More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
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In the past few years I have had my entire class reading the same novel. Being that they are at different reading levels, I make sure each student is provided the vocabulary and comprehension support needed to understand and enjoy the novel. The first year I did this, after completing the first novel, over half of my class told me it was the first time they read an entire "chapter book".
Each book we read that year became their "favorite book". We generally read six to eight novels a year. I purchase the class sets of novels with my own money because it is that important to me that my students are exposed to and enjoy quality books.
I selected "Because of Mr. Terupt" because it is a very engaging book for fifth graders. It is about a fifth grade class. The characters are relatable. This novel also provides many opportunities for discussions about choices and right and wrong.
The other title I selected is Fish in a Tree. It is about a girl who struggles with reading because she has dyslexia. This book emphasizes individuality, acceptance, personal strength, confidence and developing a growth mindset.
Not only are both of these books full of rich vocabulary, strong character development and a variety of story elements, they also teach valuable lessons and provide so many opportunities for discussions. By adding these class sets of novels to my students' reading this year, they will have opportunities to improve their comprehension and vocabulary, but more importantly to develop and enhance their love of reading.
About my class
In the past few years I have had my entire class reading the same novel. Being that they are at different reading levels, I make sure each student is provided the vocabulary and comprehension support needed to understand and enjoy the novel. The first year I did this, after completing the first novel, over half of my class told me it was the first time they read an entire "chapter book".
Each book we read that year became their "favorite book". We generally read six to eight novels a year. I purchase the class sets of novels with my own money because it is that important to me that my students are exposed to and enjoy quality books.
I selected "Because of Mr. Terupt" because it is a very engaging book for fifth graders. It is about a fifth grade class. The characters are relatable. This novel also provides many opportunities for discussions about choices and right and wrong.
The other title I selected is Fish in a Tree. It is about a girl who struggles with reading because she has dyslexia. This book emphasizes individuality, acceptance, personal strength, confidence and developing a growth mindset.
Not only are both of these books full of rich vocabulary, strong character development and a variety of story elements, they also teach valuable lessons and provide so many opportunities for discussions. By adding these class sets of novels to my students' reading this year, they will have opportunities to improve their comprehension and vocabulary, but more importantly to develop and enhance their love of reading.