page contents

Reader's Workshop

Mini Lesson: 10-15 Minutes

The teacher will select a book or text that is related to the reading strategy that will be introduced to students. The teacher uses parts of the read aloud text to model good reading habits. During the mini-lesson, the students participate in an active engagement segment where they "turn and talk" to their partner about the read aloud and/or strategy.
 
Independent Reading: 20 Minutes
After the mini-lesson, the students have the flexibility to select a "cozy" spot within the room and read books of their choice independently (the books selected are on each student's independent reading level- see below**) and may also be practicing the reading strategy that was introduced during the mini-lesson. During this time, the teacher will be having one-on-one, small group, or guided reading group conferences. The goal is for students to build stamina while reading so that they are able to read for a longer period of time without becoming tired or bored.
 

Closure: 10 Minutes

The closure segment of this workshop occurs at our classroom reading rug. As a class, we share our thoughts of the strategies we used during our independent reading time.
 

 

**Formal Reading Assessment: 

Your child was given a Formal Reading Assessment in September to determine their Independent Reading Level. Please be advised that they will also be assessed in January and again in March.  It is very important for your child to read books that are on THEIR CURRENT Reading Level. If you notice that your child is either struggling with a book or reading a book too quickly, that may be an indication that the book they are reading is not on their level. 

 

Some ways you can help improve your child's Independent Reading Level: 

 

1. Make sure your child is reading at least 30 minutes each night.

Encourage your child to select books that interest them. Have your child predict what the story will be about before reading the book. 

2. Read together           

When reading with an adult or older sibling, your child can be reminded to use picture/context clues to figure out an unfamiliar word. Also, modeling accurate reading with expression and good speed, is an important part of reading together. If your child sees you do it, they will do it as well.

3. Discuss

During and after reading, ask your child questions about the story. It is very important for your child to be able to tell you what is happening in the story as they are reading and what happened in the story once they finish the book. Encourage your child to respond in complete sentences. 

 

 

To Learn More About Reading Levels please visit the following links:

 

http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/article/book-selection-tips/parents-guide-to-guided-reading 

 

http://www.fountasandpinnellleveledbooks.com/aboutLeveledTexts.aspx