Making the Most of Reading Time with Exit Tickets

Exit tickets are a great way to check on student progress in many different areas of learning.  I often found that during read aloud time and silent reading time I was "disconnected" from some of my students.  During read alouds they may look like they are listening but were spacing out, or when I asked questions while reading they were too timid to give their opinion or answer out loud. During silent reading I often listen to and read with students who are struggling and feel disconnected from students who are on level or above.     

I decided to implement reading exit tickets into these times in order to connect with students again about what they are reading.  I made sure to emphasize that this isn't a "test" (although I do look at them for info as a teacher about where my students are as readers.)  

I love to use these during read aloud time... it is a great way to get students thinking about what you are reading and to avoid the "distracting voice" that can sometimes pop up while you are reading.  

I always let the students know what the exit ticket will be so that they can think about it while I am reading.  After I have read aloud, I pass out the exit tickets and give the students just a couple minutes to jot down their ideas or answers.  

Occasionally, I will use these during silent reading.  I will place a variety of the tickets out in labeled containers so that students can pick an exit ticket that best works for one of the books they read.  I love reading these and getting insight on what students are reading and thinking about during their independent reading.  

I use tubs with labels to help students choose which exit ticket is right for them.

I just ask students to grab one ticket to complete either during or after silent reading.  It's a quick, easy way to check in on reading skills.  

Music, Organize, and Dollar Deal... OH MY!

I have been wanting to post about this topic for a long time.  Now, Amanda at Teaching Maddeness has created a linky for this topic!  Yeah!  I am so excited!

I have two young children at home who watch Nick Jr. ALL THE TIME!  I constantly hear these songs in my head!  Just check them out, then I will proceed with my thoughts.

AND

Now, there is not much left to explain.  Here are my thoughts:

#1- It is a visual and cute jingle that the students are already familiar with.

#2- Routines make for easier transitions and time management.

#3- PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions) create for a positive classroom environment. Also...  This is off topic, but...  I also wanted to share a TREASURE I discovered with a jewelry organizer.  Check out these pictures.  I organized all my magnetic letters in alphabetical order on one side.  On the other side, my Saxon Phonics letter cards fit perfectly!

Lastly, I am trying to hit a personal goal in my TpT store this quarter.  I have my Baseball Mini-unit on sale for $1.00 until the end of June.  This is your chance to start your school year with a HOME RUN!  Please look at the preview below and click to purchase your copy today (for only $1.00)!

Endless Possibilities,

Stephanie