Literacy Beginnings - Chapter 22: Observing reading behaviors in
preschool We are nearing the end of our book study of "Literacy
Beginnings" (Fountas & Pinnell). I have enjoyed all the ideas
that I've gathered from the book and other bloggers in the Blog
Party. We are now at the part of the book that talks about how
to assess literacy learning in preschoolers. Now maybe that
doesn't sound as exciting as some of the other chapters ... but
it was interesting to me, in that this section gives some clear,
concrete ways to observe and document reading and writing
behaviors. In the words of the authors, this chapter discusses
ways to "guide your observations". And anything that can help
teachers best utilize their time and talents when assessing
children is worthwhile, and yes .. a little exciting! The best
way to assess a child's understanding of basically, anything, is
to simply watch them play or work. Take time to interact with
them as they play - talk and listen to what they tell you.
Teachers do this on a dai