September 1, 2009

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Today your first grader started guided reading. Your child will meet with his/her teacher Monday-Thursday from 8:20-9:50. The reading time consists of seatwork and centers which reinforce skills that have been previously taught. During this time your first grader will also meet in a small group for reading instruction.

The small guided reading session is intense instruction at your child’s reading level. It is broken down like this:

10 minutes-- Reading of a familiar book/s at or slightly below your child’s level to develop fluency.
10 minutes-- Phonics or comprehension instruction related to the upcoming new book.
10 minutes-- Reading of the new book.

Homework:

Homework is sent home Monday-Thursday. (Homework will be placed in large Ziplock bag.) It is always due back the following day, with the reading log signed. Students who do not have homework completed will spend part of their recess time working. It is up to the teacher when they decide to send home the reading bag, so please be on the look out for it.

Please understand that we do our very best to get a new book into the bag each day, but sometimes a new book is not completed in time for it to come home. Also, any other reading you do at home is always encouraged!

Let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
The First Grade Teachers