• The signature page will be at the bottom of the letter being sent home.

    I have read the requirements, and I promise to read independently to complete this task.

    __________________________________________ Student Signature

    __________________________________________ Printed Name

    I have read the requirements and understand the expectations for my child. I promise to encourage my child to read NIGHTLY to improve his/her reading skills.

    ___________________________________________ Parent Signature

    ___________________________________________ Printed name

  • Reading is an essential skill that is necessary to be successful in all subject areas.  While many students do not typically choose to read, it is critical for success in school and life.  Therefore, the Language Arts department requires students do independent reading at home with books that interest the student and that are on his/her level.  This is important because it builds fluency, increases vocabulary, sharpens reading comprehension skills, and builds background knowledge.  In order to ensure reading success, students must read at least 20 minutes per night.

    The following outlines the procedures and requirements for independent reading this year 2016-2017:

    • At the beginning of nine weeks, students will take the STAR Reading Assessment to determine students' independent reading levels. This will be completed on Wednesday, September 7th.
    • Students will have a reading goal based on their level (ZPD range).
    • Students will not be penalized if they do not reach their point goal for the 9 weeks.  However, students who do meet their goal by the end of the 9 weeks will earn an extra 100 as a TEST grade.
    • To foster independent reading, students will be required to read ONE novel (chapter book) of their choice per month (September-April) and take an AR test on that novel by the last day of the month (December's test needs to be taken by the day we get out for Christmas and April's book by the day we get out for Spring Break).  The cut off date will posted in class and on the website.  Students will receive a TEST grade based on their AR test score for each book. (about 2 books/grades per 9 weeks).
    1. Students may choose books within their level as determined by the STAR Reading Assessment. This will be their ZPD range (Zone of Proximal Development)
    2. Students must earn at least 2 points a month through chapter books. Therefore, they can either read one chapter book worth 2 points or more OR read two 1 point chapter books.

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