Reading Update

We are now at the end of Theme 4 in our reading textbook. That puts us in a review mode. Last week and this week students have not been assigned Spelling words. You should be seeing vocabulary words however for the two stories we are reading in the textbook; Alejandro's Gift and The Living Desert. I analyzed the grades in this theme based on spelling and reading skills. Based on that data we are reviewing fact and opinion, compare and contrast and test taking skills.

Students will have their vocabulary test on Thursday February 26 along with their selection test. On Friday students will take the Theme 4 test.

As far as their reading habits grade you should have noticed a weekly reading log and a book project so far. This week starting today you should see your child bringing home one passage a night from the FCAT released test. They will write their answers on the answer sheet that was given. By the end of the weekend they should have competed all 5 stories on the released test. This also will be counted toward their reading habits grade.

The FCAT is in two weeks. Be sure your child is practicing by doing their homework everynight.
Until next time,
R. O'Steen

Reading Update

Well we are a little past the half way mark. I can't believe how the year is flying by! You should have noticed some changes in what your child has been bringing home for reading logs. They no longer have a nightly log in sheet. You should see your child logging in the weekly story from the textbook on a reading log in their reading folder each week. You should also be seeing your child working on a book project as part of their reading habits grade. It will be in either a turquoise or purple construction paper folder depending on which homeroom your child is in. They are to have the project completed by the end of the nine weeks. There is a paper in the front explaining the requirements as well as a signature.

Another project we have started is a book publishing project. This is part of their writing grade this nine weeks. Ask your child what their book is going to be about. When your child is finished with their kit they will bring home a slip with an offer to buy a copy of their book. You do not have to purchase a book, they will receive a free copy of their book even if you do not purchase. All you have to do is check the box "no I'm not interested" and sign the slip and the company will publish your child's book. I have done this project for the last 2 years and it has been a great experience.

Lastly, the FCAT is coming soon. Read with your child everyday. Rereading the stories in the textbook is good or books from the library are great too!

Until next time,
R. O'Steen