Questions for Discussion and Debate:
1. What does Sylvia Ashton-Warner mean when she uses the term organic in relation to teaching reading? Describe her organic method. Describe her "scheme."
2. What does she mean by "Key Vocabulary"? And what were some examples of the children's key vocabulary, Maori examples as well as those words that transcend cultures?
3. Ashton-Warner's motives for developing her method were not simply to help her students read and love reading, but also, she often wrote, to channel their aggressive behaviors into more peaceful activities. Do you agree or disagree that there is a connection between teaching method, the curriculum, and student behavior? If you agree, then why is there a need for discipline strategies? Debate this resolution: If teachers construct curriculum and instruction, content and method that are sound and motivating, there would be no need for concern about managing students' behavior.
4. Have you seen the whole-language approach being implemented within a classroom? If so, share your observations.
5. Debate whether or not big books written and published by textbook publishers have the same kind of usefulness as those produced by the children.
6. Debate whether or not Ashton-Warner's "scheme" could also be adapted within high school classrooms in all subject areas.
Answer (2)
Sylvia Ashton-Warner's organic method emphasizes a personalized approach to teaching reading, using key vocabulary relevant to children's experiences. This approach fosters emotional learning while also providing a connection between teaching methods and student behavior, which is crucial in classroom management. Additionally, her methods can be adapted for higher education, promoting engagement across various subjects. ;
Sylvia Ashton-Warner's organic method focuses on personalized reading experiences, using key vocabulary tied to children's lives. This approach links teaching methods to student behavior, highlighting the importance of engagement while acknowledging the need for discipline strategies. Her methods can be adapted to high school environments, promoting deeper connections to the content.
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