Reflection Is Key

After working with these students over the past couple weeks I have tweaked my ideas and taken a whole new spin on the project! Instead of focusing on ALL aspects of the writing process, I decided to narrow it down and focus on three aspects. These aspects include: idea generation, organization, and summarizing. I noticed that my students were having difficulties getting their ideas straight while trying to summarize their book reviews. I have created an inquiry for this project. My question is: How does the creation and sharing of digital booktalks by high-acheiving second graders influence their writing in terms of idea generation, organization, and summarizing?

I have created a many documents that have helped them in this process. First of all, I have created a data table where they include information about their book. This is a table with places for them to write the plot, genre, characters, opinion, problem, etc. They then are able to write their booktalk. I used this information to guide them in the right direction. After they write their book review, I have them record it. After they record it, they will listen to it and self-critique themselves using a rubric. They loved this and were so honest with themselves. I was very proud and continually see them moving forward in the process. After they critique themselves they set goals for the next time! I personally believe that self-critiquing and setting goals is so important in the learning process.