Literacy
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Math
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We follow a Balanced Literacy approach. This consists of writing, independent reading, supported reading, and word study.
Making Meaning/Reader's Workshop: Students receive reading instruction through daily mini-lessons and read alouds, and then read independently and with partners to practice these strategies using books on individual reading levels. Students learn how to choose books that are a "just right fit" on their reading level. Working with partners gives students opportunities to develop "book talk" language and socialization skills. Being A Writer: Being A Writer delivers writing instruction through read alouds and mini-lessons. Students learn how to recognize "great writing" during read alouds, it is modeled by the teacher, and then students practice the skills independently. Being A Writer promotes a caring writing community in the classroom and encourages students to build their social skills as they discuss writing and share their own writing pieces. Word's Their Way: Word's Their Way allows for students to receive phonics instruction on individualized levels. Students are given a list of letters or words that they sort and work with throughout the week to discover spelling patterns and conventions. Sorting a personalized list of letters/words allows students to process and make sense of phonics through exploration of words. |
Math Workshop/Investigations: Math Investigations is a student-centered math curriculum that promotes hands-on learning as students learn to become mathematical thinkers through use of manipulative materials and critical thinking. Math Investigations also promotes collaboration with peers as students share reasoning and have mathematical discussions.
Math Small Groups: Students will work in small groups to practice skills and math concepts on a differentiated level. Students will do activities and games based upon their own readiness level with other students in a small group. This allows instruction to meet the needs of every student while also promoting socialization and problem solving. |