I finally took a dive into the book and I must say that it was a good read. Debbie Diller discusses what are literacy work stations and how effective they can be in the classroom when implemented correctly. She shares with readers different types of low maintenance literacy work stations.
Each chapter opens with a vignette of a classroom implementing a specific station followed by the benefits of the station, how to set it up and how to differentiate for your learners at each station. She even gives tips on how to tackle or avoid situations before they arise. Each chapter allowed me to visualize what each station could look like in my classroom. It also allowed me to begin looking at the different learners in my class and how each station would benefit each learner.
A Few Takeaways from My Reading:
- "Blessing of the Books"- Several times a week pick up a book and tell scholars just enough about the book to get them interested in reading it themselves.
- The more you pay attention to high quality writing, the more likely students will increase their writing power.
- Move away from writing prompts. Allow the writing to be authentic & relevant.
- When creating literacy work stations, ensure that they are practical, relates to the real world and connects to current teachings.
If you are looking for ways to either improve, enhance or start literacy stations in your upper elementary classroom then this book is for you. Check it out and let me know what you think. Happy Reading!
