Reading Logs

 Hello,

I'm not a big fan of reading logs. I haven't used them for the past couple of years because I don't think that they are motivating for young readers. The last thing I want to do is make reading a chore. I would probably watch less Netflix if I had to log everything I watched. That being said, 6th grade is going back to reading logs. 

I made this decision because reading is the most important work that your child can do for their brain development, and I attribute part of the lack of at-home reading that I've seen over the past two years, to less accountability. It was still assigned. I asked about it almost every day. I just came to the conclusion that reading logs, while no one's favorite thing to do, work better than the alternatives that I came up with. And at the end of the day, I want kids doing some reading outside of school. 

I've tried to make our reading log as user friendly as possible. Students can keep track of minutes or pages. 7th graders at WCS keep track of pages, so we at least introduce that possibility. The parent signature is optional until a student gives me reason to require it. If I start doubting what a student claims to be reading at home, I'll contact their guardian and ask for them to sign for a while to help with student accountability. So I won't put more on your plate unless I feel that I have to. 

We are starting the year with a goal of 120 minutes or 70 pages a week to obtain a work habit grade of an A. This is Attaining the standard. 150 minutes or 85 pages will earn an E, Exceeding the standard. Reading five days a week is also part of the standard. This is because reading it all in one or two sittings isn't nearly as helpful with brain development. 

Thank you for helping support your students at home. Please remember that children tend to emulate what they see adults do at home. If you would like a copy of any of their reading books so you can read at home, I'll make it happen. 

Have a great night. 

Mr. Shea

PS. I will be out tomorrow, Friday, due to an afternoon funeral in Calais. 

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