Action Research First Draft

Action Planning Template
Goal: To provide students of low socioeconomic status the skills- tools needed to improve comprehension including but not limited to technology.
Action Steps(s):	Person(s) Responsible:	Timeline: Start/End	Needed Resources	Evaluation
1.Identify 6 to 10 students with low socioeconomic backgrounds to assist in research project	Brandi Murrey Angelee Morales	August 2012-May 2013	School documentation for free or reduced lunches	Use the information from the school to determine students who are low SES.
2. Obtain previous DRA test.	Brandi Murrey Previous Teacher	August 2012- May 2013	Previous teacher documentation in student’s cumulative file.	Use the information to determine struggles with comprehension.
3. Determine student’s level of vocabulary.	Brandi Murrey Student	August 2012-May 2013	Small group setting using sight word activities.	Enhance vocabulary use and the students ability to deliver what  they learned from the story.
4.  Obtain knowledge of student’s phonological awareness.	Brandi Murrey Student	August 2012- May 2013	Small group setting and computer.	Enhance students phonological awareness to allow them to read more fluently.

Action Planning Template
Goal: To provide students of low socioeconomic status the skills- tools needed to improve comprehension including but not limited to technology.
Action Steps(s):	Person(s) Responsible:	Timeline: Start/End	Needed Resources	Evaluation
5. Determine if student has any short or long time memory deficiencies.	Brandi Murrey	August 2012- May 2013	Skills to increase short and long term memory.	Retelling of information read, sequence activities or putting to use what was read.
6. Evaluate the outcome of reading instruction.	Brandi Murrey Student	August 2012-May 2013	Small group DRA leveled readers.	Evaluate using rubrics, test, sequence activities or retelling.
7.  Obtain DRA scores and story test every two weeks.	Brandi Murrey Student	August 2012- May 2013	Small Group Leveled Readers	Compare current DRA data with beginning DRA data to determine growth.
8. Compile all data into the Action Research Plan and present an informal presentation.	Brandi Murrey Angelee Morales	August 2012-May 2013	Baseline Data Midyear Data End of Year Data	Using all data collected to determine if skills taught helped low se students improve comprehension.

Format based on Tool 7.1 from Examining What We Do to Improve Our Schools

(Harris, Edmonson, and Combs, 2010)

Week Two Reflection

This week I have spent time discussing my topics with my mentor as well as viewing videos about action research. Action Research is a very important part of being a leader in any position. As a leader you should be able to identify areas that need improving and put a plan in to place to help improve the identified areas. Reflection will be an important tool in helping you identify areas of need. Sometimes we became so busy that it is difficult to identify areas of need, but reflecting on the day will help you take a closer look. I am excited to begin putting my action research plan together and beginning the new school year so that I can implement it .

Action Research Reflection

Action Research 
       As I began this course, I was not sure as to what action research entailed.    I did not realize the depth and steps involved in action research planning. This week has taught me that action research can help me find a way to work on concerns in my classroom, school or district. When you put a plan in place it is much easier to work towards a solution. You must have a vision to guide you in the correct direction.  Choosing a topic to research was a challenge for me, I was not sure which avenue I wanted to explore. I have chosen to look at comprehension in our lower SE students. Each year I struggle with this concept, I believe due to the push for fluency. Yes you want your students to be fluent readers, but don't you also want them to comprehend. Developing a love of reading comes from knowing what you are reading. I look froward to beginning my plan in the fall. 


Leaders and Blogs
      The past school year our principal had a blog. It was great for keeping us posted on things going on, or sharing links, articles and praises. This was a great tool for her until it turned negative and then the blog went away. 
     Leaders can use blogs not only for communicating with staff and others in the district. They may also utilize it to communicate with parents and the community. What a great way to share quick words about what is happening on campus.