Interactive video lesson plan for: Connectors Overview

Connectors explicitly guides a small group of students in using comprehension strategies and oral language, independent of the teacher. It uses a small-group peer learning approach based on Reciprocal Reading. Each text has been specifically designed to include challenging vocabulary and unfamiliar content to raise questions and promote discussion about the text. By using Connectors, students are constructing and strengthening the meaning of what they read and applying comprehension strategies in a social setting. In small group reading independent of the teacher (after teacher modelling) students practise using comprehension strategies and oral language skills in a peer-group setting. Connectors uses eight comprehension strategies, including the four from Reciprocal Reading. The twelve short texts have been specifically designed to introduce new vocabulary and raise questions for discussion. Nonfiction texts have been selected to challenge students thinking and encourage discussion. Alternate students lead the peer-group discussion. Student guidance on the What to Do page is at the beginning of every book and for the group leader on every page. Students review and summarise their thoughts using a variety of graphic organisers on the Something to Think About page and may do further research using the key words on the Want to Find Out More? page. Recommended for groups of six students who are independent readers aged 9+. http://www.scholastic.com.au/connectors