This special education classroom serves students who are classified as emotionally disturbed, struggle academically, have irregular attendance, work best in small-groups and do not all have support or resources at home to build vocabulary and reading skills. The sixth grade students are required to complete reading reflections for their language arts classes. The seventh grade students read a variety of genres throughout the year and participate in a set of book club questions in their classes. Each Wednesday during students’ Homebase time, we spend time reading. We sometimes struggle finding books that are on our students’ reading level while also holding their attention. The books that are of interest to the students get a lot of wear and tear or there may not be enough copies. We’d like to increase our classroom library based on topics our specific students are interested in. In addition to adding specific genres to our classroom library, we’d also work with students to find books at a suitable grade and reading level. These book purchases will encourage reading, improve vocabulary and can be used for many more years!
My Project
Our special education students don’t all enjoy reading.
Since many students in this population are not on grade-level, the task of reading is difficult, boring and/or frustrating.
By allowing them to choose books at their level and based on their interests, we’re making the reading experience less of a battle and more enjoyable. This will promote literacy, make them more suitable hires in their future careers and will give them ownership of their own learning.
Most of the books chosen are #1 in a series. My hope is that we can get them hooked on a series and expand as needed.
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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. Fontanier and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
