ELA Period 1/2
Things We Will Be Working On:
Whole Group:
Students using the Read 180 ReaL Book will be immersed in a high-quality research-based reading and language instruction program that:
•. Provides explicit, systematic instruction necessary to build deep comprehension of literary and informational texts
• Builds students’ content knowledge with Workshops that include carefully sequenced text
• Encourages meaning making through close reading and critical thinking
• Gives students a toolbox for writing success with research-based writing strategies
Weekly Terms and Vocabulary Information:
Weekly terms are chosen from students’ leveled reading stories or from assessments that have been given to your child. We will be working on multiple meaning words, prefixes, suffixes, root words, synonyms/antonyms, and figurative language such as idioms/hyperboles/similes/metaphors, over the course of the school year. I expect students to be able to explain the meaning of the terms and use them appropriately in sentences. Please check your child's homework folder for their weekly terms.
Vocabulary terms are also chosen from our whole group stories. The terms are essential words for understanding the concepts in the books. I do not require students to be able to spell the words from memory, but I do expect them to be able to recognize them in sign and print and explain in their own words what they mean. Please practice these words with your child. Constant practice and repetition will lead to success!
Other Programs We Use:
Bilingual Grammar Curriculum (BGC):
The BGC program is a newly adopted curriculum for DMS. The curriculum is designed specifically for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. The BGC program focuses on building bridges between a visual language (ASL) and one that is linear (written English). The sequence of instruction is based on the concept that successful learning takes advantage of moving from the "known to the new". The framework is characterized by small, sequential steps that build on previous skills in complimentary and comprehensive ways. You can learn more about the program by clicking on the link.
100 Book Challenge:
The program provides reading materials at students’ independent reading levels. In order to improve reading skills, students must practice reading. The 100 Book Challenge program allows students to read books that are fun and easy enough for them to enjoy the stories while learning new vocabulary words. The more they read the more they improve their reading skills! Students read 30 minutes in school (15 in reading and 15 during another course) and 30 minutes in the dorm/ or home. They will also need to read for 60 minutes over the weekend. Students receive one signature on their reading log (in the back of their planner) for every 15 minutes they read. Each week, students should have a total of 22 lines signed on their reading logs. This is a required part of our curriculum and students will be graded on their signature logs. Students will be also rewarded for their hard work with special prizes provided by our reading specialist, Yvonne Samuels. You can learn more about the program by clicking on the link.
Reading Counts is an independent reading program for Grades K-12 which combines reading practice and software-based reading assessment. Instructionally flexible, mastery focused, and professionally written, RC! is the program PROVEN to develop reading skills, help raise test scores, and motivate students to achieve reading success. You can read more about the program by clicking here.
Achieve 3000 is an online reading program that has students reading nonfiction articles and responding to comprehension questions based on the articles. Based on decades of scientific research, Achieve3000's proven and patented method of online differentiated instruction engages all learners at their individual reading levels and constantly challenges them to improve their literacy skills. You can read more about the program by clicking here.
IXL is an online program that allows students to practice skills on a variety of subject areas and topics. Based on student work in the curriculum and the Real-Time Diagnostic, IXL creates a personalized action plan for each student to work on to help them fill knowledge gaps and build on their current understanding. You can learn more about this program by clicking here.
Other Class Information:
Reading Homework:
1. Students are required to read for 30 minutes every night. For every 15 minutes they read, they get a line signed on their planner. Each night students should have at least 2 lines signed.
2. Students are also responsible for practicing their vocabulary/spelling terms every night. Students need to have a signature by an adult/staff to prove they practiced their words. Students may also be given practice worksheets to complete each night.
3. Students will occasionally have worksheets related to the comprehension skill or story that we are working on for the week.
How to Help Your Child With Reading:
1. Read with your child. Take turns reading parts of the story together.
2. Talk about words they don't know. Look up the signs on ASLpro.com, signsavvy.com, lifeprint.com, handspeak.com
3. Ask questions about the story.
-Ask more in depth questions rather than yes and no questions.
4. Act out parts of the story. Guess which part of the story they are acting out.
Course description and standards:
For course description/standards: click here