21st Century Reading:
"When a student fails to think while he is reading, he is not truly reading."
The process of learning to read is developmental, and therefore requires tailored instruction. This summer, our teachers completed a two week intensive course, in which they learned how to explicitly teach the thought process involved in independent comprehension. Past testing results indicated many students’ fluency levels were advanced but they were unable to make the written connection. Research shows strong developmental connection between reading and writing. As you will see in the photos, students write in the SPEC* log and meet in small groups daily.
Before fully implementing the new reading program, Foundations and Frameworks, elementary had a trial year in 5th grade during the 2016/17 school year. 1st through 5th grades took a pretest in September and a post-test in May. The 5th grade had the greatest overall improvement and the average student increased their reading score by 1.5 grade levels. Students became more confident readers, comprehension improved, and the love of reading was brought back to the classroom.
With this new program, high expectations and accountability exist for every child. By setting obtainable goals, constantly modeling good work habits, and increasing instructive feedback; our teachers are equipping students with the necessary tools they need to be successful.
*SPEC- SPace for Extended Comprehension
-Melissa Simonson, Elementary Principal
Information obtained from Dr. Kevin Washburn and Briarwood Christian School