Reading+Curriculum

If you would like to learn more about the reading program we are using this year in third grade. I recommend watching the video clips and reading a lesson plan at this website which shares some of the materials we're using. [|Reading Program Videos/ Lesson Plans]

In ASW, we use the Fountas & Pinnell reading level system, which helps students find books that are "just right" for them to read. It was created to help teachers quickly identify the reading levels of books in order to guide students in making good book choices. This is to prevent teachers and parents for having to continually re-direct the child's book choice. However, it is NOT an exact science and ultimately our goal is for children to be able to pick up a book and read a page or two and be able to tell if the book is "just right" for them. There are many variables in leveling books and even more in telling if a book is just right for a child. Most importantly, reading should be an enjoyable experience and that will only happen if a child is able to read with 94% comprehension and 95% reading accuracy/ fluency.
 * WHAT ARE LEVELED BOOKS?**

Once you know your child's reading level, you can use Scholastic's Book Leveling Site. It is pretty easy to use and has a large database of books. However, every title will not be in this database. First set YOUR READING LEVELING SYSTEM to __guided reading__. Then type in the title of the book your child is reading and it will tell you the level. Happy hunting! This will also be useful when you're trying to buy books for your child! :)

If you can’t find a level for a book, compare it to similar, leveled books. Keep in mind you will need to assess whether or not a book is developmentally appropriate for your child. For example, just because your third grade child can read a book about the Holocaust does not mean the subject is appropriate for him or her. Another example is a book written in dialect may be difficult for students to comprehend.
 * What can I do if a book is not leveled?**

As you compare consider the following:
 * Vocabulary, word choice
 * Sentence length and complexity
 * Length of book
 * Subject matter
 * Repetition, predictability
 * Picture support
 * Age appropriateness/Interest level

Students will read beyond their level when they’re motivated by a topic like dinosaurs or insects. Let it happen. That’s one way readers grow.
 * How much do levels matter?**

Observe your unique child and the subject matter.. Be flexible and trust your judgment. A well-informed parent who understands leveling systems and knows his/ her child will help their child make wise choices about books.
 * Remember, leveling systems are guides.**

--Text Level Explanations


 * UNIT 1: Building A Reading Life**

--Read this article to learn more about the research behind the importance of reading.


 * UNIT 2: Following Characters Into Meaning**