We discuss the chapter in class, but the bulk of the work is done at home. Parent notes with suggestions will be part of the chapter. A portion of the parent page is to be signed and returned to school. We use a phonics text, Modern Curriculum Press, Phonics , and a basal reading series, Scott Foreman, Celebrate Reading . Writing is modeled for students and daily writing allows opportunity for practicing new skills.
Students revise first drafts and publish writing in a variety of ways.
Daily oral language gives more practice on language mechanics. Students do daily silent reading and they are read aloud to daily. Weekly spelling lists combine spelling and phonics skills to help with word mastery. Third graders learn cursive writing by the D'Nelian method. We emphasize neat cursive writing as an effective communication skill.