Leaning on each other
Learning to “swim” together
I’d heard, but hadn’t understood, that some students learn best through narrative structures … until the day I was trying to guide six off-task eighth grade boys through comprehension of an informational text. With the rest of the students reading in pairs, small groups, or independently, I created a “Learning Table” of the six.
We’d read a chunk, stop and check understanding, read on. After two or three chunks the chatter starts. I’m reading aloud or asking them to silent read and they are having a running conversation… making comments about the graphic aids, off the wall connections – are they even talking about what we’re reading?!
I think I am losing them, get frustrated, and say, “Guys! You’re not listening… we need to read this!” Dominick gently pats my hand, and condescendingly with a cheeky grin states, “Ms. G – we with you; look, we’re on the right page… we’re answering your questions… this is just how we do it – it’s ok.”
As the rest of the group nods in agreement and shake their heads sadly, but tolerantly, at me…
In that moment I realize again how much more I learn from them than they from me.
And Dominick was right. He was learning. After years of scoring Basic on the state’s high-stakes test, he achieved a score of Advanced with that year’s administration. And came back in November with his first high school report card on Honor Roll!