Can You Read This?

In Writers' Workshop, I told students to read the paragraphs below.  We discussed the difficulties we encountered when reading.  Although we could read the passage (with not that much difficulty), we concluded that spelling (editing) is still an important component in the writing process, as mispelled words make our writing look unprofessional, and we want to be taken seriously as authors.  Take a look at the passage below; it's based on a Cambridge University study.  Pretty neat!

        I cnduo't bvleiee taht I culod aulaclty uesdtannrd waht I was rdnaieg. Unisg the icndeblire pweor of the hmuan mnid, aocdcrnig to rseecrah at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mttaer in waht oderr the lterets in a wrod are, the olny irpoamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rhgit pclae. 
       The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whoutit a pboerlm. Tihs is bucseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey ltteer by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Aaznmig, huh? Yaeh and I awlyas tghhuot slelinpg was ipmorantt! See if yuor fdreins can raed tihs too.

After coming to our conclusions about spelling and its importance when editing, students learned to use a "Try It" page in their notebooks.  Students circle words that don't look quite right, then go to their Try It page.  They try to spell the word at least three times, then decide on the spelling that looks the most correct or familiar.  Take a look below to see how students are applying this critical editing lesson.

Homework: 

• Math homework due tomorrow
• Flash cards (x0-5): 20 minutes 

• Read: 20 minutes

Reminders:

• x5 Fluency Quiz Tomorrow
• Bank Day tomorrow.
• Clip Hall of Fame Celebration: Thursday, February 5 at 9:30 AM.

Classroom Supplies: I want to sincerely thank all families who've donated supplies to our classroom.  Your generosity is very much appreciated!

Thank you,

Ms. Smith