Professional Documents
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April 24th Family support Series at CCA 6:30pm April 25th CCGSPTA
One of the most powerful tools for helping kindergartners learn to read is for parents and teachers to read themselves. Young children should not only see the adults they love reading, they should also read with them. Reading storybooks aloud to kindergarteners helps build their vocabularies, appreciation and interest in reading and background knowledge. They also see the ways an expert reader uses strategies to make meaning. Reading a book aloud to a young child always benefits him or her. Kindergarten reading comprehension is often taught using repetitive reading. While it may seem that having a child read the same story over and over would deter her reading development, it actually aids it. (although as a parent I also struggle with how many times I can endure Green Eggs and Ham) Repetitive reading allows a child to process a text multiple times. Often the first time she reads it she is focusing on decoding words rather than putting them together to make meaning. Once she has mastered the words she can move more fluently through the story and can begin making meaning. Kindergarten parents and teachers are encouraged to have children read texts aloud multiple times. This allows them to see where the child needs support in understanding words, phrases or sentences. Also, they can ask guiding questions to help children build the skills that they will eventually use independently when they read. Reading out loud to your child is a way to teach vocabulary while modeling reading. As you read aloud:
Introduce the characteristics/elements of the story (characters, setting, problem, solution, plot) Explain words, topics, or concepts that ELLs may not be familiar with Model how a reader self-corrects when making a mistake Think aloud about what you are reading
Provide opportunities for children to retell the story they heard through dramatic retellings; or use picture cards to put the story's events in sequence (This story inspired by Joey Piazza, Kindergarten Reader)
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A Great Read
I had the pleasure of working with Alfie Kohn over a series of workshops on writing when I was a teacher in the public schools. Fortunately, I had a principal who saw the value of progressive education and valued a holistic approach to education. This book highlights much of that concept. It is especially valuable for our students. Starting with our students strengths and interests is paramount in helping us provide them a well rounded and full experience. In an era of skill and drill, and high stakes testing, we miss the opportunity to nurture the most fundamental processes our students offer. The diversity of skills and wisdom they have must be fostered. I especially appreciate the books focus on scientifically rigorous outcomes for students who are denied a diverse and well rounded school experience. All parents should read this. Whether you agree with him or not, the data is most interesting!
Visit Alfiekohn.org
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