This is an exciting year with a new schedule and new classroom practices. We have sixty minutes in class time which will be divided up into four primary chunks of Silent Reading, Skills/Strategies Instruction, Group/Partner Practice, and Independent Work Time.

During the first of this year, while your student will be getting used to the new schedule and class routines, we will be assessing his/her reading abilities utilizing a variety of assessments. We will use our findings to individualize your student's lessons on skills and strategies.

Key Practices Being Utilized:Independent Reading - Your child will be picking out a library book for nightly independent reading. The amount of out of class reading should be for a minimum of 20 minutes each night. Students will discuss their reading with the teacher. They will be graded on an average using quiz scores or summary reports. Also, starting second quarter, a log will be sent home each week which will require a parent signature each night to enable you to help the student monitor their reading habits and book choice. This log will need to be returned at the last day of each week for 10 points.

Folders - Students will keep a folder which will contain all the elements and notes taught in class. This folder will be kept in the white binder along with the Literature homework folder.

Vocabulary - Students will keep an individual word chart in their portfolio which will list words given in class, interesting words they would like to learn, and words from other classes. Grades will be given based on projects and quizzes.

Journal - Students will be expected to write about and respond to the topics being covered in class, quotes, reading strategies, etc. Topics include but are not limited to teacher given topics, strategies and skills focus, and independent reading questions, connections, and thoughts. The journal is kept in the classroom.

Centers - At times activities will be assigned during independent work time. Students will have one week to complete these activities and turn them in for a grade.

Teacher Log - Documentation of student learning, individual strategies and skills learned, partner/group work, and conferencing notes/goals.

We are trying to individualize your child's classroom learning and tailor it to their specific needs. Since the methods will be new to the classroom, we expect changes to continually improve the classroom learning experience. We ask for your patience in this endeavor.