Final Project

http://prezi.com/o7ripept9is6/michelle-labbies-final-project/?kw=view-o7ripept9is6&rc=ref-38609435

I decided to represent the reading process as a tree.  A reader is just like a tree because they both go through many stages and have different parts that influence the big picture.  As a beginning reader we start out as the seeds of the tree.  Every seed has its own genetic makeup that will help determine the growth, size, look, etc. of the tree.  This is the same with a beginning reader because we all come with our own prior knowledge, experiences, and background.  The things we come into the learning process knowing about helps influence our reading learning process.  After you plant a seed it is important to provide it with the proper care and nutrients.  I think this is comparable to the literacy environment we create for our students, children, etc.  In a proper literate environment we are nurturing our students and helping them to become successful readers.  As a tree starts to grow it begins to develop branches.  These branches can be represented by a reader's new knowledge of phonological awareness, fluency, and vocabulary.  Just like a branch is important for the tree to grow leaves and flowers/fruit...it is equally important for a reader to have these 3 skills.  Without these skills a reader will not be able to comprehend what he or she is reading.  This is why I would say that comprehension is like the leaves.  When a tree has grown its leaves it looks full of life, and when a reader is able to comprehend they have completed their reading task.

Reference list...
Gallagher, K.. (2003).  Reading reasons: Motivating mini-lessons for middle and high school.  Portland,  ME: Stenhouse Publisher.

Graves, M. F., Juel, C., Graves, B. B., Dwitz, P.. (2011).  Teaching reading in the 21st century: Motivating all learners.  Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.