Welcome to the 2009-10 school year at SMA. This year SMA has taken on four literacy and language initiatives, in ALL classes.
The first is a continuation of the last two years—READING. Once again, reading is a focus of the school. All students are required to carry an independent reading book, of their choice, at all times. When there are a few minutes before a class ends, students will be asked to take out their independent book and read. It is strongly suggested that all cadets read a minimum of 15 pages a day. Research indicates that the only way to improve reading abilities—is to read. Fifteen pages a day is the minimum suggested in order for improvement to be noticed. Of course, we would encourage reading more than 15 pages daily.
What will be different this year are the consequences for when a cadet does not have an independent reading book with them. A book of the cadet’s choice is considered part of their uniform; therefore, if a cadet does not have a book points will be deducted from their employability grade in that class. The teacher will provide them with an article from their content area and the student will be required to submit a summary after reading the article. The second offense results in a referral. Employability is 20% of a class grade and includes being prepared for class.
Students may visit the media center, during lunch and after school, or visit Major Donehew’s room (117) for help in selecting a book. Also, most teachers have a classroom library and they are willing to help guide students with their selections and lend those books.
The second initiative is WRITING. All content area classes will be doing, at least, weekly writing. Writing will consist of short answer responses, long answer responses, essays, research projects, and/or quick writes.
The third initiative is VOCABULARY. Since one can only learn and understand the world around them through language, vocabulary is a vital component of academic success. Additionally, comprehension and critical thinking require strong vocabulary skills. SMA will have a word of the week that will be announced at Monday morning formations. Teachers will display the word of the week in their classrooms and everyone on campus will use the word as frequently as possible during the week. We encourage you to ask your student what the word of the week is, and use it at home too.
CRITICAL THINKING is the fourth initiative. Critical thinking transcends subject area divisions; it examines elements of thought implicit in all reasoning. Critical thinking employs a set of skills and questioning strategies that help guide students to an enhanced clarity and better reading comprehension.
If you have any questions about the initiatives or if you would like help suggesting reading materials, please contact Pamela Donehew, Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach, by using the comment box below, via email or phone at SMA.
