English
Homework
The students should spend at least 20 minutes at home a day reading books. Students are encouraged to use their library cards and check out books from the school library or choose a book from our class. To insure books are appropriate you can have your child read one page to you. If they cannot pronounce more than 3-5 words the book is too difficult. The ideal book should have a few words that are not immediately known but not too many. If your child struggles the most with comprehension it is better to have books that are not a struggle to read. To build comprehension ask your child simple questions about the book they are reading.
Some great questions to ask:
Who is the main character?
Where is the book taking place?
Who are the other characters in the book?
Do you think the book is taking place now, in the past, or in the future?
***Letting them read out loud to you helps you come up with great questions. Remember keep it basic:)
Students need to go to www.spellingcity.com once a week and sign on to my account (Renee Russell) to study spelling words for each month. All student have been taught how to navigate the Website in order to reach the games using the current words of the month. Class work
We are currently reading Don Johnson books in an effort to increase comprehension. Books are chosen by reading ability and class votes. We typically have three reading groups. Student are required to read independently and listen to the text on the computer. Students then answer basic comprehension questions. Students are also writing letters to recommend their book to a friend. Other assignments include drawing pictures and summarizing chapters.
We will also perform Readers Theaters and read popular adapted books through out the year to increase interest and enjoyment.
