commentary and parenting
[ dear teacher ]
Dear Teacher Reading expectations, “troublemakers” and organizational skills Marge Eberts & Peggy Gisler
Expected Reading Accomplishments from Pre-primer to 11th Grade
Child Is Labeled a Trouble Maker
Q:
How do I know if my young children in kindergarten and third
Q:
A:
Report cards and teacher conferences should already have told
grade are reading on grade level? Also, can you give me a list of books for these grades? — Want to Know
Since third grade my child has been labeled as a trouble maker. He is currently in fifth grade and everything he does no matter what he gets a detention. We have a meeting
scheduled with his teacher because I have heard that this information is
you about your children's reading level in both grades. If not, ask their teachers for this information. Be aware that reading on grade level can mean different accomplishments at different
schools. Plus, you should expect bright children to be reading one or more years above their grade level.
being sent over to his middle school – labeling him even before he arrives? — Concerned
A:
You have been hearing about your son’s behavior for several years now. Why did he start acting this way in third grade? What happened in third grade to make the year different from first and
second grade before he had a label? And the big question: Why hasn’t On our website, www.dearteacher.com, you will find the San Diego Quick
something been done to change his behavior by you or the school?
Assessment that will let you quickly gauge your children’s reading ability. It is the first item under “Checklists.” All you have to do is have your children
As far as his records go, you will not be able to take out any information
read lists of words. This is a first-step screening procedure. However,
that teachers have put into them. However, you can look at the records and
research has confirmed that it is a fairly accurate estimate of children’s
put in information expressing your take on his behavior for the middle
ability to read. Not only will it tell you the grade level where your child is
school teachers to see.
actually reading. It will also tell you the grade levels where they can read independently and those where they will struggle.
Realistically it is past time for your son to change his image. When you meet with his teacher, ask what can be done right now to help your son
The best way to get a list of suggested books for your children to read is to
eliminate the troublemaker label. Suggest that a behavior modification plan
request one from your child's teacher or the school librarian. It also can be
be developed immediately so some improvement in his behavior can begin
helpful to ask friends about books their children are enjoying.
to take place at once.
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