A Video Column

Judy Plavocos was introduced in the Winter issue of Educators' Spotlight Digest. She is both a dedicated educator and a delightful storyteller. We asked Judy to share some of her stories and insights in this video column. You can learn more about Judy in the "About Judy" section at the end of this column.

Reading Comes Alive

Judy recognizes the importance of incorporating strategies that engage students in the learning process. She also feels that making "connections" can help students who are learning to read. "Children need to be taught in a way that is fun and exciting, and creative. When you are teaching (reading), you sometimes have to interpret for the children. Sometimes, because they may speak another language, sometimes because they need you to help them visualize. For example, when I'm teaching reading and come across a word such as "collide," we will talk about the word but I will also bump into the bookshelf and say "I collided with the bookshelf!" I taught the word "lever." How do you teach the word lever? I picked up a ruler and used it as a lever to raise something. You have to be able to act. You lose yourself in the teaching." Let's pick up Judy's interview at this point as she tells about some of the reading strategies she uses with students. You may select the larger frame size if you have a high speed Internet connection.

Making Connections
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