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just keep reading
Mrs. Burke is a firm believer in the importance of fostering a LOVE for reading at a young age. In first grade, students will learn lots of new skills and strategies that will help them become successful, life-long readers. Please encourage your child to read for 15-20 minutes every day at home. Here are some things to expect this year about reading in first grade...
Why is reading so important?
Reading Strategies to use at Home
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Say the first sound of the word. This may give you a clue.
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Tap out each sound in the word, then try blending the sounds.
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Look for word chunks that we have learned.
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Try a long vowel sound or a short vowel sound. Which one makes sense?
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Ask yourself if it looks like a word you know, if it makes sense, and if it sounds right.
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Be persistent! Don't give up, even when it feels hard!
Rainbow sight Words
Learning high frequency words is an important building block in a child's ability to read. Mastering a large number of high frequency words allows students to read fluently and focus their attention on making sense of what they are reading. In first grade, we use Rainbow Sight Words to make reading these words more fun. We teach students that some parts of these words can be sounded out, while other parts have to be learned by heart. You may notice that we mark sight words with a heart to help us remember the part we have to memorize.
This year,Your child will bring home a sight word book with various colored lists. As your child masters each color, you can continue practicing new lists. Your child will be assessed at school, where he/she will color in each successful attempt. Click the link below to learn more!
Reading Logs
Each evening (Monday-Thursday) students will bring home a weekly reading log and their book pouch. Students' book pouches will be labeled to help them select texts that are "just right" for their reading level. The reading log will focus on a comprehension skill we are practicing for the week. Students will practice completing the reading log at school with Mrs. Burke, and eventually will be expected to complete it independently at home after reading a story of their choice. This is a great way for students to apply their skills at home!
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