Reading Resources
Below are some things that you may find helpful when working with your child on their nightly reading.
Renaissance Learning (AR) Resources for Parents
Click on each link below to find out more information:
Parent Guide to AR
Parent Guide to AR Book Finder
Parent Guide to Renaissance Home Connect
Parent Guide to STAR Assessments_
Parent Guide to AR
Parent Guide to AR Book Finder
Parent Guide to Renaissance Home Connect
Parent Guide to STAR Assessments_
Video resources
A picture walk is something that all students work on in small reading groups. Here is a short video on how to do this at home with your child.
After reading, ask your child to do a 5-finger retell to check for understanding. This short video demonstrates how to do this at home.
Another way to build a strong reader is to encourage your child to monitor his or her understanding and make connections to what he or her she reads. The video below shows how your child can do this using sticky notes.
Did you know that we can navigate non fiction text differently than typical fiction that you read from cover to cover? Find below why it is important to make sure your child understands how to read nonfiction text.
Reading Websites and Printables
Scootpad-independent practice of the common core state standards in language arts
Story Maps-this interactive tool allows students to create story maps to demonstrate their understanding of the elements of fiction stories(character, setting, etc.)
Choosing a book--this is a printable bookmark with the simple reminders of how a student can choose a "just right" book at their own level.
Reading strategies--two printable bookmarks with visual reminders of word decoding strategies (how to figure out unknown words) and comprehension (thinking) strategies. Thank you to second grade teachers in Pinellas County, FL for posting this.
When your child does his or her nightly reading, you should be with them--even if they are an independent reader (meaning they are able to read silently by themselves). If your child would prefer to read to him or herself, allow them to do so, but consider doing the following for the last five minutes of their nightly reading:
Take 5 minutes to ask 5 questions will definitely improve the quality of reading time at home.
After you read with your child, have her/him complete a 5 finger retell. This step by step approach will allow your child to practice retelling easily. Just remember these 5 questions:
1. Who is in the story?
2. Where and when does the story take place?
3. What events happened in the beginning? middle? end?
4. What was the problem in the story?
5. How is the problem solved?
If you take 5 to ask 5, your child’s retells and comprehension will increase!