“Literacy First” is a pillar of New Summit Charter Academy. We understand that in order for a child to access all subjects, he or she must know how to read. This creates a love of learning.
We believe that all students can learn to read, and it is the responsibility of the teacher, parents, and interventionist to work together to determine how best to support the child. We know that multi-sensory, explicit, sequential, phonics-based instruction has proven to be the most effective.
Often when we think of reading and literacy, our thoughts immediately go to young readers and Elementary Students. But at New Summit Charter Academy, “Literacy First” has benefits for Middle School students as well. Here are three for you to consider.
3 Benefits of Literacy First for Middle Schoolers
Reading Buddies
At New Summit, older students will be reading to emergent readers on an ongoing basis. This advances everyone. The younger students hear what fluent reading sounds like, and the older students have the opportunity to practice their reading aloud. But perhaps the greatest benefit is the long-term relationship that students of differing grades develop over time.
Book Clubs
When older students participate in Book Clubs, they have an opportunity to enjoy a book with others. They can discuss concepts and characters, pick apart plots, and investigate the intricacies of an author’s writing. Reading a book is more fun and engaging with a group of peers!
Finding New Friends…and Heroes
With the rich Core Knowledge curriculum, Middle School students at New Summit can read about a great variety of people who have gone before us. From Johann Sebastian Bach, Martin Luther, and Michelangelo to Socrates, Susan B. Anthony and Shakespeare, your older students will read about characters from history with unforeseen enjoyment. These remarkable individuals of the past will become new friends, and heroes to your New Summit students!