|
"This is an example of quality reading instruction, with modeling of fluency and reading behaviors students so need. While it is basically whole group, it still allows for collaboration and fosters a sense of community. Teachers will have no trouble keeping students joyfully engaged throughout."
Beulah Pickett, Literacy Coach
"I had the opportunity to participate in a class choral reading of "When Pink Flamingos Feel Blue" and I was amazed at how "into" the script the children were. I was involved in the third day of reading. Vocabulary and story introduction were in place. This was the students' second choral reading of the script and they were committed to their characters. They understood the importance of expression, punctuation, and reading together. They were awesome! I read the part of a Zoologist and I was inspired by the kids. I had to step-up my game to be as good as they were! The children really got the funny elements of the story, but they also got the deeper meaning: it's ok to be different. I thoroughly enjoyed my participation in the reading and so did the students. I can't wait to be involved in another one!"
Lainey Jacobs, Reading Recovery Teacher
"When Pink Flamingos Feel Blue" is an awesome form of literature; especially in 4th grade! We are able to use your play as a demonstration of so many skills needed for the Writing test. There's the possibility of teaching excellent authentic voice, great organization, inference and much, much more. We thank you!!!"
Shirlene Baker, 4th Grade Teacher
"I thank you for inviting me to your Choral Reading class. Here is my honest feedback. I loved how all children had the opportunity to have a part in the reading. The children were thoroughly engaged in their reading They were encouraged through their reading to listen to how they sound (active listening). The children are learning how to bring characters in a story alive. They are developing their comprehension skills. Positive self-esteem is being created through class collaboration (working together) Children enjoyed their active part…I feel this also helps them in learning how to express their own personal feelings when dealing with an issue."
Lisa Boykin, Wayne County Teacher Assistant of the Year
"I thought "When Pink Flamingos Feel Blue" was an excellent reading selection for the students. It was entertaining and it taught a lesson. I loved the Choral Reading lesson! The students and adults were engaged and it reinforced all the skills we want to cover in a testing grade classroom: vocabulary, critical thinking, and the higher order of Blooms. The lesson promoted fluency and gave all readers a chance to be successful. Congrats on a job well done!"
Carol Artis, Principal
"I plan to use "When Pink Flamingos Feel Blue" in my music classes. What a great way to practice musical phrasing and expression! I eventually hope to adapt this Readers Theatre Piece into a mini-stage musical. It will be interesting working with this piece and integrating it into the music program."
Kim Brown, Music Specialist
Deep River Elementary School
"Last week the Flamingo story fit perfectly with our theme. I had the class read it together and was impressed with their response. I could tell they were paying close attention to the meaning of the words by their vocal inflections and enthusiasm. When we discussed it afterwards, I asked them to think if they had ever felt like a Blue Flamingo and they ALL nodded. We talked a bit about what that felt like...as well as what it was like to be a Pink Flamingo and meet someone who was Blue. I think this story has really set the stage and given us some language to explore this subject more in the future. This class is grades 6, 7 & 8! They did not seem to find any of it too childish and I believe they understood the depth. Thank you so much for sharing it with us! I'm sure I will use it again."
Barbara Eade, Teacher
Ottawa, Canada
"I want to send a great BIG "thank you" to Mrs. Jenkins for allowing me to come into her class to help me launch the play "When Pink Flamingos Feel Blue." I can honestly say that each day just gets better and better. The students have been focused, on task, interactive and most importantly....they are having fun reading! The vocabulary and comprehension responses have been WAY above my expectations for this "first time" activity. I continue to get those big emotional lumps in my throat when I see that these elementary students are not only enjoying the humor in the story, but ALSO grasping the deeper, serious meaning of the play. If that's not "higher level thinking" then I don't know what is! Every single student has been involved and that's the whole point...no child has been left behind!"
Gregory Brown, Reading Recovery Teacher
|
