I found a little time this week to process and add my thoughts to the "Diving into Nonfiction" page on the blog.  Nonfiction Mentor Texts is full of great ideas and I'm finding there is a strong connection to the CCSS Writing standards.

Just to practice what I preach, I've been using Linda Hoyt's Key Word Strategy from Revisit, Reflect, Retell to process what I'm reading and to then summarize it on the "Diving into Nonfiction" page of this blog.  It actually really helped me make quick work of my reflection.  I'm looking forward to trying it with kids soon.  Here's a quick run down of how the strategy works.

1.  Kids read a text challenging enough to push their thinking.

2.  They reread the same selection but keeping in mind that they are selecting a few important words.

3.  As they find the words they write them on a sticky note and place it next to that paragraph. (On a side note, if you only give them one large sticky, the physical act of ripping the sticky for each word actually has a kinesthetic/brain influence on memory.)

4.   After they finish the reread they take all of the sticky notes and set aside the text.

5.  Students then use the sticky notes to orally retell what they learned to someone else (or to themselves).  This part of the retelling is an especially important step for kids who need scaffolding, but benefits all kids in the pre-writing process.

6.  Lastly, they use the sticky notes to write a summary.

I'm including a link to an anchor chart of the strategy and an example from a workshop I got to take through the Boise State Writing Project with Linda Hoyt last summer. 

Anchor Chart

Key Word Example

If you are interested in reading more, let me know.  I'll loan you a copy of the book.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!  May your weekend be blessed!

Angie