A Response-Based Approach by Judith A. Langer

“A Response-Based Approach to Reading Literature” by Judith A. Langer had a lot of good information for teacher candidates. In the education program we are learning a lot of different teaching styles and approaches in order to be able to teach a variety of students and this article explored two approaches.  

The exploring horizons approach really caught my attention because it explained that uncertainty was normal and expected because new-found understanding would encourage further possibilities and thinking for students. Our English 493 class continues to discuss the purpose of a teacher in the classroom, and encouraging students to learn and explore new ideas is part of what I believe a teacher’s purpose is. Although the exploring horizons approach may have challenges just like other approaches, it does help students think outside of the box and find a comfortableness to explore their student voice and thought. Along with exploring different ideas, the approach of “point of reference” is also beneficial for students because it allows students to build upon, clarify and modify their understanding. The article explains that sharing and gaining information is typically found in science and social studies texts, but language arts classrooms can also benefit from discussions in order to help students gain knowledge about the literature and author. Exploring horizons and the point of reference approaches can work together in order to help students explore their thinking process and help students discuss.

I found the “general guidelines for instruction” very beneficial to teacher candidates as well. I felt that number two. “Keep students' understandings at the center of focus -- in writing as well as discussion. Always begin with their initial impressions. This will validate their own attempts to understand, and is the most productive place for them begin to build and refine meaning”, made a lot of good points. In my own personal experience in my master classroom I found that students are more motivated to do their work when they can develop their own understanding and expand their knowledge. I would encourage teacher candidates to read this article and save the “general guidelines for instruction”.