About a three years ago I got to observe (and videotape) Dr. Jan Richardson from DC doing in-service training for teachers at Battle and Brown Academy. She is an example of the very definition of a star competency, particularly assessment in how she works with kids and teachers to accurately assess learning accomplishments and gaps in reading and writing. We created a set of DVDs for teachers at these schools to teach strategies for teaching reading and writing, all of which accurately reflect the RTI model which I've been making another video about for TN DOE. As far as assessment, what I noticed most was the quick and accurate assessment of learner levels, differentaited instruction targeted at proficiencies and deficiencies, and quick prescription for DI. Also, there is no one correct learninig strategy, but a good RTI instructor must be able to read the learner and then apply the right mix of strategies. "Mix and fix" - kids put the words or letters together in the way that makes sense...
Leveled Reading Stategies
Students should use meaning and structure to predict and self -monitor at every level. Attention to visual information should increase and change over time as students develop visual analysis skills, and fluency should gradually improve as students develop automaticity with sight vocabulary and decoding skills. The following is a partial listing of common behaviors, strategies and skills for each level. It should not be used as a checklist for students but as a guide to help teachers plan appropriate word work activities. In addition to accuracy, consider independence, fluency, language proficiency, and comprehension when making acceleration decisions. Posted by cmwillis at May 19, 2007 10:50 AM | TrackBack