What are anchors?
Anchors is the name for the three hours each week when most fifth graders are in band. During this time non-band students are able to get small group support that “anchors” them to the content that they are learning. They get support in reading, spelling and organization as well as extra time to complete assignments that they have gotten behind on. We are continuing to move students into groups that address different needs in an attempt to maximize the progress students make during this time. Visit our "Anchors" tab to learn more!
How are language arts lessons distributed between literature and base classes?
Literature provides a big picture through which to study reading and the written word. This is a time when students study literary elements such as writing techniques and author choices. Students reflect regularly through several methods including writing, drawing and whole group and small group discussions. In this class students work on the Common Core Standards for literature.
Language arts lessons in each base class consist of more individual reading and writing experiences. All students are expected to read 100 minutes from a “just right” book each week outside of class, and are regularly assigned reading logs to help them, and us, keep track of choices and progress. In addition, there are times set aside for independent reading in the classroom throughout the week. Students engage with teachers and peers to discuss their books in different forums, from reporting out after a reading period to one-on-one discussions with teachers. There are also focused reading times, when students are assigned an article, story or essay to read in class. These materials represent a mix of fiction and non-fiction work. Students are also engaged regularly in the writing process. From writing Monday letters to completing narrative essays there are ample opportunities to teach mini-lessons on the Common Core Writing and Language Standards. All classrooms also have a time set aside to share a read aloud story every day. Finally, each classroom is assessed regularly to determine which skills are most needed by their specific students and appropriate spelling, vocabulary, phonic, and/or grammar lessons and practice are provided. Because of these assessments, the three classes are not always assigned the same assignments each week.
Anchors is the name for the three hours each week when most fifth graders are in band. During this time non-band students are able to get small group support that “anchors” them to the content that they are learning. They get support in reading, spelling and organization as well as extra time to complete assignments that they have gotten behind on. We are continuing to move students into groups that address different needs in an attempt to maximize the progress students make during this time. Visit our "Anchors" tab to learn more!
How are language arts lessons distributed between literature and base classes?
Literature provides a big picture through which to study reading and the written word. This is a time when students study literary elements such as writing techniques and author choices. Students reflect regularly through several methods including writing, drawing and whole group and small group discussions. In this class students work on the Common Core Standards for literature.
Language arts lessons in each base class consist of more individual reading and writing experiences. All students are expected to read 100 minutes from a “just right” book each week outside of class, and are regularly assigned reading logs to help them, and us, keep track of choices and progress. In addition, there are times set aside for independent reading in the classroom throughout the week. Students engage with teachers and peers to discuss their books in different forums, from reporting out after a reading period to one-on-one discussions with teachers. There are also focused reading times, when students are assigned an article, story or essay to read in class. These materials represent a mix of fiction and non-fiction work. Students are also engaged regularly in the writing process. From writing Monday letters to completing narrative essays there are ample opportunities to teach mini-lessons on the Common Core Writing and Language Standards. All classrooms also have a time set aside to share a read aloud story every day. Finally, each classroom is assessed regularly to determine which skills are most needed by their specific students and appropriate spelling, vocabulary, phonic, and/or grammar lessons and practice are provided. Because of these assessments, the three classes are not always assigned the same assignments each week.