It was an informative and lively workshop - thanks to the Grade 1 teachers for the hands on stations and the parents for their enthusiasm and participation.
Yesterday over 40 parents came to an information meeting about our Grade 1 Word Study program. We provided a bit of background about Words Their Way and then had hands on stations for parents to try the various sorts and activities that Grade 1 students do in class and for homework. It was an informative and lively workshop - thanks to the Grade 1 teachers for the hands on stations and the parents for their enthusiasm and participation. Word Study Workshop on PhotoPeach Here is the Prezi with the background information about our Word Study program
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Now we have a full week of school under our belts, it is time to get reading! Last post shared some good books for younger kids, this time I have some suggestions for older elementary students. Try them out and let me know what you think... ![]() In a Glass Grimmly. By Adam Gidwitz. illus. Dutton/Penguin. Inspired by the tales of Grimm and Andersen, Gidwitz leads Jack and Jill on a quest full of adventure and fantastical creatures. Wit and wisdom packaged as fun. ![]() Iceberg, Right Ahead!: The Tragedy of the Titanic. By Stephanie Sammartino McPherson. illus. Lerner/Twenty-First Century. Drawing from official documents, logs, and diaries and illlustrated with plentiful photographs, this well-organized, gripping chronicle records the tragic story, from the original design and construction to the discovery of the ship's remains and motion picture recreations. ![]() Liar & Spy. By Rebecca Stead. Random/Wendy Lamb. What's real and what's deception? This subtle story, with unlikely friendships and secrets to be revealed, will intrigue readers and encourage a second reading. If you can't find these titles locally, don't forget about Book Depository - they have these books in stock and free shipping to Singapore.
Welcome back to the beginning of another great school year here at ISS. I would like to welcome all our new families as well as greet returning members of the ISS community. I hope to get some interaction about Literacy going via this blog and encourage you to post comments and/or contact me regarding any Literacy topics. Let's start off the school year with a couple of book recommendations for younger children (older kids might get a laugh from these stories as well). Reading with your child on a regular basis is the single most important thing you can do to enhance your child's Literacy skill ![]() Young children worried about starting preschool or kindergarten will be reassured when you read the picture book I Am Too Absolutely Small for School by Lauren Child to them. Lola is sure she is "too absolutely small for school," but Charlie, her older brother, humorously and patiently convinces she's not. Charlie give Lola all kinds of funny reasons that stretch the imagination that she needs to go to school. Child's mixed media artwork definitely adds to the fun. (Candlewick, 2004. ISBN: 9780763628871)
![]() Pete the Cat has four bright red high top shoes, a backpack, a lunch box and a red guitar. The laid back groovy blue cat is ready for school and nothing bothers him: not his first trip to somewhere new (the school library), not the loud and busy lunchroom, not the playground overrun with children and not all of the different classroom activities. "Does Pete worry? Goodness no!" In fact, Pete just goes along singing his song and calmly accepting whatever happens. This is a good book for kids 4 and up who need some reassurance about coping with school life. You can download the free companion Pete the Cat song from the publisher's website.
![]() Are you looking for a children's book that can make your child's transition from kindergarten to first grade a little easier? In her amusing picture book First Grade Stinks!, author Mary Ann Rodman tells the story of Haley and her first day in first grade. With unexpected sympathy and explanations from her first grade teacher about why so much is different from kindergarten, Haley stops thinking, "First grade stinks!" and begins to think, "First grade is great!" (Peachtree Publishers, 2006. ISBN: 9781561453771)
These descriptions and more ideas can be found at: Next post - good reads for older students, check back soon! One of the most important things you can do with your child this summer is READ. Children at all levels should be reading daily to maintain and strengthen their literacy skills. On the book list page I have added two lists for summer reading ideas. There are so many good books out there and it is now easier than ever to find more. Try a couple of the websites below or make a family experience to search out new websites and books.
Happy reading - I've got a few books lined up on my Kindle already. ![]() Grammar is one of those things that many children (and adults) struggle with. English can be tricky and especially if you are learning English as a new language it can get confusing.
I just came across this site that has lots of interactive activities to help kids (and adults) improve and practice grammar. The site has many layers and areas - take a bit of time and do some exploring. Then leave a comment and tell me what you found. ![]() The school year is rapidly drawing to a close and yet our students still need daily reading practice. Try to make it fun and interesting to keep the motivation high.
As part of Book Week 2013 6 Classes collaborated and wrote a story. It started in K2 HV and ended in Gr5PS. When to practice spelling and make it fun? Anytime - with an iPad or iPhone app. Check out the 3 below (there are many, many more out there) to consider a different way to practice spelling words. ![]() Spelling Notebook Description:
Encourages independent learning Ads are distracting Voice recording makes learning more personal FREE ![]() A+ Spelling Test Description:
Pros: Cons: Unscramble mode is fun Need to record all the words - no directory available FREE ![]() Spelling Mastery Description:
Pros: Cons: Simple, game format Just games, not more in depth practice or reporting FREE Give these a try and let me know what you think - next time some more interesting apps. Door Contest Winners - It was a difficult decision
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