As mentioned at Curriculum Night, we First Grade uses a Reading Workshop model for reading instruction. It begins with a whole-group mini-lesson in which we learn reading habits and learn to think like readers. Here are some of what we have focused on so far:
* Reading memories
* Favorite books
* Favorite topics to read
* Being a book lover by caring for books
* Using the library
* Read to self
* Good reading habits
* 3 Ways to Read a Book: Read the pictures, read the words, and retell the story.
* How to choose just-right books
* Building reading stamina
* Stepping back into our reading when we get distracted
* Choosing a reading spot
* Making a plan for reading
* Shopping for books
After our mini-lesson, students go out to practice what they have learned. This is what it looks like:
Looks comfortable!
Reading the whole time.
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Cool reading spot!
You also can notice that she has a "plan" for her reading. She has stacked her books in order of what she plans to read. Then as she completes them, she puts them back in her book box.
This week, we have begun to learn how to Buddy Read. We learned to sit EEKK (Elbow to Elbow, Knee to Knee) with our buddy, so we can both see and read the book. We learned this poem:
Elbow to Elbow
Knee to Knee
I read to you
You read to me.
Elbow to Elbow
Knee to Knee
Book in the middle
So we both can see!
Each day, students will do both read to self and buddy reading. While they read, I confer with readers to deliver teaching points that fit what each reader needs. We may work on word-solving strategies, self-monitoring for reading accuracy, or have comprehension discussions. During this time, I also pull small groups to deliver guided reading instruction.
At the end of our workshop, we gather back together to share how we worked on our reading habits, strategies, and thinking.
So, how can you support your child at home? Use that daily 20 minute reading time to reinforce these reading habits at home. Here are some ideas:
* At least one day a week, have your child read to self. Talk to your child about building his or her reading stamina - maybe use a timer!
* Go to the library to "book shop" for just-right books!
A just-right book is a book that is at a reading level that helps your child to grow as a reader. The books should not be too easy that your child can read every word fluently and does not need to do much thinking to understand the book. The books should also not be too hard that your child struggles over many words (so reads very slowly) and struggles to understand the book. Here is an article and some images that may help you:
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