assistant during summer school. When tutoring some of the children, I noticed that a few were struggling comphrehending a story the teacher assigned. It was obvious that they were unfamliar with some of the language, characters, and backgrounds that played a part in the story. I had to explain in a way to set up the scene and describe some of the details they overlooked. It can be frustrating for a child who may not have been exposed to certain experiences as their peers.

Also in our power points, it stated that cultural influences have an affect on a reader. It stated that children will respond to their cultural background. We have to understand that children will interpret a story based on their culture. Depending on what hemisphere a child is from, their perspective of a story may differ from a child of another hemisphere of the world. What a child interprets from a story, should not be labeled as wrong or put down. Every reader can interpret a reading differently. In class we did a simple activity which consisted of a story and different interpretations of it. Mrs. Pickett gave us a scenario and then had us mark what we felt was necessary to it. It was a short activity but the purpose of it taught me so much more. It allowed me to understand that children need to be guided in their reading. They feel inferior when a teacher ask their interpretation of a story. This can be intimidating for a child, adolescent, or even an adult. There should be direction in a classroom and teachers should support the active role of a reader. This chapter was very helpful and allowed me to understand the different factors that are involved when responding to literature.

All About Me Book

This past week in class, we learned about personal writing and how we incorporate it in our daily lives. The class gave different examples of personal writing including letters, texts, to-do lists, notes, and emails. Going about our daily routine, we tend to overlook how often we use personal writing. In wednesday's class meeting, we did an "All About Me Book" that allowed us to express ourselves. In my book, i stated that music played a major role in my life. I absolutely love to sing and play music on my alto saxophone. I cannot say that I am a professional, but it is a hobby that I am passionate about. This brings me to a personal writing experience about 3 years ago.

Currently, I am a lead singer for a christian band. You could have asked me many years ago if I would ever stand up in front of a crowd to sing, and I would have said no. However, so much has changed since then. I was going through a time of my life where I needed encouragement. Some of you can agree that you have needed some uplifting words from time to time. Well, I was helping at my church with the music and singing and I was debating if I should take the position of lead singer with this band. I felt I was inadequate and could not fulfill this responsibility. I became my worst enemy. I was ready to turn down this position, when I came across a small note that was left in my bible. To my surprise, it was a note that was written by my younger sister (who is also my best friend). It was short and simple, but made a world of difference. It simply stated, "You're a strong girl. Don't let anything or anyone stop you." It was at that moment that my self-esteem was lifted and I knew that I was meant for this position. My doubt left, and a new hope was created. I will never forget that small note my sister left. Sometimes we can be our own worst critic, but there are loving people around us who see great potential in us and will not allow us to fail. This note will always be memorable, and I hope that it can be an inspiration to you as it was for me.

"The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn

Here is another book I believe would be useful for preschool-2nd grade level. My mom introduced this book to me about a month ago. She is a librarian and always tells me about new exciting books for children. This book is entitled "The Kissing Hand" and is simply about the anxieties a child may have before starting school. Some of you may have children, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren who have separation issues. This book is really cute and I hope that you would use it in your classrooms or at home. This site includes activites and ideas that are useful followed by the reading. Here is the link below:

http://www.thevirtualvine.com/TheKissingHand.html

EDRG 3321-Chapter 3

This week in class we learned about comprehension, vocabulary and discussion. We learned how each of these steps are vital in the learning process. Comprehension is the process of understanding and it is very important for a child to comprehend what they are reading. A child lacks comprehension when they are unable to gain meaning from print (their reading). Frank Smith stated that comprehension process is an interaction between visual information and non-visual information. This makes sense because as a child I can recall that I had some difficulty understanding what I was reading, especially math problems. I could not understand what the reading problem was asking. It would take me awhile to fully understand what exactly I needed to do to get my answer. It can be frustrating for a child because they want to understand what everybody else does. We also learned the difference of efferent and aesthetic reading. Aesthetic reading is when a person reads for fun and efferent is when a person reads to gain important knowledge. In Chapter 3, we also learned about vocabulary and it's importance in reading. When a child reads, it is enlarging their vocabulary and word knowledge. Teachers should continue to learn what vocabulary a child knows and what they need to know. Also, teachers should be able to remediate any words or concepts a child may be having difficulty with. This can be accomplished with dramatizing the story. For example, a teacher can use students to act out a story, use props, or puppets. This will allow a student to understand a story better. All students are different and will learn and comprehend a story in their own way. It is important to accomodate each learning style, whether it is visual, auditory or kinesthetic. In this chapter, we also learned about discussions held in a classroom. This meaning that a good discussion is led by the students. The teacher is the facilitator. The chapter explains that a true discussion enables multiple people to talk, to share opinions, to raise questions, and to seek the perceptions of others. These discussions play an important role in the comprehension for students. I completely agree with what the book states. I know that as a child and adult, it helps me understand more clearly when I discuss with others about a reading. I also agree that discussions should be led by students. This allows the teacher to observe what the students understood from a story. Some students may receive a different interpretation than others, but I believe it is useful to hear the ideas of peers. Chapter 3 covered some very important points that are necessary in a classroom. I know that learning these facts will improve my teaching style in the future and will be of use in other areas of my life as well.

"If I won..."

If I won a million dollars, I would be very generous and use it wisely. Of course I would want to spend on myself, but think my conscience would get the best of me. I would first give a portion to my immediate family. This would include my parents and 3 siblings. I would then pay off any debt that may have accumulated over these years. Next, I would give an amount to my church back home since I am so involved in it. Also, I would help out any of my closest friends or extended family members who I feel needed it the most. Then, I would go shopping..but not overdoing it. I would save the rest for any future expense. I feel it is wise to save your money and although I would have a vast amount, I would try to let it accumulate. I do not believe money makes a person genuinely happy, but it would help during these days in our economy.

Writing Is A Process

This week in class we learned that writing is a PROCESS. I knew about most of the steps that writing entails, but did not execute to the best of my ability. It was refreshing to hear about the process of writing. I know that this will be very useful in any type of writing I do in the future.

The first step that is necessary in this process is prewriting: this is when you organize your thoughts and ideas for a paper.
The second step is drafting: this is considered a "sloppy copy" or rough draft. You would be applying your thoughts and ideas on to a paper, computer, journal or even a blog.
The third step is revising: this is when the writer can change, add, or delete sentences on their paper. Another way of revision would be a writer's conference or to get into groups and revise one another's papers.
The fourth step is editing: this is when the writer proofreads spelling, capitalization or punctuation. Groups and partners would also be useful in this step.
The fifth step is to publish: in this case, you would display your writing or even give it to someone for a good cause.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle-by Beverly Cleary

Here is a great website to check out this book along with many others by Beverly Cleary, http://www.beverlycleary.com/index.html

I personally enjoy reading "The Mouse and the Motorcycle" because it is about a reckless mouse who discovers the joy of riding a motorcycle and makes friends with a boy. This books has a lot of action and is good to use for children between the ages of 8-10. The website above also lists other familiar books such as "Ramona the Pest" and "Ramona the Brave." Hope the website is useful for you all.

EDRG 3321-Wed.

This past week in class we discussed Chapter 1 and 2 and learned about how we should make reading fun and understand that there are many cultures in a classroom. Because the reading interest declines in teenagers, teachers should instill a good reading habit in children and make it enjoyable at a young age. In Chapter 1, it discusses what teachers teach and believe has a long-term effect on a child. Teachers should believe that every child can learn, despite any learning disability. The chapter states that teacher's should use strategic and explicit training. Also, teachers should stay current with children's literature. The classroom should be surrounded with children's literature and not solely textbooks. Every child should have a selection of books to choose from. Allowing a child to choose what they like can encourage them to read, rather than assigning a book.

In Chapter 2, it covers the culture brought into a classroom. There are instances of mismatched cultures in a classroom. This meaning that not all children's cultures match the school culture. This can affect a child in a negative way. A child may feel inadequate in their work and not able to relate to other children in the classroom. It is important to accomodate each child in a classroom. Teachers should meet the needs of all learners. Although some students may come with disabilities, they should not be treated differently than students with other cultures. This is when the role of an educator should take place. An educator should guide each student and their work. I believe that a teacher should maintain patience, along with a positive attitude. There should be nothing but encouraging and uplifting words with students who show struggle. It would only make a child feel less adequate if they were spoken negatively to.

These chapters taught me that teachers have a very important role and effect in a child's life. We can make a tremendous difference simply with our words and care. There will be times that we have students who are struggling or have a negative attitude in their schoolwork, but we can change and help improve their outlook. We must constantly keep in mind that what we are doing presently will affect a student's future in some way. I would hope that my teaching would play a positive role in some child's life.

Blog #2-Circular Story

This week in class we learned about circular stories and why they are beneficial to use in the classroom. A circular story is when a series of events occur from the beginnning and end the same in a story. It follows a "rouind" pattern.

Circular stories are useful in a classroom since it allows students to predict and discuss repetition. This strategy is beneficial when students are learning about sequencing skills. The students become confident when they become familiar with repetition in a story. Eventually, a student is able to understand what they are reading and will become more independent in their reading.

Because reading may not seem as interesting as other activities for students, there are ways to make it fun and appealing. Since many children enjoy watching new exciting movies, you can encourage a child to read the book first before watching the movie about it. If you need help while you are cooking in the kitchen, you may ask a child to read the recipe aloud. Or, you may ask a child to create a menu for dinner and ask the child to use describing words. There are many ways to make reading fun. Every child is different so there should be creativity in their options. Ask the child to make up their own story about their family or friends and allow them to use personal photos. The child should be excited about reading and know that there are many ways of doing so.

Blog 1

This week in my EDRG class, we learned about extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. Since I was in elementary, I clearly recall being a student who was affected by intrinsic motivation. Unlike extrinsic motivation, I appreciated the compliments and warm smiles from my teacher. As long as my teacher showed care and concern for my work, I was motivated to continue doing well in every subject. Some of my friends needed some type of reward or external source to help keep them motivated. In this case, extrinsic motivation would be necessary to positively affect a student and their work.

Also, this week in class we completed a mutilple intelligence survey. Howard Gardner developed this test, in which he sought it to be used as a theory. This entailed a variety of statements that each person would either agree or disagree to describe themselves. There were several sections that covered a variety of strengths that an individual may attain. I concluded, after completing the m.i test, that I learn best musically. My musical strength had the highest accuracy in this test. Next, was interpersonal which shows that I work best with others and seem to be a "team player."

Learning about extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, and the multiple intelligence survey allowed me to realize that every student is going to have a different need. Myself as a teacher, I am going to have to use various teaching methods so that each student comprehends each lesson. These terms will be useful in my teaching career.