Reading Class

Reading classes are very structured and have a variety of reading strategies that we work on every day.  Students begin class by reading independently from a novel of their choice for five to eight minutes.  While reading, they complete a booklog that focuses on a specific reading skill including making predictions, asking questions, clarifying unknown words, and summarizing.  Next, students work on a program called Read Naturally.  Read Naturally is a fluency building program.  They work on this in small groups for fifteeen minutes.  Then, we work on specific reading strategies through reading a variety of texts.  The last five minutes of class is spent with me reading aloud to students from an exciting novel.  Modeling good reading teaches the students about what reading should look and sound like.  The two period classes do all of the same things, but the second period students receive instruction from the Language! program.  Language! focuses on a variety of reading and writing skills.

Strategies Class 

Strategies class is a small, structured study hall.  This class is designed to help students achieve success in their general education classes.  We monitor and assist with homework completion, read and discuss assigned textbook sections, study vocabulary, and study for tests.  We also make sure that students come to class prepared with their binders, textbooks, and other materials.  Assignment sheets are checked daily.    

Homework

Students in reading classes are required to read 25 pages per week from a novel of their choice.  They also complete a book log focusing on a specific reading strategy each week.  Students are given class time to complete these, but may need to take them home to finish.  There will be additional homework assignments when needed.  
All students should read at home as much as possible.  They can read by themselves, read to someone, or have someone read to them.  I have included links on this web site to lists of popular books and helpful reading strategies.  

About Me

This is my seventh year of teaching and my sixth year at East Middle School.  My first year I taught in Belt, Mt.  I enjoy teaching and love seeing students make gains in reading and build confidence!
I received my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Special Education from the University of Great Falls in 2002.  I just finished my master's degree in Reading Instruction in June, 2008 through Grand Canyon University.  
I have been married for 10 years and have a 5 year old son who has just entered kindergarten.  We enjoy reading, walking, traveling, and just being together!