How to Read a Unit of Study

As we begin launching Reader's Workshop with Lucy Calkins- I wanted to share a few "tips" on how to read the Units of Study. It can look daunting at first- but hopefully one of these tips will be helpful as you plan your workshop.

Tip 1: Don't think of it as a script. The units are written as a GUIDE, a suggestion for how the unit might go. It is a springboard - use your own examples, stories, connections, and ideas.

Tip 2: Think long-term. Remember you have to go slow to go fast. Maybe year 1, focus on paying close attention to the mini-lessons, Year 2 focus on the coaching notes in the sidebars, and Year 3 dive into the suggestions for conferring and small group work, and the charts in the second half of the "If..Then.." resource.

Tip 3: Read each mini lesson this year. Take notes. Write all over your book. Take each component, and think "What am I doing here?". Jot it down on a large sticky note. Do the same for the Teaching Point, Teach, Active Engagement, Link, Mid-workshop, and Share (They gave us the LARGE sticky notes at the home grown institute, and I LOVE them. I would be happy to put in a PO in for them for you. Just let me know.) Having ONE sticky note with bullet points of notes of the session will help you not feel so overwhelmed by reading straight from the book, and is more authentic and tailored to your teaching style. I created this sticky note in under 10 minutes. Try it! :)

*Also, it would be helpful to laminate the anchor chart sticky notes- so you can use them again (they are not very sticky to begin with)

Tip 4: Jigsaw the Units. Divide up the units of the study with your team. Be an expert in one unit and "teach" your team all about the unit. Use your Fedex time or a team time to read the units. Next year, take a new unit- that way you'll become an expert in all the units.

Tip 5: Reach out to your Instructional Coach :) But really, I would love to read one of your units for your team and be an expert on it- if you choose to do that with your team. Or if you just want to partner up planning out your sessions or co-teach it together. Anything at all, I would love to work with you all!! Please invite me!

Hope at least one of these tips helps!