Magic Words
Magic Words will be sent home. We would appreciate your assistance by helping your child learn the ‘Magic 100 Words’ by reading through the appropriate list together each day or using the helpful ideas for learning the words that will be sent home. The children should find learning these words enjoyable and fun and we stress that every child will show interest at different times and will learn them at their own pace. The Prep Team will integrate and reinforce these words through games, reading and literacy activities in the classroom.
The Prep Team will hear your child read their words and once they can confidently and independently recognise and read them, they will be given a certificate. Your child will then be asked to begin learning the next set of Magic Words. It is important that only concentrate on one colour at a time as too many words at one time can become quite overwhelming.
Students are also encouraged to practice their alphabet.
Reading
Take Home Readers will be sent home. We would like you to spend 10-15 minutes each night ‘sharing’ a book with your child. Some suggestions for you to help your child with their reading:
- Find a quiet place to enjoy the book, preferably not too late in the day.
- Read the book to your child first. Be sure that they can see the words, and point to each word as you say it.
- Talk about the title, cover, pictures and characters.
- Read the book together.
- Be patient – give your child time to predict words.
- If your child finds unknown words, can the picture and/or story line help them work out the words? If so, urge your child to use the pictures and context to find meaning. Otherwise, simply tell them the word without breaking the sense of the story.
- Remember that the purpose of the reader is to foster enjoyment and build confidence. It shouldn’t be seen as a chore.
See Homework Guidelines.
