We focused a lot on classroom routines and will continue to develop routines and expectations throughout the weeks in order to build a strong learning community.
On the first day of school we read "First Day Jitters," a story that talks about how we all get nervous for the first day of school - even teachers! Through this story I also introduced our first reading comprehension strategy (Check for understanding). When you read with your child I encourage you to help them use this strategy - pause and ask "do I understand what just happened?" "what is the author trying to tell me?" Asking these questions and modeling that all readers use these strategies is critical in building comprehension and also confidence in reading.
We talked about and practiced reading to self. The students chose spots around the room where they could read successfully to themselves and they learned about the 3 ways to read books (read the pictures, read the words, retell the story). Just like with running, or physical activity, reading takes stamina. The students will continue to read to self in short increments to help build their stamina and turn them into voracious readers!
Looking forward to a great full week of school this week!
