Building A Foundation of Learners

As with any structure, program, or instructional design, it is easy to get into a routine when using Daily 5. Creating I-charts, using the ten steps to independence, and launching the first six weeks of Daily 5 require the same process each year. Many teachers have used Daily 5 for one or more years and have become proficient at it, while others are in the beginning stages and are doing the best they can. Whether you find yourself an expert with Daily 5 or in the novice stage, one thing is important to remember… don't forget the foundational elements. What are the foundational elements?

• Trust students -- It is imperative that we believe our students CAN do it and we set high expectations for them. Children will rise to the expectations we set.


• Provide choice -- Would you prefer being told what to read, where to sit, and what task you have to complete first? Or, would you rather have a choice? Children are no different! Giving children the ability to choose empowers them and helps to create a self-motivated learner.
  
• Nurture community -- A positive classroom environment enhances student ownership, confidence, and pride. It creates the "we can do it" attitude!
  
• Create a sense of urgency -- Always provide students with a purpose for what they are learning. This helps them understand the why, which leads to viewing the task as important and worthy of time and effort.
  
• Build stamina -- Regardless of their age, students must gradually build their stamina before being released to full independence. You may notice that your class builds stamina much faster than you thought, but if you let them go too quickly in the beginning, it won't last long term. Take your time and go slowly… it will pay off in the end!
  
• Stay out of the way once routines are established -- if you are constantly walking around, supporting your students by saying "good job" or "I like how you are reading so quietly", they won't know how to sustain when you eventually go work with small groups and individual students. Trust them, give them space, and let them build their stamina without continual praise from you. By staying out of the way you will help them become independent readers and writers.

Without a foundation, a house would not stand strong. Without the core foundations, Daily 5 behaviors will not sustain.



Reference:
From the Daily 5 Site: by Allison Behne
Boushey, G., & Moser, J. (2006). The daily 5. Portland, ME: Stenhouse.