Balanced Literacy: Recent classroom research shows that literacy develops best when a balanced program is in place. At the center of our program is the reading and writing workshop, which includes a mini-lesson (explicit modeling and guided practice), independent reading or writing, and partner time. In addition to the workshop, the other components of a balanced literacy framework include: Interactive read-alouds, shared reading/writing; Phonics/Word Study; Small Group Instruction (guided reading, strategy lessons, and interventions).
Reading
At ISB, our curriculum aims at creating independent, life-long readers through the development of students' comprehension, fluency, and stamina. Kindergarten students will begin with a focus on narrative sense by retelling rich literature by "reading" the illustrations. Throughout the year, students will focus on developing their reading skills and related strategies with both fiction and non-fiction texts.
Writing
Kindergarten students will begin with a focus on storytelling and personal narratives, moving from oral telling about the story they've drawn, to labeling, to sentences. Students will develop their skills within the following types of writing: narrative, informational, and persuasive. During writers' workshop, students will engage in the writing process of generating ideas, rehearsing, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing.
Listening and Speaking
Speaking and listening are woven into many areas of the curriculum throughout the year, especially in their partnership work in literacy, math, and science, as they strive to develop skills related to attentive listening, collaborative communication and clear presentation of ideas.
