Language Arts In Language Arts this year we are using the comprehensive, research-based reading program Treasures, by Macmillan. This program offers a wealth of high quality literature to engage learners. Explicit instruction and ample practice ensure students’ growth in reading proficiency. Each week’s lesson integrates grammar, writing, and spelling for a total language arts approach. By the end of 1st grade, most children have learned the foundational skills of word analysis and have a basic understanding of the elements offiction and non-fiction. Second grade material will focus on advancing children’s phonemic awareness, phonics and high-frequency word recognition skills, extending their understanding of narrative and informational text, and increasing their efficiency in written communication. Macmillan has an awesome parent website with suggested activities. Take advantage of this useful resource throughout the year… http://activities.macmillanmh.com/reading/treasures/ The Daily Five I will be incorporating “The Daily Five” method to help children become more successful readers and writers. Briefly, the “Daily Five” builds literacy independence on a daily basis. The areas we will focus on are called: *Read to Self *Read to Someone *Work on Writing *Listen to Reading *Spelling/Word Work The Daily Five is a framework the children practice and use during choice or independent work times. Once they have become “experts” at Daily Five activities, small groups or Book Clubs will begin. These Book Clubs will meet and work with a variety of fiction and nonfiction materials. The focus will mostly be on nonfiction. Note: There will be times the class will be working on special projects that will take the place of the Daily Five.