But the lesson isn't over. Throughout the day in Room 11 at Fairland Elementary School, Grenon blends the elements of whole-language instruction with the basic skills that she and many experts believe beginning readers need. This is the sixth year of teaching for Grenon, who thinks of herself as a whole-language teacher. Some kids really struggle. It's my job to figure out what's best for that child.
Writing is a central activity of every school day.
The students have daily writing workshops and conferences with Grenon and each other. From the first day of school, Grenon had her charges write. Those who didn't know any of their letters drew pictures. Over time, she would ask them for one letter and then one word to go with it, gradually expanding their letter and word knowledge. Today, Matt shares an elaborate tale of a trip he took to the Kings Dominion amusement park.