October Reading Workshop

READERS WORKSHOP

OCTOBER 

Developing Ideas Characters and Books

We have wrapped up the first part of Unit 1 in reading. At this point, students have gotten back into the swing of reading, have increased their reading stamina, and have practiced the habits of being good readers. 

In this part unit, we teach students that readers do not just read to understand the plot of a story (what is happening); instead, readers develop ideas about characters, character relationships, character change, and symbolism. 

Students will practice developing, tracking, and supporting ideas with clear, detailed evidence from the story. They will also learn to revise (change) their theories as they learn more information about the characters and the story. 

How can you help your child at home?

·      Please make sure your child has a quiet place to read.

·      Encourage them to practice developing ideas and writing about them with their independent reading books.

Questions to ask your child:

·      What ideas do you have about the characters in in your book?

·      What ideas do your have about the character relationships in your book?

·      When your child shares an idea, always ask them to show you a part in the story that supports their idea (evidence).

You can also ask your child to discuss the ideas we have been developing and discussing in the current read aloud book, Eggs, by Jerry Spinelli. We have developed ideas about the characters David and Primrose, their relationship, and even symbolism we are noticing the author use.