September 1, 2016
Dear Families,
Instead of doing a traditional reading log, the third grade teachers have decided to try something a little different. We want to encourage our students to read for enjoyment and gathering information, not only to fill out a required log. Our goal is for our students to become avid life-long readers, and we do not feel that a reading log is the best way to accomplish this goal. We would like our students to read nightly, (approximately 90 minutes a week). We will be doing different activities at school to encourage your child to read a book that he or she is excited about, as well as able to read. As we’re sure you are aware, this is half the battle!
This huge goal cannot be accomplished by us alone; we need your help! We will do our best to ensure every child is excited about reading every night, but choosing a few items on the following list will encourage your child to read frequently (ideally nightly) at home:
~Set aside a time for reading and remind your child to do it nightly. Many families have their children read as part of a bedtime routine, while dinner is being prepared, or first thing in the morning if they’re an early riser. Choose a time that works best for your family that will be doable most days of the week.
~Have books at home that your child is excited about and able to read. Scholastic book orders, yard sales, Goodwill, and Amazon are all great places to get inexpensive books. We also have amazing local libraries that are full of a wide variety of books for children.
~Choose a weekly or monthly library day for your family. Setting it on your calendar will make it more likely to happen even when you get busy, and your child will love being able to go check out many different books. Best of all, it’s free!
~Encourage your child to bring a book with them in the car if they are able to read while you drive. Even a short trip to the grocery store could be 30+ minutes of reading if they are able to read on the way there and back. School bus rides and car trips to sporting practices or events are another great time to enjoy a good book.
~Set up a fun, special place to read at your home. Pillows, soft blankets, an old tent and a flashlight, etc. can be used to give your child a special place to go and relax with the book they’re currently reading.
Anytime we want to become better at something in life, we have to practice. We know this is true for sports, cooking, etc., and the same is true for reading. Research shows that families that make reading a priority, and children who “practice” their reading skills simply by reading, become better readers. While we do spend some of our school day reading, we have many other activities to fit in as well. Reading at home is a vital way to ensure your child’s success in school, and later, in life.
Families of third graders are experiencing extra pressure from The Ohio Department of Education through the 3rd Grade Reading Guarantee. This requirement is not something we can ignore, and reading at home will only help your child reach the state’s goal, if they haven’t already done so.
The attached “Third Grade Home Reading Record” will be our way to help students remember to read and help give them activities to do while reading.
Please return the bottom portion of this letter as soon as possible. We appreciate your help in furthering your child’s education and a successful third grade year!
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___ I have read the information about the reading record, and will work hard to ensure my child is reading an appropriate amount of time at home.
___ I have read the information about the reading record, but at this time I am unable to ensure my child will read an appropriate amount of time at home. *If this describes your family’s situation, please write your child’s teacher a note letting us know what needs you have so that we can help.
Student:___________________________ Parent Signature: _____________________________
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