Silent+Sustained+Reading

We will learn to be focused, independent, and fluent readers. Our class will commit to regular silent reading sessions.
 * //What will we learn?// **

** //Why will we learn this?// ** " The more you read, the more you know,  the smarter you grow." Dr. Seuss Reading independently is an essential foundation of lifelong learning and 21st century skill sets. According to “Education World” (2007), sustained silent reading can serve many purposes:
 * Most school reading is assigned reading. SSR offers students an opportunity to read material of their own choice.
 * During SSR time, many students learn that they can use their word attack skills to figure out new words -- on their own!
 * SSR can build students' confidence in their abilities to work through reading trouble spots.
 * Many studies of whole-class groups and of select groups of unmotivated readers show that SSR can result in students wanting to read more.
 * The amount of time that students spend reading independently outside of school often increases as a result of SSR, parents report. Often children ask for books to read at home.
 * SSR can be one more element in a reading program aimed at demonstrating the joy that reading can bring and developing lifelong readers and learners.

In order to make this a successful reading improvement tool, we must agree and adhere to the following rules:
 * // How will we learn this? // **

1. Students are expected to bring their SSR book to class every Tuesday and Thursday. If the student does not bring their book to class on the designated SSR day, the student may read materials from the classroom.

2. Students must read for a 30-minute period, unless otherwise stated. No homework or material from another class may be worked on during this time.

3. Students may read fiction, or non-fiction - a novel, biography, magazine, newspaper or historical account. Reading material may be in English or Spanish.

4. Students may not talk or disturb others. This will be strictly enforced. SRR points will be lost for not adhering to this rule.

5. No lavatory, drink, or locker passes may be used during SSR. In an emergency and with teacher approval, students may leave quietly and return as quietly as when he or she left. Agenda books must be signed.

6. You must go to the library to check out or renew books on your own time or during class library trips. DO not wait until class time to do this.

7. After the 30-minutes of silent reading, students will be required to complete a short, reflective writing assignment in English. Assignments will be graded. **If you are absent during SSR, you must complete SSR and the SSR writing activity on your own time.** Criteria for SSR is to stay focused and reading for 30 minutes and do your best work when writing the reflection.
 * //How will we know we are successful?//**