Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. Is it really important for my child to read everyday?
2. May I volunteer my help?
3. When may I begin volunteering?
4. Why does my child bring home copies of the Phonics Library books?
5. Why do you play card and dice games in class?
6. What time is recess, lunch, and dismissal?
7. How much sleep does a first grader need?

Is it really important for my child to read everyday?

YES, YES, YES!!!  Did you think my answer would be anything different?!  In 
addition to having your child practice reading every night, it's extremely 
important that your child hears an adult read fluently with natural speech.  
This allows your child to hear intonation and pitch, character voices, etc.  
Also, it's a great bonding time for you and your child.  Now what are you 
waiting for...go curl up with your first grader and a good book...a blanket 
might make it cozy, too!  Happy Reading!

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May I volunteer my help?

YES, YES, YES...we love and encourage volunteers.  Parents are welcome to 
volunteer in the classroom, do "grunt" work in the workroom, and/or take 
work home.  We do ask that you be sensitive to the needs of every student.  
As you volunteer, you will see that every child and his/her needs are 
different.  For example, some students read well and some are just learning 
to read.  Please keep information you learn about students confidential and 
in the classroom.  Thank you!

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When may I begin volunteering?

For those people who have never volunteered in an Irvine Unified School 
District classroom before, you will need to fill out paperwork in the office 
prior to volunteering.  We will begin voulunteers after Back to School Night.

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Why does my child bring home copies of the Phonics Library books?

We use these paper books for a couple of reasons.  #1 students get to keep 
these books and reveiw them at home instead of turning the book in to 
class.  #2 a paper book allows us to mark up the words.  Look at your 
child's book to understand what we mean.
Students KEEP THE PAPER BOOK at home.

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Why do you play card and dice games in class?

We play a lot of card/dice games to review and teach adding/subtracting of 
basic math facts in class.  Using cards takes the boredom out of repetive 
practice necessary to master strategies and concepts.  Please see our games 
section of this website.  Enjoy playing!

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What time is recess, lunch, and dismissal?

Recess is 9:35-9:55
Lunch is 11:30-12:10
Dismissal on Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri is at 2:10, Wednesday dismissal is at 1:25.

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How much sleep does a first grader need?

According to http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/yourchild/sleep.htm#childrens 
different people need different amounts of sleep.  According to this 
website, 
the average amount of sleep for a 5,6 & 7 year old is 11 hours.

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