Up until the end of third grade, most children are learning to read.

Beginning in fourth grade, they are reading to learn - using their reading skills to gain knowledge in math, history, science and all other subjects.

KNOW THE FACTS:

• Research shows that children who are not "modestly skilled" readers by the end of third grade are not likely to finish high school
• If a child is not reading on grade level by the end of third grade he or she may not be able to understand as much as half of the material to be studied from fourth grade on
• Many children don't develop needed reading skills due to lots of absence - a child who isn't in school isn't there building a strong foundation in reading
• Many children lose ground during the summer months - a gap that grows over the years
• All children are capable of learning two languages - being bilingual is an asset

Reading on grade level is
CRITICAL
to school success!!

  
WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Make sure all parents are aware of the importance of reading on grade level.
• Help parents understand that being in school every day is important - especially in kindergarten through third grade.
• Help families find access to summer programs that keep children reading.
• Help families that have English as a second language have age-appropriate reading materials in the home.
• Look for a child's
• ability to make letter sounds into words
• knowledge or the connection between written letters and sounds
• vocabulary - understanding lots of written and spoken words
• ability to read rapidly
• ability to understand the meaning of what is read