Day 25: Inventory Days Part 2: The Writing Inventory

     Here are some useful questions to discover struggling writer's writing history. While these questions appear easy, make sure you or your students/children dig a bit deeper and discover what it really means to be a "good," or even a "struggling," writer. Remind them that everyone starts somewhere and just because something is difficult now, doesn't mean it isn't worthwhile or worth practicing. 

1. When you are given a writing prompt how do you approach it? 
1. I look forward to it
2. I don't know how to begin
3. I'm sure I will fail
4. With a feeling that I can kind of do it
2. What would you consider a writing strength? Even if you currently believe you are lacking it. 
3. What would you consider an area that you could improve in your writing?
4. Describe one of the most interesting writing assignments you have ever been a part of or heard of and why did you find it interesting? 
5. What is the worst or worst type of writing assignment you can recall being a part of?
1. Why was it so terrible? 
6. Do you keep a journal or diary? Have you kept one in the past?
7. What is "Good writing." 

And Remember: 

Just like the different types of cooking, there are many different flavors of writing. Just because you or someone you know struggles with essay writing doesn't mean they will struggle with personal writing or graphic writing or any of the other forms of writing. We all have talents and skills we are proud of and simply need to find our own recipe for success. 

Day 24: Inventory Days Par 1: Reading Inventory

    Reading is one of the most valuable things we as educators/parents can instill within our students/children. As our students/children begin to develop their reading skills, it is imperative that we understand where their attitudes when it comes to reading are formed and how to best foster a pro-reading attitude within our struggling readers.

In order to get a better understanding of your students or child's reading skills, start by asking a few questions about their reading history. Try asking questions like:

1. When you were younger or even now did/ does your parents or someone else read to you or tell you stories of any kind? If so what was your favorite or one you particularly remember?
2. What fairy tales or childhood stories can you remember or recite? 
3. Are their currently books or magazines that you have access to at home? Who reads them?
4. Do you see others reading? Parents? Grandparents? Brothers or sisters? 
5. Did/do you watch TV? If so, have you watched educational segments such as Animal Planet, Sesame Street or any other educational based programs? 
6. What other kinds of shows do you tend to watch on TV or the internet? 
7. Has anyone ever given you a book as either a present or a reward? 
8. What are some of your favorite childhood books?
9. What are some of your favorite books now?
10. Can you remember a teacher that taught y/ou how to read that you particularly enjoyed? What made their way of teaching so enjoyable?
11. When did you stop being read to at either home or at school?
12. Did you ever have to read aloud at school? How did this make you feel? Did others struggle or seem embarrassed? 
13. Are there pressures from either family or friends to not read? In what way do you feel pressured? 
14. Do you have a favorite time or place to read?
15. What was your favorite and least favorite story you ever read or had to listen to? 
16. Do you or your parents buy books regularly? 
17. How do you feel about reading? 

By talking with struggling readers and discovering where the root of their discomfort lies, we can transform reading from a scary and difficult endeavor to an enjoyable and worthwhile activity. 

Look for part two "The Writing," on 12/3/2018.