4:2 Signaling

When and Where Did I Find It:   I found this in our Dreher and Singer (2001, p. 99) article that we read for this week.  

What it means:   This is a specialized use of the word.   When being used to describe features in a textbook, signaling or signals refers to the most obvious features in content area texts (i.e., headings and titles) as well as frequently used transitional/organizational words (i.e., first, second, therefore, and in conclusion) (as cited in, Dreher & Singer, 2001, p. 99).

Level of Familiarity:   I often forget that this is our specialized way of describing and categorizing headings and those key transitional phrases.   I think I need to try and use this word more often when I talk to students about these text features as it would help me to remember the word. 

Do I Want to Know This Word Well and Why?   Yes. I think it is very helpful to know, especially because the word signaling gives a description which will help developing readers to understand the usefulness of paying attention to these features.  

Do I Think Others Should Know This Word Well...if so WHO and WHY?:   It seems obvious that this is a term Literacy Specialists, particularly LTED 625 students, should know.  However, what I think is key about this concept for teachers is that   "teachers should notice whether signals, such s text headings, are helpful or misleading" (p. 99).  Teachers should not assume that all headings provide a literal or direct link to the key ideas in the subsequent passage.