We're finishing our science fiction book clubs this week! Some students read books that were 500 pages - in one month! Others struggled to get the reading of a book half the size completed. I cannot stress enough the importance of reading each day at home. Many ELA teachers at Thomas are trying to help your children build their stamina for reading. Students in high school are expected to read books of the teachers' choice, and if our children aren't used to reading even what THEY choose every night, they're going to have a terrible time of it (and maybe even grow to "hate" reading). Consider sitting down to read yourself or even reading alongside your child (if you don't already and if you can find the time) to help him or her see the importance.
We wrote a piece reflecting on what we know about one of the characters in our book club books, as well. Even if your child has not (yet) finished the book club book, they should've read enough of it to complete this writing by the end of this week. After I provide feedback, they may revise within two weeks. They have been told many times to let me know when they've revised (there's a clipboard for them to sign on our whiteboard shelf), so I can provide further feedback. This writing process benefits all authors. ?
Midterms went out last week, and yet our ELA class looked at our comprehension checks no matter our "grade." I'm again sharing this video that is a couple of years old, because it shows the way to view your child's progress:
We wrote a piece reflecting on what we know about one of the characters in our book club books, as well. Even if your child has not (yet) finished the book club book, they should've read enough of it to complete this writing by the end of this week. After I provide feedback, they may revise within two weeks. They have been told many times to let me know when they've revised (there's a clipboard for them to sign on our whiteboard shelf), so I can provide further feedback. This writing process benefits all authors. ?
Midterms went out last week, and yet our ELA class looked at our comprehension checks no matter our "grade." I'm again sharing this video that is a couple of years old, because it shows the way to view your child's progress: