Sunday, October 19, 2014
Blog Topic #8: VTS-to-Date
Since our first meeting in August I have become very comfortable facilitating a VTS lesson. The three questions have become very automatic to me and I don't have to think about them so I can concentrate on listening and paraphrasing. I think I am much better at really listening which makes the paraphrasing easier. I try to link and that has become easier too, but there is room for improvement! I really want to work on paraphrasing and building vocabulary when possible so that is my focus right now.
One of my biggest surprises has been how my classes ( I am doing this with more classes than just my "focus" class), have gotten into the routine of VTS and have really learned VTS "etiquette". Some of my students did VTS last year, but even the new students and Kindergarten students have learned how to sit quietly, raise their hands and take turns commenting. No one really talks out of turn or just blurts out a comment. This surprises me because during regular Art class they will often blurt out an answer without raising their hand, but when doing VTS they seem to know the rules--and follow them!
My VTS experience with this class has been so awesome! Yesterday at the Art museum it was so great to see everyone and listen to everyone share their VTS experiences. Just as with teaching, some of the best learning comes from talking and sharing with peers and I think that is what happened yesterday. I'm looking forward to more sharing through the blogs as it is very affirming and humbling at the same time. I think I am learning so much from all of you!
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Your VTSing, as evidenced in your video as well as your museum facilitation, is masterful! LOVE watching you (and participating when you facilitate!) I, too, am impressed at how my students' VTS etiquette has become second nature and how respectful they are. In fact, I have one little kiddo who I'll swear has a split personality. He's wild and obstinate in most areas and aspects of the art room, but once we start the VTS, he is a different child; raises his hand, waits his turn, and is really quite brilliant in his respones! His classmates notice, too. VTS gives him a chance to experience positive interactions with his peers and to be succcessful, at least for a little while. I keep hoping he'll put two and two together and figure out how many more friendships he'd have if he'd just transfer a little of the VTS routine into his day to day behavior! It's amazing, too, how quickly newcomers "get with the program." The museum event was a mountain top experience for me! VTSing in the galleries with peers has got to be my most guilty pleasure!! You all are rock stars and I couldn't be more proud of the amazing work you are doing! So many lucky students out there being touched by your magic!!
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