Grade 1 Summer Reading Requirements

June 2015

 

Dear Families of Students entering First Grade,

 

Summer vacation is just around the corner and it’s time to begin thinking about summer reading.  The first grade teachers have selected books that they want parents to read and discuss with their child over the summer break.  These books will be each classroom’s common discussion focus in September.  We ask that you not only read these selections to your child, but also spend the time discussing the content, characters, themes and any detail that strikes your child’s interest.  The time you spend on these activities will allow your child to participate more fully in class discussions and delve into activities and projects that spring from the reading.

The Empty Pot by Demi

The Bill Martin Jr. Big Book of Poetry edited by Bill Martin, Jr.

 

Of course, we don’t want to limit your child’s summer reading to the aforementioned choices; we want each child to read and be read to as much as possible.  To assist you in this effort, the faculty has compiled a list of recommended titles for summer reading.  This is listed on the NCCS website (www.countryschool.net).  If you click the “Library” link, you will find the “Summer Reading Lists.”  There are links to award-winning books and other excellent sites that you might like to explore.

 

 

As you help your child to establish a summer reading routine, please keep in mind that our goal is to help children to become successful life-long readers.  It is important that they read books that are at a comfortable reading level as well as interesting to them.  Children may need your assistance and encouragement in choosing and beginning books for independent reading, if they are readers.  Let them know that the books that interest them, but are too much of a stretch for their skills, can be enjoyed as “read aloud books.”  All of us are firm believers that children’s reading skills improve through independent practice and being read to. 

 

Thank you for participating in our summer reading program and have a delightful summer of reading together with your child.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Kathi Holz

Head of Lower School