Well, sadly I can't find my favorite video now! I had it bookmarked before the changeover, but didn't take the time to save my favorites...
But, the most useful video I have used again and again from this site is one where there is a "class in action"-- doing their Daily 5 while the teacher is conferring with students. I use this to show my first graders what I'm talking about when I am describing "read to self" the first time. Even though the class in the video is older, and they are engaged in more choices than we will be doing initially, it gives them a good idea of what to expect. The video really helps us build that first I-chart before I set them off on their own.
However, I do have to say that last year I got a little smarter and videotaped my own class doing just a "read to self" and have it ready for this year's group. I'm interested in seeing if it helps them to see it be more focused, or if the other video gives them a broader goal to reach for!
