B a r b a r a s h e r I l L u s t r a t I o n s b y r a L p h

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By creating their own space, children are learning one way to keep their
attention focused on one task, such as doing homework. Making a pleasing
physical barrier keeps them from being easily distracted. They are also
learning how to organize their time by setting their own schedule. And they
are learning that you respect their ability to make their own decisions.
I’m the Teacher
Reading is a visual process, which is fine unless you happen to learn better
through your ears. In this activity, children who don’t always understand
what they read get to hear the words spoken. What’s even better is that they
get to be the all-knowing teacher.
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Focused
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Video recorder
D
I R E C T I O N S
Ask your learner to pretend that he is the teacher and is reading to his class.
Have him pick some dry material that he is having difficulty understanding.
Set up the video recorder so that he can sit (or stand) and read to his class.
Suggest, or model, that he read with style, emphasizing the important
points, so that when he watches the tape, he can take notes and learn from
his “teacher.” Do a few practice runs, if he wants, before you turn on the
recorder.
Games for 6- to 12-Year-Olds
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V
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Use a tape recorder.
W
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⽧ Pretending to be someone who is more capable has the amazing effect
of making children feel and be more capable.
⽧ Reading aloud by performing in front of a camera increases children’s
alertness and attention.
⽧ Because another pathway is stimulated, listening to what is being read
makes it easier to understand.
⽧ Taking notes on what they are hearing puts the material through even
a third pathway, the kinesthetic one.
⽧ They will understand that material!