We have begun an author study unit! We are reading the work of the wonderfully talented Patricia Polacco. Students will be reading books by Patricia, listening to her work at our listening center, and enjoying a read aloud. Her work is amazing! Our reading work is directly connected to the students work in writing class, where they are writing realistic fiction stories. Additionally, we are learning about how context clues help us to learn about unknown words. Check out Patricia's website below to learn more.
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I am excited to watch and hear about the excitement for reading. Students are cheering when it is independent reading time, and they are starting to select more challenging books. This is great! The research says that in order to become a better reader, you must simply practice it. Also, in addition to that, in order to complete the 40 Book challenge students should be trying to complete at least one chapter book a week. This is a rigorous challenge as students select more challenging books.
As students start to grow as independent readers, they will likely enjoying going off to their room for some quiet reading. This is a great thing, but in addition to the act of reading in their head, it is important for them to continue to read out loud. It might be helpful to have them read out loud at least once a week. Students might enjoy reading to a pet, a younger or older sibling, or even a distant relative over the phone. Try to keep it fun, and for short periods of time. Additionally, students might enjoy reading their chapter books with you. You can use the strategy of "I read a page, you read a page." This helps students practice their fluency, hear you reading fluently, as well as helps to engage in meaningful conversation about the text. Another suggestion that helps to develop fluency is to read poetry with your child. Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky have some great anthologies. Encourage your child to read the poem several times, and then perform it for someone in your family. Fun, fast, and beneficial. Going on a family trip? Check out an audiobook from the library. This is a great way to listen to fluent readers, and build your child's depth of knowledge about books from a variety of genres. Have a wonderful week, and take a moment for yourself to read! :) Mrs. Schall |
Mrs. SchallI teach 4th grade at Weatherbee School in Hampden, Maine. I am always up for a good adventure, whether in a good book or in real life. Archives
February 2017
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