Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/477973
students enjoy will reel them in. Because most of my students are barely starting to read, illustrations as well as length are important in keeping their attention. As a Spanish bilingual teacher, I teach reading in a slightly different way. Spanish is very syllabic, so through the use of our phonics program, Estrellita, I lay the foundation that helps my students see them- selves as readers. We begin with initial sounds, and now we are putting syllables together to make words and sentences. Once they uncover the key to decoding, their fluency will increase, which will allow me to focus on comprehension during guided reading groups. Reagan: Start with phonemic awareness, basic blending and segmenting. Teach those high-frequency words and give your younger kids plenty of time to practice them. Let them pick the books that they would like to read, even if they choose a book that isn't at their level — let them pic- ture-walk. Remember, you want them to want to read! How do you use California Reads book recommendations? Alberto: I introduce new books to my students. As teachers, we often get so immersed in our classroom and routines that we use the same books year after year. Seeing a new book that I can tie into a particular theme always makes me excited because of how I can relate it to math, art, or other curricular areas. Reagan: I always pick up a copy of the pre-K or lower elementary book. This year I lucked out because the selection is One, by Kathryn Otoshi. I love this book, such a great take on standing up to a bully. It just takes one! Bill: I read the recommended books aloud to my classes. This year, I am teaching independent study. I will allow my students to read I Am Malala, by Malala Yousafzai, as an introduction to a research project that will culmi- nate with a written report. Janet: I read many of the books to my students so that they can be ex- posed to quality fiction and nonfiction. I also have shared the book recom- mendations with our local public library. How about online resources? Reagan: I still love [the PBS TV series] "Reading Rainbow," and yes, there's an app for that at ReadingRainbow.com. Alberto: My students love Starfall.com. Many of my bilingual kindergart- ners speak English at home with their siblings, so even though they are learning to read and write in Spanish in my class, they love reading books and playing the games in English as well. Janet: I especially like arbookfind.com. One can search for Accelerated Reader books based on authors, topics, and titles of books. Bill: Amazon.com. www.cta.org/californiareads CTA's California Reads program offers teacher-approved quarterly book recommendations for multiple age groups, including adults. Find a list of this year's recommended books at www.cta.org/recommendedreading. Go Online @ PREPARING TOMORROW'S EDUCATORS As one of California's top teacher credentialing institutions, Brandman University is proud to provide quality programs that help educators advance their personal and professional goals. Authorizations Credentials Bachelor's Master's Doctoral Brandman University, a part of the Chapman University System, is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) that offers academic programs both online and at over 25 campuses throughout California and Washington. 1654-1114-2014 Apply Now brandman.edu/education