Welcome!

Hello and welcome to "Through the Looking Glass". Thank you for taking the time to visit this online resource. I have created this space as a way to document the observations, analyses, and reflections I make while actively engaging with 29 fourth graders at Mt. Hope Elementary School in Lansing, Michigan.

I fully embrace a concept of literacy that emphasizes the importance of being active, knowledgeable, and empathetic members of society. I'd like to reference Gail E. Tompkins: "Traditional definitions of literacy focused on the ability to read words, but now literacy is considered a tool; a means to participate more fully in the...society of the 21st century."

Accessed from "Parent Institute 2010"

As I journey through the interim period that is student teaching, I will be developing my pedagogy while paying close attention to the way in which my mentor teacher implements literacy in her classroom. It is my goal that as the year progresses I will begin to establish a framework that will supplement my views of what literacy should be, with the strategies my mentor teacher utilizes. Here is where I will relay what I am learning! Please feel free to post your comments, questions, and feedback; all of which would be greatly appreciated. Enjoy!