Literacy Lessons
Throughout the week, students will be engaged in a wide variety of literacy lessons during our reading and writing workshops, phonics instruction, independent reading, and read aloud times.
During our reading and writing workshop times, students participate in a mini-lesson and then have opportunities to practice and apply their understanding through independent, partner, and whole group work and projects.
Our district uses the Fundations program as the basis for our phonics program. We also supplement with other lessons and materials as needed.
Our literacy lessons are frequently integrated with other content areas, such as global citizenship, science, math, and the arts.
Students may also participate in literacy intervention lessons with Liz Bevins and Cathie Ely if needed.
Building Reading Habits at Home:
I encourage students to read for 30-40 minutes or more at least every other day to build reading stamina, strategy use, and their love of reading. Reading can include independent reading, shared reading, or listening to read alouds or audiobooks.
Many of our classroom books and magazines are available to be "checked out" to be read at home. Students can also take out books each week during our library "book pick" time.
Golden Dome Nominee Books and Book Club
4th graders will be able to participate in our after school EMES Book Clubs this year. Throughout the year, we will have several book clubs for students in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade, each based on a selected Golden Dome nominee book. We will announce the chosen books in advance to give students time to read the books. Each 3/4 classroom will have at least one copy of the book with additional copies available through the school library and as audiobooks on Sora. At times, teachers may read aloud the book to the whole class.
Students are encouraged to read as many of the Golden Dome nominees as possible. At the end of the year, students who have read 5 or more nominated books can participate in the statewide voting at our EMES Book Club Voting Party to help choose the next Vermont Golden Dome winner. At the voting party, we will also recognize 4th-6th grade students who have read all 25 books and play a fun quote game.
3rd and 4th graders are welcome to read as many books as possible from the nominee list. Parents should just be aware that Golden Dome nominee books are selected for students in 4th through 8th grades, so some of the books may be challenging or involve deeper or intense themes or content.
Here is a link to the 2026-2027 Golden Dome Nominees and the Golden Dome Book Award website that has a drop down menu with descriptions and grade levels for each selection.
(Sorry, 3rd graders, you have to wait to participate until next year.)