“The reading of all good books is like conversation with the finest [people] of the past centuries” ~ Descartes

 

Reading is not only entertaining, it is essential. Research is clear that when children read outside of the classroom, they generally do better in school. Not only does reading broaden a student’s vocabulary and deepen comprehension, but in turn, reading leads to better mastery of spelling and writing skills. So, encourage your children to read, and often. Read with them, and around them, and to them. Remember also, unabridged audio books are widely available in libraries and are great for long road trips, and Kindle Readers can now read books aloud to students as well. As educators and parents, we desire for children to love reading books–books that speak to children’s hearts, shape their character, challenge their thinking, and captivate their minds by having unimaginable adventures with places and people from all around the world.

Tallahassee Classical School requires that all incoming scholars read at least two books from their assigned reading list.

On August 12, 2022, scholars in kindergarten through fifth grade need to be prepared to share with their class about one of the books that they read. Their oral presentation will include:

• The name(s) of the main character(s)
• The setting
• A 1-3 minute summary of the plot
• Why they did or did not like the story

The scholars are encouraged to dress up as one of the characters in the book or bring in a prop for their presentation. They may use notecards for their presentation if they would like to do so.

Sixth through tenth grade scholars need to prepare a one page report, due August 12, 2022, summarizing one of the books that they read from their assigned list. The report needs to include:

• The author’s name
• Title of the book
• Your name
• The name(s) of the main character(s)
• The setting
• A summary of the book
• 1-2 sentences regarding your thoughts about the book

Although only two books are required for all incoming scholars, we do recommend that families soak up as many of the wonderful titles as possible-the more the better!

Reading Tips for Parents:

Incoming Kindergarten and 1st grade: 

The most important thing you can do to build reading readiness for your child is to read to them and with them. Establish a routine that devotes time every day to reading aloud with your child. At this age, listening to a parent read will expand their vocabulary and broaden their interests. Books that rhyme are especially helpful and enjoyable to children at this age.

Incoming 2nd and 3rd grade: 

As with the emerging readers,continue your routine that devotes time every day to reading aloud with your child. Students in second grade should be reading aloud with parents and, if ready, take turns reading to each other. At this age, listening to a parent read will continue to expand their vocabulary and broaden their interests. Don’t forget to be asking the “Why do you think…” and “What do you think…” questions along the way.

Incoming 4th through 8th grade: 

With your reader becoming more independent, do not mistake that reading aloud and together is no longer beneficial. Some of these stories’ themes and concepts will grow more challenging, in which discussion is crucial to help your student think through and develop their own ideas. Continue to read together and enjoy building vocabulary and rich conversation.

As you select your books from the reading lists this summer, do not limit yourself to only your child’s grade level. Feel free to browse the previous lists and enjoy some other titles of beautiful literature that your child, or even you, have missed along the way.

Please click on the appropriate graphic below to access the suggested reading list for your child. Happy reading!

Hope Carrasquilla

Dean of Curriculum and Instruction