Reflective Fieldnote Blog / Entry #3

Section #1 / Thoughts about action research:
I think that action research is a wonderful way to stretch and grow as a professional. Too many times teachers get stuck in the same old rut. Well at least I do. I rely on what I've always done or what others tell me to do. Sometimes it works, but other times its just not right for a certain group of children. It is so beneficial to step outside one's comfort zone and try new strategies and methods. Staying current with the ever changing classroom is so vital to reaching children and making learning the most efficient and beneficial for them

Section #2 / Ideas generated:
For my research action project I chose to investigate a different writing strategy which offered a bit more structure than the one used in the general education classrooms. As a result of my research project, I have developed different ways for students to be successful writers. I have also developed a method for differentiating the way we use a graphic organizer in order to challenge the different academic and language acquisition levels of my students. I plan to use this method in many ways, such as in reading group, science and social studies, and as a center.

Section #3 / Suggestions to other ESL professionals:
If other ESL teachers are looking for ideas or methods for teaching beginning writing to their students, I would stongly reccomend the method that I used. While it is highly structured, it teaches beginning writers or speakers the scaffolding that they need in order to master the techniques of grammar. I offer it as a beginning stepping stone, which hopefully will progress to less structure as they become familiar with the strategy. Using this structured "tree map" offers students wording options within an almost full-proof method. The students are involved in brainstorming a topic, then helping to complete the tree map. Next they begin their rough drafts. After we edit these drafts the students are ready for the final draft. The feel such a sense of pride and accomplishment once they have produced a wonderful writing piece.
 
MTSU Honor Statement:
This assignment/assessment was solely written by me. In no way have I plagiarized (represented the work of another as my own) or otherwise violated the copyright laws and academic conventions of fair use. I know that violations of this policy may result in my being dismissed from Middle Tennessee State University and/or appropriate legal action being taken against me.
Signed (submitting this statement to Teaching Faculty with student's name typed
below constitutes signing):
Celia Denney
Date: Feb. 17, 2010