Happy New Year!

Hi everyone! Happy new year! Had to believe that we are nearing the half-way point of our year together!

Just a couple of needed updates:

RAW

I have had to make some changes to the home reading program. Despite best efforts to stream-line a home reading program that works for everybody, I am finding that I need to make some minor changes. The main goal of the RAW program is to foster independent reading at home that is structured and consistent. Many of the students in 5A are independent readers already. The writing component was designed to give me a sense of student comprehension (and provide some accountability for those more reluctant readers/writers). While I still want this component in the program, I see that confusion regarding the writing expectation for many has resulted in extended clarification and deadlines as well as taken away focus on the main goal of the program - instilling a love of independent reading.

For this reason, the RAW reading program will follow a simple change. Students are still expected (by year's end) to read and respond to six different novels of their choice. Students can now move through their books/responses independently (i.e. they can move forward to new books at their own pace and submit completed responses on their own terms). I still request that all new book choices be offered to me first so that I can help determine strong book choices. I continue to encourage parents to ensure their child is reading on a consistent schedule (15-20 minutes/day).

As an independent activity, I will from time-to-time check in with student progress throughout the remainder of the year. However, I will not be managing/reminding students step-by-step to complete, revise, edit and submit completed responses. While I am always available for questions and clarification, I will be putting the onus of the management of the program on the students (and their parents).

Again, the program was designed to foster independent reading. If your child loves reading (or is learning to love reading) then we are succeeding. With these minor tweaks, I hope to eliminate some of the difficulties (and stress) that some of the students are experiencing. Please don't hesitate to reach-out if you have any questions regarding these changes.

INQUIRY PROJECT

Thank-you parents for your quick response and support regarding our upcoming inquiry projects. We will be moving forward with our investigations into the Bermuda Triangle and the 9-11 attacks in New York. Students are both excited and motivated to learn more about their chosen areas!