Material Culture/Observation: Raw Data Sample Class 2

The following photographs were taken on September 20, 2012 in “Third Grade Class 2”

Observations: During implementation of the treatment, students in the class are independently completing their literacy block which is based on the “Daily 5” structure.  The classes use the “6+1 Traits of Writing” and the “Café’” approach to literacy strategy instruction.  In addition to observations in the classroom, I wanted to provide information and photos of the material culture within each of the classrooms that have been observing and working in. In each of these classes, the walls are used for more than decoration; the walls are full of visual supports for students and interactive activities to support their independence. 

The paper plates that pictured above are attached to a wall with student names on them. These are the groups that the teacher is currently pulling for small group instruction.  During an informal interview with the teacher she stated that she used paper plates so she can pull them down and change them quickly when student skill needs change.

This photograph shows a sample of a “work on writing” ask from Class B to be completed during the “Daily 5” literacy block.  Students are provided with simple directions and a teacher-model to support their independent completion of the task. Students are able to creatively work on their writing while providing work samples for the teacher to analyze later.

The above photographs are visual supports for students who are engaging in the “Daily 5” reading time.  During the “Read to Self” component of the literacy block, students choose a book by using the “IPICK” strategy to ensure they choose a book that is a “good fit” for them.  The “Read to Self” poster provides expectations for students engaging in this activity.

This visual is displayed in the back of the classroom for students to use when working on their writing pieces.  This set of posters is not teacher-made or interactive without the teacher referring to the poster often. I have not observed the teacher drawing attention to the posters detailing the writing process but this may be occurring when I am not in the classroom.