A few years back, I taught at an alternative school (for behaviors). It was so very difficult at times, but extremely rewarding. I truly enjoyed working with my students and I miss them.
Most had horrific home lives that could turn anyone’s stomach. And it was hard to not dwell on it outside of school hours when I was safe at home in a cozy, warm house with my two well-fed boys. And that’s why when I was there with them for the few hours I had them, I gave them everything I had. I just wanted them to know that they mattered and that they were beautiful and smart in so many ways.
Many days it felt like an uphill battle but I hope that I made some kind of positive impact on their lives and not just academically.
Several came to me either as non-readers or just barely reading and that’s difficult for an upper elementary boy (or girl) to admit. Sometimes it seemed easier to disrupt than to admit they didn’t understand. Many had experienced very little success and were starved in more ways than one. One of my many goals was to build their confidence.
A friend introduced me to fry words/phrases. Those partnered with repeated readings, I was able to see great gains in many of my students. And as soon as the students started seeing these gains too, they actually started trying harder and slowly believing in themselves.
I’m always trying to find resources for teachers that are quick and “easy”. I know how hard it is in the classroom to address the needs of 20+ students. Since I’ve seen the positive results of using Fry words/phrases, I thought the idea of having the words/phrases on bookmarks might just qualify as quick and “easy”.
Many reluctant readers feel discouraged when presented with a passage/book but a bookmark’s not so scary. And I thought there were so many possibilities of how to actually incorporate them into the classroom. Homework. Partner/buddy reading in class. Independent reading. Small group. Teachers can stamp, sticker, initial, hole-punch, etc. as they become fluent in each section. Students can track their progress through the words/phrases. Many possibilities but all require very little time. Which is a must these days in education.
As always, so thankful for all the educators out there! Happy Thanksgiving!
http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fry-Words-Bookmarks-986021
Red Fern Teacher 