Updated Check-in for The Daily Five

Since all K-5 teachers will begin "Read to Self" this week, I wanted to let you know about "The Sisters" updated check-in procedures.  In the past students have placed their thumbs in either the up or sideways position in front of their hearts to let the teacher know how they thought they did after completing of the components of "The Daily Five."

The Sisters have now implemented a 1-4 point check-in system they learned in Carlene Bickford's classroom in Waterville, Maine.  According to the revised version of "The Daily Five," the standard is as follows:

"1.  Below Standard
 2.  Approaching Standard
 3.  Meeting Standard
 4.  Exceeding Standard."

Students need to be trained to understand what is meant by each number as they are taught to reflect on their behaviors during the various parts of "The Daily Five."  Students are directed to put their hand in front of their heart with the appropriate number of fingers up as they consider how they did during a particular session.  The teacher poses a question about each expectation (example:  "How did you do with Stay in One Spot?") and the students put up the number of fingers that correspond with their success with that particular area.  Each expectation is treated in the same manner with the students taking time to reflect upon their progress and then put the correct number of fingers in front of their hearts.

The last step is what I consider to be a great improvement over the last system.  After they have scored themselves in all the questions the teacher has asked them to reflect, students think about a goal for the next round with someone who is sitting near them.  Sometimes "the students will share in the whole group, write their goals in a journal, or simply make an internal goal."  A goal might simply be saying that they will get started right away or read the whole time.  I hope you will like the new system as much as I do.  I think this procedure will really make students more accountable for the time they are spending reading, writing, or working on their words.  Give it a try and let me know what you think.

As I continue to read the revised version of the book, I will share with you some of the ideas that "The Sisters" have changed.  I hope all of you will consider following my blog.  I will try to have something each week that will be helpful to you in your classrooms.  Have a great first-day!!