Pieces of our Day

LITERACY MODEL

 

Dorchester District Two’s Literacy Model of Instruction is being used across our district.  This program offers children structured, consistent instruction in reading and writing.  Below is a short description of each of the five components of our Literacy Model.

GRADE LEVEL INSTRUCTION

The focus of this block is to teach reading strategies and comprehension skills.  We will be using our reading books, as well as other reading materials during this block.  During this time, students will be reading in a whole group setting directed by the teacher.  Students may also read independently, with a partner, in a small group, or with the teacher.

EXPLICIT WRITING

The focus of this block is for students to develop writing skills and to write

 independently.  There is time for teacher modeling and student writing and

sharing.  The teacher will also be conferencing during this time to assess

 progress. Most of their writing will be done in their writing journal. 

FLUENCY

The purpose of this time is to build fluency in reading. This block also exposes children to a wide variety of literature from all genres.  This block begins with a teacher read aloud and discussion of story elements.  Students then read independently from book baskets containing a variety of books on their level.  During this time the teacher will conference individually with children about their reading.  At the end of this time, children may have an opportunity to share about the books they have read.

 

EXPLICIT PHONICS

During this time, students will participate in phonemic awareness activities.  Phonemic awareness is the understanding that spoken words are made of individual sounds.  These activities are teacher directed and will be done orally in class. We will also be teaching explicit phonics using the STEPS program.  Skills taught during this time include letter knowledge, letter-sound relationships, word structure, word meaning, spelling, rhyming, and syllables.

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 DIFFERENTIATED/ FLEXIBLE INSTRUCTION

We are fortunate at Windsor Hill to have a small-group reading program for first grade students.  The FROG (Facilitated Reading for Optimal Growth) Program allows us to give each child more individualized instruction on their reading level.  We have 2 FROG teachers at WHES and classroom teachers instruct a small group as well.  Your child will come to FROG every day.  We will work on a variety of skills including story elements, writing, reading comprehension, and word analysis.  Your child may change groups and FROG teachers throughout the year.