Principles of Guiding Choice

Share

Gail Boushey

December 11, 2014

December 12, 2014

Issue #334
 

When Joan and I needed to purchase a new video camera, I did a lot of research and then found a reputable camera shop here in Seattle. After realizing that I didn’t understand enough to make a final decision, I sized up the customer service representatives and approached Justin, who happened to be holding one of the top two cameras I had learned about online. We exchanged introductions, and then he started asking clarifying questions that would enable him to better assist me: What is your primary purpose for using this camera? Do you understand the different options available? Do you already know how to use a video camera? 

As I answered each question, I could almost see his brain go through a dichotomous key to narrow down the choices until we settled on one that would best match my needs and skills.

The principles Justin practiced as he helped me make an informed decision were not unique to that situation. They are practiced every day whenever anyone is helped to make a choice, whether the person is choosing a car, a washing machine, or in the case of our students, a good-fit book. Here are the principles Justin applied and how I think they relate to us as we help children select their next book.  

  1. Possess a depth of knowledge about the subject­: Acquiring a vast knowledge of books gives us a solid base from which to recommend titles.
  2. Systematically narrow down options: Asking questions and listening intently for nuggets of information helps us use our own dichotomous key to narrow down possibilities.
  3. Respect the choice made: Their perfectly matched book may not be our top choice or one that we deem expertly written, but in the end it is about keeping them engaged and motivated to continue reading.
  4. Offer follow-up support: We monitor students' selections by conferring with them as needed, providing support to ensure their success.

By asking for assistance from the right person with the right tools, the complex task of choosing a good-fit book can become a lifelong habit for our students. Let’s do whatever it takes to be that teacher for them. 

 

News from The Daily CAFE


 

Publication Celebration

This third-grade class celebrated writing achievements with a Publication Celebration.

Adding Sharing to the Keeping-Track Sheet*

This simple addition to the keeping-track sheet makes it even more useful and informative. 

 

Card Game of War with a Difference*

The popular card game War has been revised a bit to support early number sense as well as counting and cardinality. 


*Available to members
 

 

b-Resilient

Be Thankful
Carol Moehrle reminds us to be thoughtful and genuine as well as thankful.

Conferring with CCPensieve

Edit Calendar Meeting
Calendar meetings are very easy to edit. Learn how to change an existing meeting here.

 

Professional Development Opportunities


2015 Live Workshops

We are excited about our 2015 workshops. At each location, the first day will focus on Daily 5 and Math Daily 3. Day two covers all things CAFE. 

Location

Dates

Chicago, IL
Westin North Shore

April 18, 19

Charlotte, NC
Westin Charlotte

June 6, 7

Tacoma, WA
Hotel Murano

June 25, 26

Orange County, CA
Hyatt Regency Orange County

August 3, 4

Minneapolis, MN
Radisson Blu Mall of America

August 29, 30

Fort Worth, TX
Hilton Fort Worth

September 19, 20

Las Vegas, NV
Tropicana Las Vegas

November 14, 15

2015 Online Seminars

Our online seminars are perfect for those who prefer short bursts of information combined with independent learning. They also work well if you’re time crunched or unable to travel to a live workshop.

During each session, we offer a seminar covering Daily 5, CAFE, and Math Daily 3.

  • February 1–February 28
  • March 1–March 28
  • April 5–May 2

Register

Learn more about Daily 5 and CAFE workshops, online seminars, and online graduate courses.

All-Access Member Exclusive Content

This content is reserved for All-Access members. Consider upgrading your membership to access this resource.

Sign Up Now

No Thanks.

Already a member? Log In