the beginning...

A week ago the children chose their book for our Reader's Theater. They chose Here We Are by our beloved Oliver Jeffers. This book is written in the form of a note to his newborn son. His note is full of important things about living on planet Earth.

It is a beautiful book full of colorful illustrations, detailed diagrams, labels, and rich language. The text is challenging and not typical for Kindergarten students to read. But, the children chose it because of the power in the words, because they want to share it with their families.







As you practice with your child at home this weekend, please encourage your child to use the many sight words to help guide their reading. Remind them to use the pictures and their knowledge of how the book goes. Support them by helping with more challenging words. With time and a little more practice they will be ready for their reading of Here We Are.

We began our work and practice preparing on Monday of this week. I connected their practice to our ongoing work identifying important parts in books.

We reread Here We Are and listed the most important things.

The next day we reread Here We Are again! This time I invited the children to think beyond the text and make connections. Talking with a partner they listed the important things they would write in a note about living on planet Earth. 

 

On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday the children practiced reading their specific pages. We talked about keeping the book down, projecting our voices, and having calm bodies. We practiced careful and mindful transitions. It is important they have fun while celebrating their growth as readers.

During Reading Workshop on Friday I gave the children copies of their pages and they read their pages with a partner. Kindergarten students love practicing and preparing for a special experience. There was a shared excitement (even a joyful shout) when they heard we will continue to practice next week. I am impressed with their skills and their confidence.

They are taking this very seriously!