Now that the semester is over and I reflect back on what I have learned in this class, I realize that most of what I learned was discussed at the final. Comprehension; using jig saw reading, KWL charts, and reading that will interest the students. Vocabulary; vocal walls, limited number of words per week so you really have to focus on the essentials, and having constant exposure to the vocabulary. Oral Language; small group discussions, and opportunity for all students to have their voice heard. Writing; short assignments with no pressure, peer review, short stories with the vocabulary words to enhance student learning. Affective dimension; empowerment of the student affecting their confidence, student ownership, and bringing things from their world into our world. Critical Literacy; unlearning what we thought we learned and relearning it all over again, and again, and again, never stop learning. Differentiated learning; three tiered teaching, scaffolding, inquiry model shared collaboration independent IMSCI, I do we do you do.

It's amazing to think that in just a few weeks I will be teaching in a classroom. I will be expected to use all of these things to enhance student learning and literacy. I'm a little scared but mostly I feel empowered. I know that I have a lot of things to cover in a semester with these kids but having literacy as a part of my subject will just make teaching more fun. It gives me new ways to look at a subject, make it fresh, new and more vibrant.

Thanks to all my fellow students I learned a lot from you. I'm not sure if Melanie was trying to get us to take ownership of learning this subject or if it was a fortunate byproduct of her defending her dissertation. Either way it has worked out. Thank you for your brilliant minds brushing up against mine.