English Literature/English Composition
Parents/Guardians,
We have been spending a lot of time learning about how a reader can monitor his/her comprehension as he/she reads. Any time we read during class, I require students to highlight and make notes in the margin. If a reader only highlights, he will not remember why he highlighted when he returns to the text in the future. Making notes for your future self is crucial! If a student comes upon something unfamiliar, he should highlight it and write a question mark. The student can ask questions and/or look it up after he finishes reading. Finally, students should finish each section by telling what it was about in his/her own words. 2-3 sentences should suffice.
I ask that you try to get your student to use these reading strategies in other subject areas as well. I can guarantee you will see an increase in achievement. If a student cannot write in their textbook, you can have them fold a piece of notebook paper in half and place it to the side of the book. In one column, he can write the page number. In the other, he can write important words/passages, vocabulary, the main idea, unfamiliar or confusing things, etc. Reading Strategies
In addition to learning about how to be a better reader, we learned some academic vocabulary and roots. Students created 4-square organizers that will serve as study guides when preparing for a future test. Click on the link to view the vocabulary: Unit 1 Academic Vocabulary
This week we will perform a close read on the launch text, "Grounded." After reading the text, students will complete stations to help deepen their understanding.
Thursday and Friday will be spent in the computer lab completing the mandated Classroom Diagnostic Testing.
Please note that we will have a reading quiz every fifth day. Students can study their reading bell ringers to prepare.
