We will be doing READING/WRITING WORKSHOP which will use some Daily 5 strategies!
Daily 5
Read to Self 
The best way to become a better reader is by practicing each day, with "Good Fit" books that the students choose.
Work on Writing 
Just like reading, the best way to become a better writer is by practicing writing each day.
Word Work 
Expanded vocabulary and correct spelling allow for more fluent reading and writing. It speeds up the ability to comprehend what is read and get thinking down on paper.
Listen to Reading 
Hearing good examples of literature and fluent reading expands your vocabulary, builds stamina and helps you become a better reader.
Read to Someone 
Partner reading allows for more time to practice strategies, helping to build fluency, checking for understanding, hear their own voice, and provides time to share a variety of texts.
I PICK "Good Fit Books"
The students are taught from day one about choosing and selecting books that are just right for their reading level. They are called "Good Fit Books".
1.I pick a book
2.P urpose (Why do I want to read this book? For fun? For information? )
3.I nterest (Does this book interest me?)
4.C omprehend (Can I comprehend/understand what I'm reading?)
5.K now (Do I know most of the words?)
Three Ways to Read a Book
1. Read the pictures
2. Read the words
3. Retell the story
Check for Understanding
This is a comprehension strategy that teaches children to stop frequently and check or monitor their understanding of what they are reading.
Often as beginning readers, children are so aware of reading accurately that they forget to take time to think about what they are reading and check to see if they understand the text.
This vital strategy is not only one of the first we introduce, but it is also one we model frequently throughout the year.
When students are Reading to Someone, one partner holds a check mark card with comprehension questions printed on it. The students work together as coaches and partners to check for understanding. Then they switch, the other student reads as their buddy holds the check mark card. Each student has an opportunity to check for understanding.
Book Baskets
Each student has a book baggie/basket. Each book baggie/basket has the student's name and number on the front, so they can find their basket easily and put back easily after each rotation of the Daily 5. Their book baggie/basket contains 8-10 "Good Fit Books" that they have chosen. Our class "Shops for Books" every other Friday morning. They LOVE this part and they can't wait to choose new books and magazines each week! This builds a sense of responsibility and provides these young readers with a way to monitor their own reading abilities!!!
