This upcoming school year I will be changing grade levels from First Grade to Kindergarten. I am so excited to provide an engaging environment in which emergent readers and second language learners grow and thrive. It is important that these students build a strong literacy foundation. Research has proven that if students do not become grade level readers by third grade, they are at risk of dropping out of school or even committing crimes. The expectations of the Common Core Standards are high, and by the time students exit Kindergarten they must be able to read.
In my experience, students become passionate readers when presented with engaging opportunities.
Kindergartners need to interact with a lot of supportive text that pique their interests. Big books with large print allow students to share the reading experience, and smaller books allow them to practice what they learn. Such texts are specifically designed for emergent readers.
Unfortunately my Title I school does not have the appropriate books for Kindergartners and cannot afford to purchase them. My incoming students deserve the opportunity to learn to read. My students are in need of Big Books that invite students to share in the joy of reading.
My Project
As students are introduced to reading, it is crucial to choose engaging big books that all of the students can gather around and see. After enjoying the teacher read the book, students enjoy in participating in a second read. Through multiple reads, students approximate and exhibit behaviors of a proficient reader. In addition, the students have a lot of fun and develop a passion for reading.
Also, students get excited about reading a series of books about the same character.
For Kindergarten emergent readers, books about the familiar characters Bingo and Kitty Cat entice students to read more books. Not only do students become motivated to read books, but they are also excited to talk about the characters and their development across books.
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