What is Reading Workshop?
Reading Workshop was designed by Columbia University and incorporates independent reading time with individual instruction. The class meets for a minilesson together. Each minilesson teaches a specific strategy that the readers can apply to their Just Right books. Just Right books are at a level the reader feels comfortable and happy reading. These kinds of books have just a few tricky words, but can be read and retold smoothly. The books that the children have for homework should be comfortable for their reading level.
What can I work on at home with my child?
One of the best things that you can do with your child is read to and with them as much as possible. In addition to reading there are some skills that the students are working on in class that will help them to progress:
1. Retell the Story- After reading a book, or reading a chapter, have your child tell you what has happened including main characters names, setting, important details and some quotes.
2. Make Predictions- While reading a story, stop your child and ask them to give you some predictions of what might happen next in the story.
3. Talk about the Characters- Who are the important characters? What are some of the traits that these characters have? Is there evidence from the book to support those traits?
4. Talk about the author- What is the lesson or message the the author wants the readers to learn or understand?
What about high frequency words?
Below is a link with a list of high frequency words for Kindergarten, First and Second Grade. Practicing recognition of these words can help to make reading sound smooth and improve writing.
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