Daily 5

  • 1. Read to Self  1
    The best way to become a better reader is by practicing each day, with books the students choose and are a "Good Fit".

     

    2. Work on Writing

    Just like reading, the best way to become a better writer is by practicing writing each day.

     
    3. Read to Someone
    Partner reading allows for more time to practice strategies, helping to build fluency, check for understanding, hear their own voice and time to share in this learning community.
     
    4. Word Work
    Expanded vocabulary and correct spelling allow for more fluent reading and writing thus speeding up the ability to comprehend what is read and get thinking down on paper.

     

    5. Listen to Reading

    Hearing good examples of literature and fluent reading expands your vocabulary, builds stamina and helps you become a better reader.
     
     
     I PICK "Good Fit Books"

    The students are taught from day one about choosing and selecting books that are just right for their reading level.  They are called "Good Fit Books".

    1. I pick a book

    2. P urpose (What's my purpose for choosing this book? )

    3. I nterest (Does this book interest me?)

    4. C omprehend (Can I comprehend what I'm reading?)

    5. K now (Do I know most of the words?)

     

    Three Ways to Read a Book

    1.  Read the pictures

    2.  Read the words

    3.  Retell the story

    Book Boxes

    Each student in my room has a "book box".   Each book box has a student's number sticker on the front so they can find their box easily and put back on the counter in order after each part of Daily 5.  Their book box contains "Good Fit Books" they have chosen and their Writer's Notebook with a pencil for Work on Writing.  I let my class "Shop for Books" on a weekly basis.  They LOVE this part and they can't wait to choose new books each week.  This builds a sense of responsibility and provides these young readers  a way to monitor their own reading abilities. 

    Building Stamina

    Many parents are amazed to hear their child speak about building "stamina".  It's not a typical word you hear kindergarten students say!  When we begin teaching The Daily 5 parts, the first time we model, instruct, and demonstrate how to do this skill, the students start on their own for 3 minutes.  Every day we add one minute, eventually building their stamina to 30 minutes.  Some days we may only get to do 20-30 minutes depending on special activities, assemblies, or holiday events.  The students "build stamina" for each of the Daily 5 parts.