Independent reading is one major component of
our ILA class. Students may choose an independent reading book from the
classroom library, Media Center, E.B. Public Library, Scholastic Book Catalog,
bookstore, or from home. Students will carry their independent reading book to
and from school each day in a 2 gallon Zip-loc bag. Students are expected to
read for at least 30 minutes each night and log the pages that they read on
their Independent Reading bookmark. Bookmarks are collected each Monday. New
bookmarks are also distributed on Mondays.
In class, students participate in Reading
Workshop. Reading Workshop consists of a 5 to 10 minute lesson a selected
topic. Then, students read independently for approximately 20 minutes. While
students are reading, the teacher conferences with selected students. At this
time, the teacher may also work with small reading groups.
Students are expected to write letters based on
the unit of study discussed in class. The student is expected to apply a
reading topic to his/her independent reading book. Students will write three
letters each unit: at the beginning of
the unit, mid-way, and upon completion of the unit. The first two letters will
be reviewed and feedback will be given. The final letter, along with the
student's progress and dedication throughout the unit, will be graded.