Modeling in Reading & Writing
Jamie Florack
Modeling Reading
The key when modeling is to explicitly state why students should use a specific strategy, as well as when and how. Two reading strategies include the think-aloud and the summarization strategy (or paragraph restatement). Teachers should remember to scaffold instruction as needed, and use positive self-talk; students will hopefully pick up on that habit.
WHEN?
In what specific situation is a certain strategy encouraged to be used? Tell students. [Declarative knowledge]
WHY?
For what reasons should students use a specific strategy over another? Tell students. [Conditional knowledge]
HOW?
What do students have to do in order to successfully use a specific strategy? Tell students. [Procedural knowledge]
Support students with a learning disability through the use of cueing, rehearsal, and strategy training.
Modeling Writing
The Self-Regulated Strategy Development Model (SRSD), graphic organizers, the STOP strategy (Suspend Judgment, Take a Side, Organize Ideas, and Plan as you write), and self-reinforcement are a few ideas for teachers to use as modeling strategies in the classroom for writing. Explicit modeling is, again, extremely important; students may not benefit from modeling if it is not clear and straightforward.
Discussion Questions
- What is one example of a reading modeling strategy and one writing modeling strategy?
- What is a way you have seen modeling used during reading and writing instruction throughout your education?
- What do you think is the value of modeling in reading and writing instruction?
Article Authors
Kelly Regan and Sheri Berekely were the minds behind Effective Reading and Writing Instruction: A Focus on Modeling.