One of the many enchanting stories we read as a class, is "The Boxcar Children." Like the others, students have great examples to follow in the lives of these characters. Reinforcing the human and spiritual virtues we all should strengthen, is part of our reading program. Reading aloud, predictions, summarizing the main idea, etc. are part of the many lessons we draw from these chapter books.
A big step up from second grade, is that third graders are entering into the world of chapter books. They are reading them independently as well. Our Accelerated Reader program is in play, and this helps asses student's fluency as well as foster the love of reading. In our class we chart by the number of pages they read, rather than a point system. So, if students are at different reading levels, this evens the playing field and takes off some pressure in this year of big transition. Above is our charting system. This encourages them to be ravenous "Reading Rabbits."
*Students should spend some time reading at home too. Make it a special time for them. Build a tent with a bed sheet or blanket for their reading time. Have a picnic outside in the beautiful Southern California weather:) Maybe every Friday night, grandma or their aunt/uncle could pop some popcorn while they read with your child. Don't underestimate the power of reading to your child. Children learn a great deal by simply hearing "how" sentences are spoken/read. Adults have a better understanding of the intonation. Reading levels go up naturally from this alone.
A big step up from second grade, is that third graders are entering into the world of chapter books. They are reading them independently as well. Our Accelerated Reader program is in play, and this helps asses student's fluency as well as foster the love of reading. In our class we chart by the number of pages they read, rather than a point system. So, if students are at different reading levels, this evens the playing field and takes off some pressure in this year of big transition. Above is our charting system. This encourages them to be ravenous "Reading Rabbits."
*Students should spend some time reading at home too. Make it a special time for them. Build a tent with a bed sheet or blanket for their reading time. Have a picnic outside in the beautiful Southern California weather:) Maybe every Friday night, grandma or their aunt/uncle could pop some popcorn while they read with your child. Don't underestimate the power of reading to your child. Children learn a great deal by simply hearing "how" sentences are spoken/read. Adults have a better understanding of the intonation. Reading levels go up naturally from this alone.