Here at CenterForLit, we are historically known for not being huge fans of the worksheet. We want to listen quietly to what the author has to say instead of using their work in a way they did not intend. However it is true that our students need to develop their vocabulary and grammar skills, and like it or not this is usually one of the main goals of a literature workbook. What, then, are we to do?? There's no denying that the arts of vocabulary and grammar are strongly related, and even necessary predecessors, to the art of literature. So how do we make sure all of these areas get covered without sacrificing our literary philosophy? After all, as much as we'd like to, we can't add more hours to the day.
Read MoreWorksheets and book reports. Ah, you remember them well. In fact, they may be the reason your love of reading burned out as a child. Here at CenterForLit, we are sworn enemies of the comprehension question. And yet, you may wonder how else you are to know whether or not your student completed their reading-- not to mention whether or not they understood it! How do we as teachers cultivate a love of reading while also tracking our students' progress? And what is the proper balance between assignments and free reading?
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