Term 1
Reading
Students will participate in a guided reading and conference group with their teacher weekly. Each week they will be given the opportunity to read independently, with a partner, in small groups and as a class. A range of comprehension strategies will also be explicitly taught during the term. We will be focusing on Predicting, Connections, Inferring and Questioning.
Writing
Throughout the term, students will be exploring a variety of writing genres during our Independent Writing routine known as Writer's Workshop. The routine is similar to Reader's Workshop. The aim is that students select a seed (photo, small object, poem, feather, key, postcard, words to a song, map, small toy, leaf, picture etc) of their choice. They then brainstorm, plan, write, conference and occasionally, publish. Poetry and Persuasive texts will be our focus this term and students will have an opportunity to be involved in workshops that will aim to develop their ability to write a clear message for their intended audience.
Spelling
We will continue to use the SMART Spelling program this term. Each week students will be introduced to a new graph, digraph or trigraph and a new list of words. They will be given the opportunity to select 6-8 words for the week. Each day students will be involved in spelling activities with a specific focus. At the end of each week students will be tested on their 6-8 words.
Handwriting
Weekly handwriting lessons focus on letter families, correct size, formation, spacing and placement. Correct pencil grip and posture continues to be monitored.