Thursday, September 27, 2012

September 27: Complex Language in Middle Grade

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago RT @Bec_AS: RT @Bec_AS: Hi, everyone! Let please use small words to discuss complex language in MG! :D#mglitchat


DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago Welcome to #mglitchat! Tonight @rachelnseigeland I are discussing using complex language in MG.

KDuBayGillis about 1 hour ago Yay! #MGLitchat is now

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago Standing by for take off- but also directing mental traffic to some revision notes- stay alert for collisions. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop *revision cookies* #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS Yes, please :) #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago RT @Bec_AS: RT @Bec_AS: Hi, everyone! Let please use small words to discuss complex language in MG! :D#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS *grin* Will try. :) #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago To start off, what would you consider complex language in MG? #mglitchat

elissacruz about 1 hour ago (Hi, everyone! It been awhile since I've been able to be here.) I am curious to know what kind of complex language y'all use. #Mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty I'd say vocabulary that is slightly above the average reading level of the reader? #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty Really, anything that the reader has to stop and ask what it means. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel I agree. I'd also add in complexity on a sentence level too. (Hopes that made sense.) #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I'd like to mention an author who doesn't use complex language. Carl Hiaasen #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago #Mglitchat has anybody read "Mr & Mrs. Bunny" by Polly Horvath? Some criticism of language being too hard.

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago I see a difference between complex language and challenging vocabulary, as well as dialect, colloquialisms,etc.#mglitchat

coachhays64 about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS The incomparable #mglitchat delves into language complexity in the realm of middle grade literature. Masterful topic selection.

elissacruz about 1 hour ago I used to use all sorts of complex words when I wrote, but I've since been cured. It was fortuitous occasion when... ;) #Mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @elissacruz Groan! #Mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop Great point! I agree. Complexity of language has so many layers. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS My concern with "fluent" MG readers is that unless the word is "hard to pronounce" they don't stop to consider nuance. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @elissacruz *grin* Me too. :) #mglitchat

michaelascotto about 1 hour ago Depending on the reader, I'd throw metaphor in there #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago In complex language, are we talking about subtext, too? #mglitchat

lshullinger about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel Hi everyone! I've never read that one, but I found several of Polly Horvath books a bit complex for MG #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @matt_janacone I would definitely include subtext as part of complex language. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty @rachelnseigel That was too complicated for me to understand. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop True, a lot just "breeze" over words. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @lshullinger I love her language personally, but is it maybe a bit too sophisticated for marketed age? #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I don't enjoy reading novels with spelling bee words you have to look up every two seconds. #mglitchat

elissacruz about 1 hour ago In all seriousness, I do like seeing authors use more complex language, but it a fine line. Too complex and you lose reader. #Mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago Confession: as a child, I loved complex language--esp. meeting new words. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago Spelling bee words can be a distraction having to stop reading to look them up. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @michaelascotto absolutely- any figurative language, including missing sarcasm, irony, hyperbole taken as literal... #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @matt_janacone The problem is that spelling bee words are going to vary from person to person. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago Why does my dog decide he wants to play now when I'm in the middle of #MGlitchat?

Bec_AS about 1 hour ago @matt_janacone I'll second that, and I bet many MG readers agree. #mglitchat

CandycaneClaus about 1 hour ago #mglitchat Complex language is ok on a kindle because it has a built-in dictionary.

lshullinger about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel I agree. I loved My One Hundred Adventures, but The Canning Season seemed too old for mg#mglitchat

dianezahler about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS Adult readers do too. Context often reveals meaning. #mglitchat

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago this is a great topic at #mglitchat I definitely like to use complex vocabulary in my narrative, tho i try to keep dialogue simple

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @CandycaneClaus That one of the things I love about ereaders. :) #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 1 hour ago For complex words done right, I like Lemony Snicket. My 8yo knows ersatz, quagmire, etc. because of the context used. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS And miss the true story, character, depth. #mglitchat

michaelascotto about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel To this I can absolutely relate!#mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago Curious about something: Do you feel an MC (1st pov) using an extensive vocab. is just the author excuse to have more freedom? #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago This is a timely topic for me (selfish writer) because I have to keep going over words my editor finds "too big" for MG. #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 1 hour ago @elissacruz I have a tough time switching from professional scientist mode of writing to mg mode. Science verbage not compatible. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @elliefalcone I think it depends on the character voice. #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel I'm sending my dogs over to play with him. They are nutty too. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @michaelascotto And he was sleeping peacefully until about 2 minutes ago! Foot wrestling now! #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty Subtext- whew, when kids learn to recognize it they feel like they've broken a new code!!!#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @JeanGiardina Good! They can tire each other out! #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I don't mind learning a new word once in a while, but I don't want to feel like I'm studying with a dictionary @ hand.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @lshullinger Canning Season was my least favourite. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop Yes! Which is what makes it so awesome. :D #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop @michaelascotto Wait--so we're saying MG'ers wouldn't get this? #mglitchat

elissacruz about 1 hour ago @coachhays64 I can imagine! #Mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I think the more commercial a novelist is the less they use complex language, like Carl Hiaasen. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel Thanks--I will. Now, back to#mglitchat!

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago I think there is a different between using complex vocabulary (words here and there) and complex language#mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty Oddly enough, all the books I've read like that the mc is very conveniently smarter than average.#mglitchat

michaelascotto about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters I think those kinds of choices have to be purposeful/rooted in character #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop It the teaching them to catch it in the first place, though! #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel He wants to learn new words?#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @coachhays64 #Sciencyfiction stories or #geekystories are ideal for you- like #TheReinventionofEdisonThomas#mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago @matt_janacone Especially if it pulls you out of the story. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters He knows plenty- including some we didn't teach him! ;-) #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 1 hour ago @coachhays64 And science sentence structure not compatible either. It like two different languages. @elissacruz#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @elliefalcone In that case, good probability.#mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @CandycaneClaus Just another way technology could change how we read! Squee! #mglitchat

elissacruz about 1 hour ago Slightly OT, but son had to write down 1 word he didn't know in the book he was reading for class. His word: typewriter. #Iamold #Mglitchat

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago @elliefalcone i think you're right that maybe the elevated language is the author voice intruding in. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS Jean Lord has a fantastic book for helping kids work with subtext- and I believe using #picturebooksfirst is ideal. #mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago If it stays true to the character, then I have no problem with the complexity of it all. But... #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago #Mglitchat does anyone else find that reviewers sometimes equate "beautiful writing" with sophisticated language?

JenniferCEstes about 1 hour ago Sad to be missing #mglitchat tho

CandycaneClaus about 1 hour ago @elliefalcone Could be. When I'm writing 1st, I don't think about writing/vocab, I become the character, like an actor. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I know when I write, I like to use short, simple sentences in short paragraphs with simple, everyday words.#mglitchat

michaelascotto about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters I'd call it more a rung on the reading ladder. Some won't be ready, but that not a reason to exclude it #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @michaelascotto Oh good. B/c if sarcasm, irony, and metaphor is out, I am in biiiiig trouble. Plus, HP had all that!#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @GioraMoore @rachelnseigel Technically 9-12 years of age. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I aim to entertain first. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop Let me know the title, if you have it! #mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago @elissacruz Boy do I feel old now. lol #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 1 hour ago @DanyelleLeafty @matt_janacone I think you have to balance reader comfort with reader challenge & it takes a lot of practice. #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters: Topic...and treats, please:) LOL#mglitchat

elliefalcone about 1 hour ago @CandycaneClaus Same here. Training as an actor helps too. =) #mglitchat

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters @michaelascotto i was thinking about HP...elevated language, elevated world-building, and kids ate it up. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @coachhays64 @matt_janacone I agree. Which is why it so important to be aware of your potential audience as a writer. #mglitchat

michaelascotto about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters I think HP grew in sophistication as its audience aged; neat way to map readers' developmental progress, maybe #mglitchat

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago but maybe it wrong to use HP as an example of the norm! #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 1 hour ago @PBWorkshop: Nice to you see you! We must catch up and see how we might work together sometime:)#mglitchat

coachhays64 about 1 hour ago @michaelascotto @ilanawaters Very well said.#mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago Selfish WIP questions: would MG'ers understand the phrases "gnash your teeth" and "bought for a song?" #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters Wasn't that expression used in Where the Wild Things Are? #mglitchat

elissacruz about 1 hour ago @elliefalcone Yeah, tell me about it.#IamreallyoldnowIguess #Mglitchat

matt_janacone about 1 hour ago I do believe novels should have educational value, buit they should be entertaining first. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters I mean gnashed his terrible teeth...#mglitchat

JoWhittemore about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel Yes! But when I try and do the same thing, I feel like a pretentious knob. #mglitchat

wordsbysheela about 1 hour ago @michaelascotto @ilanawaters true...JKR transitioned seamlessly into YA...and caught an even larger share of the audience :) #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters I would vote yes. :) #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @pattyjmchats Whuh? Huh? I don't understand the question. But I do have treats...*hands out candy* #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @JoWhittemore I know! I appreciate language, but that an adult point of view- maybe? #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 1 hour ago @ilanawaters: If you weave meaning in context, etc. "hey that was bought for a song...I only paid twelve dollars!"#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @Bec_AS Breakthrough to Meaning (long subtitle) Wrong author, tho: Jean Anne Clyde Heinemann, 2006.#mglitchat

JoWhittemore about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel "I concur," she acquiesced with voluminous humility. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 1 hour ago @rachelnseigel I don't know--I will look it up! Thanks. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 1 hour ago @pattyjmchats Will do- I see some school folks tomorrow and will ask where they stand on this year plans.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 1 hour ago @JoWhittemore Gosh- that was too many big words for me! ;-) #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 59 minutes ago I agree with Jimmy Buffett, staying in the two- to three-syllable range with words. #mglitchat

JenniferCEstes about 59 minutes ago How long do stitches take, actually, in doctor office versus emergency room? *drums fingers* *lurks#mglitchat*

pattyjmchats about 59 minutes ago @ilanawaters: What the topic tonight??#mglitchat

coachhays64 about 59 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty @matt_janacone It quite the spectrum of audience between early mg & upper mg. Must seriously "target" audience. #mglitchat

elissacruz about 59 minutes ago @JoWhittemore That is the winning linguistic expression of the night, Jo. #Mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 59 minutes ago If not, kids will avoid! RT@matt_janacone:believe novels should have educational value, buit they should be entertaining first. #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 59 minutes ago @PBWorkshop: I would be truly honored:)#mglitchat

matt_janacone about 59 minutes ago Of course, I think "The Little Prince" could be a complex novel. Lots of subtext. #mglitchat

CandycaneClaus about 58 minutes ago @ilanawaters @pattyjmchats I want candy! :) #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 58 minutes ago @ilanawaters “And the wild things roared their terrible roars and gnashed their terrible teeth and rolled their terrible eyes.... #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 58 minutes ago @matt_janacone Love that novel! So many layers. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 58 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Thanks! #Mglitchat

ilanawaters about 58 minutes ago @pattyjmchats Oh, sorry--"complexity of language in MG". #mglitchat Have more treats.

rachelnseigel about 58 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty @matt_janacone I do too- but didn't until I was a teen. When I read it at 9, I found it kind of boring. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 58 minutes ago @matt_janacone More concerned with the 1-2 syllable words being used in unusual ways, kids read what they "expect" it to mean. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 57 minutes ago @pattyjmchats @DanyelleLeafty This is good input--thank you! #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 57 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @matt_janacone True. I discovered it as a teen too. #mglitchat

JoWhittemore about 57 minutes ago @elissacruz Thank you, thank you!#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 57 minutes ago @ilanawaters @pattyjmchats You're welcome. :) #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 57 minutes ago Do yoou think there is a shortage of mid-grade authors out there, complared to YA, picture books?#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 57 minutes ago @rachelnseigel My point exactly about#picturebook power to model and explore language/vocabulary: Jane Yolen, Sendak, et al #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 56 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Picture Books often have elevated language, but they're read aloud. Are some novels read aloud only? #picturebook #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 56 minutes ago I've read novels by Chris Crutcher and Stephen Roos. Had Roos as an instructor @ the Institute of Children Lit. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 56 minutes ago @JeanGiardina Thanks for the insta-poll! See, this is why I'm on twitter. :-) Tell your 11 yo I said thanks.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 55 minutes ago #Mglitchat How about "Phantom Tollbooth" which was full of word-play? It a modern classic, and I loved it as a kid!

ilanawaters about 55 minutes ago @rachelnseigel You are so helpful and I love you! Now I don't have to take picture books out of library claiming "research." #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 54 minutes ago @rachelnseigel That one that I think achieved a very good balance re: complexity/understandability.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 54 minutes ago @ilanawaters Best part of my job is spending a day reading picture books -in the name of research of course! ;-)#mglitchat

matt_janacone about 54 minutes ago I used to read alot of 'Encyclopedia Brown'.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 53 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty I agree- I think some went over my head at that age- I get more out of it each time I read it, but loved it then! #mglitchat

ixtumea about 53 minutes ago #mglitchat

DsBSC about 53 minutes ago RT @Bec_AS: RT @Bec_AS: Hi, everyone! Let please use small words to discuss complex language in MG! :D#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 53 minutes ago @rachelnseigel don't have to be read aloud...Plenty (often older) titles have 1000-2000 words, complex story,character, language. #mglitchat

dianezahler about 53 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty James Thurber books too. I think it easy to underestimate what kids are able/willing to understand. #mglitchat

elissacruz about 53 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @PBWorkshop I agree. In some ways, language in a MG novel could be simpler than a picture book. #Mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 53 minutes ago @rachelnseigel Those are my favorite books--the kind that I get something new out of with each re-read.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 53 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Which makes me wonder if we r dumming down books instead of challenging kids? #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 53 minutes ago @rachelnseigel How I envy you! And you knew about the gnashing line right away....you are full of smarts!#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 52 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty Me too! And the sign of the best children books of course! #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 52 minutes ago @dianezahler I agree. Thanks for the rec--will be looking him up. :) #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 52 minutes ago @ilanawaters LOL! It just popped into my head- don't know where these things come from sometimes!#mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 52 minutes ago @ilanawaters: I also think using complex language for the sake of using it = not a good idea---words need to fit, be necessary:) #mglitchat

elissacruz about 52 minutes ago @rachelnseigel I think that book is great for kids who understand wordplay. Or love it, like I do. ;) #Mglitchat

elliefalcone about 51 minutes ago @elissacruz Picture books can be pretty deep sometimes. #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 51 minutes ago Has anyone successfully used a language reference. I have CHILDREN WRITER WORD BOOK but don't use it well. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 51 minutes ago @elissacruz Me too! I love a clever turn of phrase in a kid book! #Mglitchat

matt_janacone about 51 minutes ago I wrote a mid-grade novel called "The Flip". Very little complex language/subext. #mglitchat

RosanneParry about 51 minutes ago What I love about complex language for MG readers is that it rewards a repeat reader and invites conversation w/ fellow readers. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 51 minutes ago @rachelnseigel Many of Seuss "preachy" titles can be read aloud to little ones for the ear music, read BY olders, discussed. #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 51 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: RT @rachelnseigel:@PBWorkshop Which makes me wonder if we r dumming down books instead of challenging kids? #mglitchat

dianezahler about 51 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @PBWorkshop I think that a great question. And I think sometimes the answer is yes.#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 51 minutes ago More often than we notice! RT @elliefalcone:@elissacruz Picture books can be pretty deep sometimes.#mglitchat

DsBSC about 50 minutes ago Who knows maybe I should stick to mg. I complain about books being too wordy. #mglitchat #MGlitchat

rachelnseigel about 50 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Not to mention the fun that adults can have with some- let say I'll never look at "Fox in Sox" the same way! #mglitchat

elissacruz about 50 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @PBWorkshop Wait, is "simpler" even a word? My simplified language skills do have some negative drawbacks. ;) #Mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 50 minutes ago Agree! RT @PBWorkshop: More often than we notice! RT @elliefalcone: @elissacruz Picture books can be pretty deep sometimes. #mglitchat

DsBSC about 50 minutes ago “@matt_janacone: I used to read alot of 'Encyclopedia Brown'. #mglitchat” me too!

dianezahler about 50 minutes ago @JeanGiardina I use a thesaurus constantly.#mglitchat

matt_janacone about 50 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: RT @rachelnseigel:@PBWorkshop Which makes me wonder if we r dumming down books instead of challenging kids? #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 50 minutes ago @pattyjmchats Oh yes, I agree. But it weird how many "grown up" words I use in my MS w/o realizing it.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 50 minutes ago @dianezahler @PBWorkshop Which is why I really dislike the idea of Hi/Lo books. Raise kids up- not lower our standards. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 49 minutes ago @elissacruz @PBWorkshop Yes- in the right context. #Mglitchat

michaelascotto about 49 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: @PBWorkshop Which makes me wonder if we r dumming down books instead of challenging kids? #mglitchat

elliefalcone about 49 minutes ago @PBWorkshop I know. I've leafed through quite a few feeling like I missed something. #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 49 minutes ago @JeanGiardina: Yep, it on my bshelf. It handy, but the more u write for kids, the more u get a feel for the lang/levels. IMHO #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 49 minutes ago @JeanGiardina That sounds neat. What does it do, exactly? #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 48 minutes ago @dianezahler Are you looking for better synonyms that the one you first chose? Or using it another way?#mglitchat

michaelascotto about 48 minutes ago @rachelnseigel absolutely agree. Often, kids rise to the expectations adults set for them #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 48 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @PBWorkshop I think we should write in a way that kids get entertained but learn w/o knowing it. Surprise them! #mglitchat

DsBSC about 48 minutes ago Once had eldest tell us a book wasn't in English #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 48 minutes ago @michaelascotto @rachelnseigel I agree. Too many adults underestimate kids. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 48 minutes ago @michaelascotto My mom always said you rise up to or down to the level expected of you! #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 47 minutes ago @ilanawaters It a book of word lists grouped by grade. Also lists synonyms by grade level. #mglitchat

dianezahler about 47 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @PBWorkshop Some of those are aimed at kids w/real reading trouble tho-learning disabilities etc. There a need. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 47 minutes ago Heck! Picture books can be complex!#mglitchat

michaelascotto about 47 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: My mom always said you rise up to or down to the level expected of you! #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 47 minutes ago @pattyjmchats That good to know. I'm writing upper MG, so I think it breaks down as a reference for the older grades. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 47 minutes ago @dianezahler @PBWorkshop That fair, but I think we turn to them too often as an easy way out! #mglitchat

DsBSC about 46 minutes ago too true! “@rachelnseigel: @michaelascottoMy mom always said you rise up to or down to the level expected of you! #mglitchat”

delzey about 46 minutes ago mid-chat topic reminder for us confuzled people who thought it was wednesday night? #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 46 minutes ago @ilanawaters: I know, but if you use words they don't understand/want to und, readers'll disengage...and U will lose them:) IMHO #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 46 minutes ago @JeanGiardina Ooo--me likey! Sounds like a great reference tool. #mglitchat

elissacruz about 46 minutes ago @dianezahler @rachelnseigel@PBWorkshop I was just going to say that. There is a need for those with learning disabilities. #Mglitchat

dianezahler about 46 minutes ago @JeanGiardina Synonyms, mostly. Sometimes for words that are too complex, sometimes for overused ones. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 46 minutes ago @delzey Complex language in MG!#mglitchat

ilanawaters about 46 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @michaelascotto "No one rises to low expectations." Ain't it the truth! #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 45 minutes ago I'm really having a great time with you guys! :) #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 45 minutes ago @matt_janacone Aww! And we r with you too! #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 45 minutes ago @dianezahler Targeted books for high interest, controlled language/length are important, and improving, but not trade market. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 45 minutes ago @PBWorkshop @dianezahler Yes- and I think they've become too trade market. Real purpose forgotten.#mglitchat

DsBSC about 45 minutes ago Leaving #mglitchat to pick up the best lady ever. Too bad they don't broadcast this stuff on radio!

kellandrewsPA about 44 minutes ago @delzey I'm just showing up too #mglitchat

kellypolark about 44 minutes ago I have a 10yo daughter that will yell from her bedroom, "What this word?" & spell it if she doesn't know the word. 1/2 #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 44 minutes ago @DsBSC Someday you'll get Twitter 2 your car! I think it was a movie maybe where u could get FB in your car.#mglitchat

ilanawaters about 44 minutes ago @pattyjmchats That my exact problem. I keep having to replace words to make them easier. But certain words I WANT to use. :-( #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 44 minutes ago @rachelnseigel I find kids avoid PBs as "baby" books, count "good readers as who can read the longest book, say big words. #mglitchat

delzey about 44 minutes ago @rachelnseigel ah, thanks. now complex according to whom? for MG readers still building vocabs isn't ALL language still complex? #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 44 minutes ago @ilanawaters @pattyjmchats I think you should use the words you want to use- but then, you're editors would proabably not agree! #mglitchat

elissacruz about 44 minutes ago Complex language should never trump story, though. The story is King (Queen). Language merely a duke or duchess. #Mglitchat

coachhays64 about 43 minutes ago @michaelascotto @rachelnseigel We talk about that all the time in coaching. Expect great things & believe in kids to do the work. #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 43 minutes ago @PBWorkshop: Though we do have to be aware of language + word/sentence and length for trades, too...#mglitchat

kellypolark about 43 minutes ago My point is it okay once in a while, but a reader doesn't want to do this often. 2/2 #Mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 43 minutes ago @delzey Good question. Complex for the intended age group. Beyond typical development? #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 43 minutes ago Books should encourage kids to read, give them the courage to chase their dreams and find their North.#mglitchat

kellandrewsPA about 43 minutes ago @PBWorkshop What the definition of "high interest" though? I get that practically it plot, action, etc. but interests differ #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 43 minutes ago @coachhays64 @michaelascotto A universal principle! #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 43 minutes ago I agree. :) RT @kellypolark: My point is it okay once in a while, but a reader doesn't want to do this often. 2/2#Mglitchat

dianezahler about 42 minutes ago @kellypolark We always yelled back, "Look it up!" Finally he discovered online dictionaries. #mglitchat

pattyjmchats about 42 minutes ago @ilanawaters: Just don't sacrifice substance...for style:) Someone smart said that. True in MG novels + word choice, etc. :) #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 42 minutes ago @kellandrewsPA @PBWorkshop Typically, High interest is considered high-action/fast-moving plot.#mglitchat

coachhays64 about 42 minutes ago @kellypolark I like it. Inquisitive minds. But, honestly, does it ever make her want to quit reading that particular book? #mglitchat

elissacruz about 42 minutes ago In other words, don't throw in complex language because you don't want to be seen as "dumbing it down." Language must fit story. #Mglitchat

kellypolark about 41 minutes ago As a mom, I appreciate her learning new words, but glad that it doesn't interrupt her flow of story often. 3/3#Mglitchat

delzey about 41 minutes ago @rachelnseigel so, again, i hated mg books that tried to meet me where i was, i wanted to read (& did) james bond novels #mglitchat

kellandrewsPA about 39 minutes ago @rachelnseigel I get that, but it sort of implies that other books are low interest. Diff interests for diff readers #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 39 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @pattyjmchats Sigh. Thus is my dilemma! But I will beta test with actual child-persons, so that will help. #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 39 minutes ago 5th graders at my kid school get points for finding a word-of-the-week in the wild. I used "bizarre" and the class went wild. #mglitchat

kellypolark about 39 minutes ago @coachhays64 Luckily she'll ask occasionally, not every night (depends on book). But it would stop her if was every other page #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 39 minutes ago RT @elissacruz: Complex language should never trump story, though. The story is King (Queen). Language merely a duke or duchess. #Mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 39 minutes ago @ilanawaters that was my next suugestion#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 39 minutes ago @delzey @rachelnseigel I love that thought re: books meeting you where you are vs where you want to be.#mglitchat

dianezahler about 38 minutes ago @kellandrewsPA: @rachelnseigel It just an education term used for books with lower-level vocabulary but on-level topics. #mglitchat

delzey about 38 minutes ago @kellandrewsPA "hi interest" gets bandied about but it was orig coined for books aimed at underperformaing readers, not just MG #mglitchat

lshullinger about 38 minutes ago @JeanGiardina lol #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 38 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty Too many "What is ____" can mean the book was "assigned", too, rather than self-selected. As in must be 100 pages #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 37 minutes ago Using complex language/subtext could come across as showing off. Turn off. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 37 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: Books should encourage kids to read, give them the courage to chase their dreams and find their North. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 37 minutes ago @delzey These days it still is code for "low test scores" or "not proficient" and don't think the kids don't know it. In HS, too. #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 36 minutes ago @lshullinger Proof that new vocab words can be fun! #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 36 minutes ago @delzey @kellandrewsPA Started out with teens- only recently seems like there is any for MG. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 36 minutes ago It about whether it SUITS story/not>@matt_janacone: Using complex language/subtext could come across as showing off. Turn off. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 36 minutes ago I tink so kids won't read because they think it work. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 35 minutes ago @kellypolark Sorry, I'm still learning internet vocab. Um, what does 2/2 and 3/3 mean? *blush* #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 35 minutes ago @matt_janacone And it misguided adults who make it that way. #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 35 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: RT @matt_janacone: Books should encourage kids to read, give them the courage to chase their dreams and find their North. #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 35 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Very true. #mglitchat

lshullinger about 35 minutes ago @PBWorkshop @DanyelleLeafty As a kid I don't recall ever enjoying an 'assigned' reading...ever #mglitchat

delzey about 35 minutes ago @PBWorkshop beg to differ, we knew those hi-interest book on sight - they have a look & sound - they were like the cheese touch #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 35 minutes ago @JeanGiardina Love it when a teacher finds ways to get kids to "notice" words and language/craft. THAT authentic learning! #mglitchat

kellypolark about 35 minutes ago @dianezahler Ha ha! I need a dictionary in her rm. She has a Nook, too. Can't remember if that has online dictionary like Kindle. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 34 minutes ago Complex language/subtext can give novels a bad name for kids who won't or don't want to read. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 34 minutes ago @delzey Not differing- they may as well have had dummy stickers on them. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 34 minutes ago @lshullinger That word "assigned" has a way of doing that.... #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 34 minutes ago I think Kindle/Nook is a clever way to get kids to read. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 34 minutes ago @Bec_AS @lshullinger I still hate required reading- automatically resent it! #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 34 minutes ago @Bec_AS @lshullinger I agree. "Assigned" is a buzz killer. #mglitchat

dianezahler about 33 minutes ago @kellypolark We have a dictionary in every room in the house. He refused to use them -- but he'd use the computer one! #mglitchat

kellypolark about 33 minutes ago @ilanawaters I first meant 1st tweet out of 2 (since my train of thought wasn't done in one) :) And then I threw in one more! :) #mglitchat

lshullinger about 33 minutes ago @Bec_AS doesn't it though? :-) #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 33 minutes ago @kellypolark @dianezahler My 12yo refuses to look them up- she just skips them and hopes to get the general point. #mglitchat

CandycaneClaus about 33 minutes ago When I was a kid, big words didn't stump me; it was dated expressions from when my parents (and the writer) were kids. #mglitchat

delzey about 33 minutes ago @PBWorkshop give kids a choice, tailor lessons so they apply to all books, and reading becomes more universal, less like "work" #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 32 minutes ago @delzey Also, the James Bond, adult reads *not porn* kids seek can't hurt, but is "fun" reading, no harm, no foul. Comics, too. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 32 minutes ago @delzey @PBWorkshop Freedom within a controlled environment. #mglitchat

elissacruz about 32 minutes ago Must go take care of a homework emergency. Before I do, wanted to let you know @MixedUpFiles is asking for library nominations... #Mglitchat

dianezahler about 32 minutes ago For me, level of complexity is a balancing act between author voice and readers' needs. #mglitchat

delzey about 32 minutes ago @PBWorkshop book-as-dunce-cap public shaming #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 32 minutes ago @rachelnseigel Inspiring kids to read starts with parents/home. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 32 minutes ago @CandycaneClaus That where historical fiction, science-fiction can be a challenge- as well as dialect, ethnic expressions, etc. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 31 minutes ago @matt_janacone Yep. Set a reading example.#mglitchat

michaelascotto about 31 minutes ago Nicely expressed. RT @dianezahler: For me, level of complexity is a balancing act between authors voice and readers needs. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 31 minutes ago @kellypolark Ah...thank you! Apparently I need online twitter dictionary! #mglitchat

elissacruz about 31 minutes ago The blog is giving away (hopefully) 100 MG titles to one library. Go nominate one! http://t.co/hyM7ql7z Gotta run. Bye all! #Mglitchat

elliefalcone about 31 minutes ago Exactly! RT @dianezahler: For me, level of complexity is a balancing act between author voice and reader needs. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 31 minutes ago Don't we all! RT @rachelnseigel: @Bec_AS@lshullinger I still hate required reading- automatically resent it!#mglitchat

ilanawaters about 30 minutes ago @CandycaneClaus Yes! I could never understand what my mom meant by "dungarees!" (sorry mom!)#mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 30 minutes ago @DanyelleLeafty @Bec_AS @lshullinger I'm a book nerd mom; I read my kids' assigned books. I'm excited, so they are too. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 30 minutes ago @PBWorkshop @Bec_AS @lshullingerNobody wants to be told what to do- especially in an activity that is supposed 2 be pleasurable! #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 30 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: RT @matt_janacone:@rachelnseigel Inspiring kids to read starts with parents/home.#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 30 minutes ago @JeanGiardina @Bec_AS @lshullingerThat the best kind of mom. :D #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 30 minutes ago As a screenwriter, I'd like to teach kids that their favorite cartoons/shows are written by screenwriters.#mglitchat

elliefalcone about 29 minutes ago @ilanawaters Dungarees is still used by some folks in some places. lol (inside joke) #mglitchat

delzey about 28 minutes ago @ilanawaters gotta take those dungarees to the hoosgow! #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 28 minutes ago @matt_janacone Absolutely. Mo Willems, Midas of Pigeon, Pig, and early PBs, had years of success on Sesame Street scripts first. #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 28 minutes ago @elliefalcone Oh crud. Sorry--I didn't mean to offend! But she grew up in the same place as me and I never heard it! #mglitchat

lshullinger about 28 minutes ago @JeanGiardina @DanyelleLeafty @Bec_ASI tried that once when my oldest had to read Rebecca ...he still didn't want to read it #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 28 minutes ago We need to convince kids that Books Are Magic Doors! not jails. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 28 minutes ago @JeanGiardina @DanyelleLeafty @Bec_AS@lshullinger I wish I could, but I can't keep up- I do read some of *her* non-school ones. #mglitchat

rjlackie about 27 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: RT @matt_janacone: As a screenwriter, I'd like to teach kids that their favorite cartoons/shows are written by screenwriters. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 27 minutes ago @matt_janacone It all about the attitude that we present to kids. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 27 minutes ago @rachelnseigel @Bec_AS @lshullingerAssigned is a synonym for buzzkill? #mgLitchat

JeanGiardina about 27 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: RT @matt_janacone: We need to convince kids that Books Are Magic Doors! not jails.#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 27 minutes ago @PBWorkshop @Bec_AS @lshullinger LOL! Yep- even to an avid reader! #mgLitchat

elliefalcone about 26 minutes ago @ilanawaters Ohh, noooo. No offense at all. It really is an inside joke. #mglitchat

kellypolark about 26 minutes ago @Bec_AS @dianezahler I imagine she probably skips some too if she can get the point of the sentence. Which is good. #mglitchat

lshullinger about 26 minutes ago @matt_janacone I agree! :-) #mglitchat

delzey about 26 minutes ago funny thing about language, sometimes outdated words can sound fresh to young ears. this is where the craft of writing comes in #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 26 minutes ago @delzey I'd LOL, but sadly, I sooo did not get that. *hangs head in shame* #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 26 minutes ago @delzey Good point. #mglitchat

Bec_AS about 26 minutes ago Speaking of reading non-assigned, I'm reading aloud the 1st Harry Potter book to my 12yo, and she is waiting for me- g'nite all! #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 25 minutes ago @Bec_AS G'night! Enjoy! #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 25 minutes ago I'd like to go to a middle school and show kids what a mid-grade script looks like. #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 25 minutes ago @delzey @PBWorkshop Doesn't do anyone any good. Focus should be on allowing the kids freedom to find books in their strike zone. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 25 minutes ago Now the dog is giving me attitude! Does he not understand that #Mglitchat isn't finished yet?

ilanawaters about 25 minutes ago @elliefalcone Well now you have to tell me what it is! *hands on hips* #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 24 minutes ago Word up! RT @matt_janacone: We need to convince kids that Books Are Magic Doors! not jails. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 24 minutes ago @matt_janacone Actually, pubbing the scripts for Wimpy Kid for example would b awesomely cool!#mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 24 minutes ago @delzey So true! Quirky and funny writing can be very memorable. #mglitchat

delzey about 23 minutes ago @PBWorkshop assigned = boring, work, meaning ≠ fun. choice = discovery, honoring & respecting reader desire to read #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 23 minutes ago @matt_janacone Do it, please! Contact MS librarian & ask if you can come in! (If you can find a MS that still has a #librarian) #mglitchat

dianezahler about 23 minutes ago @kellypolark If she sees the word often enough in context, she'll end up knowing its meaning. #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 22 minutes ago @coachhays64 I agree- when a kid insists on reading something they truly can't handle, I get them an audio book w/ matching text. #mglitchat

lshullinger about 22 minutes ago @delzey @PBWorkshop Exactly! I think so many more kids would read if given 'choice' #mglitchat

elliefalcone about 22 minutes ago @rachelnseigel My cats are staring at me. They sense these things... #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 22 minutes ago @dianezahler @kellypolark Exactly! Once you get the context, you'll recognize the word. #mglitchat

DsBSC about 22 minutes ago Is #mglitchat still going?

michaelascotto about 21 minutes ago Well, this has been a great talk, but I've got to go retrieve my lovely wife from work. Night all! #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 21 minutes ago @elliefalcone He quite the jealous little bugger sometimes! Amazed he hasn't tried to eat my computer!#mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 21 minutes ago @DsBSC 3 minutes left. :) #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 21 minutes ago @michaelascotto For about 3 minutes more!#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 21 minutes ago @dianezahler Or approximate meaning. I did that a lot, but eventually had to learn to ask/look up in order to communicate gooder. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 21 minutes ago @PBWorkshop You know what? I should! I will! #mglitchat

elliefalcone about 20 minutes ago @rachelnseigel Don't say that out loud. It might give him ideas. #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 20 minutes ago A kid who reads isd a kid who succeeds!!! :)#mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 20 minutes ago @elliefalcone LOL! By the look he gave me while chewing his chew toy just now, I'd say it already crossed his mind! #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 20 minutes ago RT @matt_janacone: RT @matt_janacone: A kid who reads isd a kid who succeeds!!! :) #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 19 minutes ago @matt_janacone That would be a great library event, too! @PBWorkshop #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 19 minutes ago It was AWESOME chatting with you guys tonight! I hope top gain you as followers! :) #mglitchat

delzey about 19 minutes ago "When I use a word" Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone "it means just what I choose it to mean, neither more nor less." #mglitchat

dianezahler about 19 minutes ago @PBWorkshop You mean "more good," right? #mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 19 minutes ago @matt_janacone Please do. And if you have a no thank you the first time, try again, and again. You be a hero!#mglitchat

delzey about 19 minutes ago "The question is," said Alice, "whether you can make words mean so many different things." #mglitchat

ilanawaters about 19 minutes ago Goodbye, everyone! EXCELLENT topic. Thank you hosts! Let do this again soon...like, next week!#mglitchat

delzey about 19 minutes ago "The question is," said Humpty Dumpty, "which is to be master - - that all." #mglitchat

DanyelleLeafty about 18 minutes ago @dianezahler *hearts Alice in Wonderland*#mglitchat

PBWorkshop about 18 minutes ago @dianezahler Yep, or betterer. #mglitchat

JeanGiardina about 18 minutes ago RT @delzey: RT @delzey: "The question is," said Alice, "whether you can make words mean so many different things." #mglitchat

matt_janacone about 18 minutes ago @PBWorkshop I'd like to keep you up to date with that :) #mglitchat

coachhays64 about 17 minutes ago @delzey @PBWorkshop "Go rake leaves" is work, but "Go make a pile of leaves and jump in them" is fun. Virtually same end result. #mglitchat

rachelnseigel about 17 minutes ago #Mglitchat how time flies! Thanks for a gr8 chat everybody!

PBWorkshop about 17 minutes ago Muchos thankyousos! RT@ilanawaters: G'bye, everyone! EXCELLENT topic. Thank you hosts! Lets do this again soon...like, next week! #mglitchat

DsBSC about 16 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: #Mglitchat how time flies! Thanks for a gr8 chat everybody!

PBWorkshop about 16 minutes ago @matt_janacone Please do! If you run into trouble finding a good match, message me and I'll look for contacts for you. #mglitchat

delzey about 16 minutes ago @coachhays64 proof: language & presentation is everything #mglitchat

lshullinger about 16 minutes ago @rachelnseigel Thank YOU! Was lots of fun!#mglitchat

CandycaneClaus about 16 minutes ago Thx 4 the great #mglitchat everybody! My debut YA(/upper-mg) book drops next Tuesday.http://t.co/0Xk06n8Q

matt_janacone about 15 minutes ago @PBWorkshop Wow. Thanks. I will :)#mglitchat

matt_janacone about 14 minutes ago Expect a follow :) #mglitchat

DsBSC about 14 minutes ago RT @rachelnseigel: RT @matt_janacone: A kid who reads isd a kid who succeeds!!! :) #mglitchat

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