RMWP Camp Day 4

Time: 7:40-6:40

Schedule:
- Introduction to Miro and the Dream World
- Writing to describe a dream world or creature
- ArtPlay - use watercolor paintings and Sharpies to draw figures and creatures
- Drafting time
- Computer lab/revision time

Today the students struggled a bit more to connect to their art and create a meaningful poem. At ArtPlay on Tuesday, they used watercolors to cover a paper with shapes and drips. Today, using the inspiration of Miro, they used Sharpie markers to trace the shapes and identify objects and creatures in the painting. I felt like the students were not as interested in this piece as the others. Many of the students had to be redirected to stay on task and be productive. When we got back to the classroom, we tried to motivate them by explaining the goal and expectations of the week a bit more clearly. We split the group into two rooms to let them spread out and work more quietly. I felt that was very helpful. The afternoon was spent working with students to complete drafts and revise all four pieces in the computer lab. I worked with one student to finish each of his poems. When he writes freely, he naturally creates paragraphs. We focused on transforming his work into poetry by selecting line breaks. He struggles with figurative language and imagery, so I tried to challenge him to add more vivid descriptions. Because I know he struggles, I was very pleased with the work he completed.

After the students left, we stayed to plan the logistics of tomorrow's showcase. Then, Mrs. Peavy and I went to the computer lab to read some of the students' work and work on their rubrics. That was extremely beneficial for me because I got to directly observe her critiques and suggestions. Then I began to add comments and make changes on my own. I felt like this was a perfectly scaffolded opportunity for me to practice reading and evaluating students' poetry. I also enjoyed Mrs. Peavy's affirmation as we walked out as she encouraged me to trust my instincts and have confidence in myself in conferences.