High Standards.
The NYS Next Generation ELA Standards set a bar high for third grade students. Therefore, we place a strong emphasis on reading and writing in our classroom. Below are some of the books we are currently reading during shared reading, close reading, advanced reading group, and guided reading. Additionally, students are given the opportunity to read texts of their choice during silent reading time.
Vocabulary Word Wall - Our new words.
arctic: extremely cold, snowy region of the North Pole explore: to search out or discover something harrowing: distressing; making you worry hazardous: dangerous nation: a country or people group outcome: the end result pandemonium: chaos; lots of confusion raspy: sounding very hoarse or rough responsible: reliable or dependable volunteer: offering help freely (without pay) |
In Writer's Workshop, students have been learning about persuasive writing. Student had a choice about what type of persuasive writing they wanted to do for the assignment. As a class we voted, and the students decided to write a letter to our principal, Mr. Waller. Because of schedule conflicts, our students were only going to have ten minutes of recess time. In their persuasive letter, our class explained how much they would benefit from additional recess time. They hand-delivered the letter, and read it to the principal. The response was exactly what they were hoping for: Mr. Waller rewarded them for their hard work, by allowing a schedule change, giving our students the full thirty minutes of recess time. Way to go, class!
|
Reading at Home
Though your child reads at school everyday, I cannot emphasize the value of you reading with your child at home. Whether a short read together before bedtime, a morning newspaper article, or reading books on the weekend--reading with your child is a beneficial way to exercise their minds (and yours too!) Read to them or have them read to you, take turns, however you choose to do so. Ask your child about what they are reading at school. Ask them to summarize stories or explain the main idea. Getting your child to talk and think about the books they have read will help them make connections with them text, and stimulate learning. If you are able, check out your local library for an exciting family trip. Happy reading! |