Reading Workshop: In this unit of study, we will be focusing on refreshing reading strategies good readers use while exploring the Mystery genre. In our first novel, The Westing Game, we will review elements of Mystery stories while paying particular attention to character traits while we read of the many characters in this story. After The Westing Game, we will venture into our first book club experience where students collaborate in groups. Each group will be reading their own mystery story as we continue discussions about what makes the Mystery genre unique.
Writing Workshop: In our current unit of study, we will spend time focusing on setting the learning environment for our writing workshop. Through various writing pieces that challenge students to write personal narratives, sixth graders will grow dramatically as writers and authors of creative pieces that reflect on their lives. Our writing workshop places a high priority on setting and working toward clear goals, which are individualized for each student. We will also be intentional about working toward developing skills they need to write well across all subject areas. Please check your child's work for their progress on pieces like: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, 6 Word Memoirs, Top 10 List and various personal narrative "slices of life" stories.
Word Work: Every Wednesday in Middle School has been dubbed "Word Work Wednesday". This is a time where students focus on concepts relating to spelling, vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and other conventional writing strategies. We often tie what we are learning on Wednesdays into our writing pieces or books we are reading in Reading Workshop. This term we will specifically focus on: Vocabulary from the novels we are reading, Commas, Capitalization, Simple and Complex Sentences, Appositives and Dialogue.
Some things your child may be working on at home: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, Personal Narratives, reading mysteries and books for their own independent reading responsibilities.
HOW TO CHECK YOUR CHILD'S PROGRESS
Check Learning Progress on Google Drive: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, Character Maps for The Westing Game
Sent Home Recently: Spelling Test of Personal Survival Words, End-Of-School-Day Closing Prayer, Check point quizzes (every Wednesday) for Word Work Wednesday.
Sent Home Recently: Spelling Test of Personal Survival Words, End-Of-School-Day Closing Prayer, Check point quizzes (every Wednesday) for Word Work Wednesday.