On Display

Being observed by teachers from other schools is a compliment, a pain, and a kick in the butt. It's validating as a teacher to have others come to see what we are doing. At the same time, it's a bit of a hassle to have others in our room frequently. The kids are fairly used to it, but it throws them off a little. It also means we deviate from our normal plans sometimes to be sure our guests are seeing the components of reading and writing workshop that are important to them. It's also motivating. I can't slack off on teaching when others are there. I've got to have each piece of the workshop thought out and organized. I'll do a focus lesson, reading conferences, a guided reading group, and share - mostly because people are coming to see it.

My problem is guided reading. It used to feel great, now it feels stale, boring, and tedious. The kids still seem to enjoy it, but I can't get motivated. Maybe it's because these kids are strong readers, they don't need a lot of support from me. Maybe it's because I've been doing it for a while and I need new energy for it. Maybe it's just because I'm tired and it's the last straw. For whatever reason it isn't working for me.