I just returned from the International Reading Association Conference in Orlando, FL where I presented a session on "Re-Envisioning the Five Pillars of Reading." One pillar that I include in my re-envisioned paradigm is background knowledge since it's most essential in helping children comprehend what they read.After the session, a teacher shared the title of this YouTube video that I'm now sharing with you. It's by cognitive scientist Daniel T. Willingham and it's called Teaching Content Is Teaching Reading. I highly recommend it. It's only ten minutes long and although the music is a tad annoying, the message—that kids need prior knowledge to comprehend text—is dead on. I hope you enjoy it, share your thoughts, and then, of course, pass it on.
Sharon,
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed the way this professor communicated his point. I'll share this with the teachers in my building/district. As always, thanks for your keen insights and willingness to share. I didn't get to go to IRA, so it's fun to be able to grab tidbits and not feel so left out of the loop...building knowledge!
Thanks! Janiel
Janiel and Stephen, Thanks so much for your thoughtful responses. I feel so negligent about my infrequent postings. I've been so very busy planning professional development to occur throughout these next several weeks that I haven't a moment to spare. however I'm so pleased that you both found this posting helpful and hope you help to spread the word. Background knowledge is so important and we need to do what we can to help push it to the forefront.
ReplyDeletehi janiel. glad you enjoyed the video. and that you can share it with colleagues. hope you're well and looking forward to well-deserved summer break. sharon
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