Beginning of the School Year Information:

In third grade, students will be a part of a reading workshop environment.  One of our main efforts during reading is to create independent readers.  This means several things.  First, students will read with increasing stamina (eventually reading for up to 45 minutes by themselves by the end of the school year).  Second, students will learn how to problem-solve unfamiliar words- whether it is how to pronounce the word or figuring out what the word means.  Third, students will learn about comprehension of complex and simple texts.

Workshop Launch:

During this 15-20 minute section of time, students are typically seated on the classroom carpet with the teacher.  The teacher introduces a learning concept using a text that has been previously read.  Students are given opportunities to practice using the skills or concepts presented, and an "anchor chart" is created by teacher and students to help remind students of the strategies learned during the lesson.

The Workshop- 90 minutes!

The goal of the workshop meets many, many points.  First, students will have an opportunity to practice the skill or concept introduced during the launch.  Students are expected to silent read throughout the workshop.  ReadWorks.org will be used to check for comprehension of student-leveled reading passages.  Students will also use Compass Learning (Odyssey), which is an online tutorial package which aligns with student goals, based upon the NWEA testing. Sometimes penmanship will be practiced during this time, as well as spelling patterns/ word work. This year, students will also be given a station to work on independent, individual work.  While students are working on their stations, small groups of students will be working with Ms. Nehmer on specific skills.  Each group that is reading at or below grade level will be seen daily, while students who are more fluent readers might be seen two or three times a week.  On Fridays, students work on their stations while some students are pulled aside to complete progress monitoring (short assessments to see if progress is being made).  It is my intention to ensure that each student (regardless of ability) gets to read or get assessed with me every two weeks.

What if my child is struggling with reading?

*Students who read more tend to read stronger.  I recommend that your child read to you at least 20 minutes every night (I read every night as well!).
*Don't rush into chapter books.  It is okay to read picture books.  
*If there are five or more mistakes on the first page.... chances are it's too hard!
*It is okay to read a book again, especially if one notices new things.
*Talk to me, I want to help and may have more tips for you!