August 31, 2015Dear Parents,

Tonight will be the first night of D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) homework. Please help your child create healthy homework habits by finding an appropriate time, along with a quiet place for him/her to read.

The book in your child’s bag is a book we chose together. In first grade we talk a lot about choosing “just-right” books. Ask your child what makes a book just right (have him/her try to explain “I PICK” and the “Five Finger rule”).

Your child should read aloud the book in his/her book-bag for 10 minutes. If your child reads the book quickly, have him/her read it again (perform it, read to a sibling or to the DOG!). Repetitive reading promotes fluency: pace, phrasing, and expression. It also aids in comprehension.

Please review the papers in your child’s D.E.A.R. folder for ideas on what you can do before, during, and after reading.Also, please fill out the D.E.A.R. log, which is bound in the D.E.A.R. folder.

D.E.A.R. homework should take place Monday through Thursday. D.E.A.R. books will not come home Friday, but reading over the weekend is encouraged! Thank you for your help and support!

Sincerely, Mrs. Warstler and Mrs.

Hildahl