Writing supplies...

I never thought about the importance of writing supplies. I remember loving sticky notes and pens and markers and labels as a child, but I somehow forgot my love until I read this week's assignment. I've always wanted a creativity table that's already set-up and available whenever inspiration hits a student. I never thought of having a similar or joint center with a writing table. On Read Across America Day, I went to Ashley Barnes's pre-K or K class. I don't remember which grade it was, but I remember her mentor teacher's writing station. There was a desk with all the writing supplies a student could possibly need. I wish I had my camera with me. I was so inspired.

"Umm... I have a question."

I have heard some many responses to that statement. “Ok… what is it?” “Let’s save our questions for the end.” “Now is not the appropriate time for that.” “Hurry and ask.” or my favorite… ignoring the student completely.

This past week I taught a lesson on questions based on the Harper article we read for class. It was the first of five revision techniques for narrative writing I taught. I started the lesson by saying, “I went to Jamaica over spring break. Any questions?” They had so many, and I answered them all at the end of the lesson.

Chapter 5 in LTSG baffled me because I never thought about teaching students how to ask questions. I am around so many kids of different ages, and they have never had a hard time coming up with questions. In my experience, kids tend to be naturally curious and bold questioners. “Why does the _____ do that?” “How does the _____ work?” “What are they doing?” “What’s for dinner?”

I agree with most of the techniques she described, but I just don’t understand the need. I especially agree with the “I wonder _____.” Strategy because that consistency would be very beneficial. I need to think more about what context she is expecting to teach questioning because I have never had a problem with students not asking questions or not knowing how to ask questions.