C.S. Lewis once said, "We read to know we are not alone". I believe that the same can be true for writing. My students come to kindergarten with a variety of social and educational experiences, as well as varying socio-economic backgrounds. They inspire me each day with their desire to learn!
My students devour each new book that I introduce and desperately want to become strong writers, making their voice heard.
Our district introduced reading and writing workshops nearly 10 years ago for kindergartners. Our youngest learners are in the very beginning stages of literacy. For many, this is the first time that they will connect with others through the written word. A strong balanced literacy program, which included phonics, is key to their success.
My Project
When it comes to teaching young students to read and write, no curriculum for the primary grades would be complete without an emphasis on word study. Emergent readers and writers must understand how letters, sounds, and words work to form the building blocks of language. Phonics is an integral part of a strong balanced literacy program.
I have the opportunity to learn best practices in phonics instruction from the leader in literacy instruction- Teachers College Reading and Writing Project.
I have been teaching reading and writing workshop, using the Units of Study written by the researchers at TCRWP, for nine years. The new Phonics Units of Study with streamline the curriculum by supporting my young learners with the skills needed to become strong readers and writers. By digging deeper into the newly available curriculum and research, I will be able to start the year strong with a cohesive plan for literacy instruction for my kindergartners.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Smyth and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
