Read 180 (Period 4)

Read 180 Course Syllabus

English 9AB, 10AB and Strategic Literacy 1AB, 2AB

Instructor:  Mr. Wilkins

(323) 441-4600 Ext.555

SLC: Medical Health Teacher, but this particular program has various SLCs (Global)

What is READ 180?

READ 180 is a complete reading intervention program designed to meet the needs of students in high school whose reading achievement is far below grade level. In most cases, students are far below basic. The program provides direct instruction in reading and helps fill in the gaps in basic skills that are needed in order to read at grade level.  At the same time, the program is a complete language arts program that prepares students to meet the California State Standards which also addresses the skills needed to pass the CAHSEE. The program does this by providing:

• An individualized reading program through computer software
• Instant and continuous assessment
• Reading instruction in comprehension, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, spelling, and writing
• High–interest paperbacks that are at the student’s independent reading level.

Daily Instructional Routines

The class is based on a double period block of time.  Students receive credit for English 9 and English elective credit which is required for graduation.  The class will begin with a brief Whole-Group lesson. Next, students participate in three 20  minute rotations.  These rotations are made up of independent reading time, where students choose paperbacks and audio books to read and do quick writes. Small-Group Instruction, where the teacher provides individualized instruction and support, and students work in their rBooks with the teacher; and reading instruction using the READ 180 Computer Software, where students are offered intensive and individualized practice in reading, spelling, and vocabulary. Each group will consist of no more than 7 students making it possible for the teacher to provide intensive help during Small-Group Instruction.  Because of the change in schedule, there is less time and it is necessary that students rotate quickly without disruptions or behavior problems.   If Tuesday is a shortened schedule, we will have Whole-Group Instruction for half the period, and we will all have Independent Reading all at the same time for the other half of the period.

Expectations for this class:

Students are expected to fully participate in each part of the instructional model so they can make significant gains in their reading levels and writing skills. They are expected to come prepared to learn and to come on time.  This is a participation class and most of the instruction cannot be made up due to absence or wasted time. However, students could read READ 180 books at home and could come in the morning or during lunch to make up computer time, but Small-Group instruction and Whole Group Instruction cannot be made up.  I also enforce school rules and I expect students to follow them. Electronics are to be shut off and put away.  They are a distraction.

Materials needed for this class:

Most materials needed for this class are provided and kept in the classroom, including a binder, which is also used to store a reading log and independent reading books   However, students do need to provide their own notebook paper, pencils, and black pens. Increasingly students are coming to class unprepared.  It is a common practice to borrow from others, but I think this is an unfair practice that takes advantage of those who do come prepared.  Parents, please make sure that your child has supplies.

Textbooks required for this class:

rBook Enterprise Edition  (Interactive Textbook)  L Book (Interactive Textbook)

READ 180 library books and audio books

Computer Software Program

Homework Policy:

All work is done in class.  However, if students are absent, they can make up independent reading at home and they can earn extra credit by doing additional independent reading and quick writes.  There is a reading log provided for homework, and it requires a parent or guardian signature. If students are absent due to illness, they will need to come in on their own time to make up computer software time.  Some students might need to finish writing assignments at home if class time isn’t enough time. Remember though that whole-group and small-group instruction cannot be made up because they are teacher-directed lessons.

Grading Policy:

Students are graded on their participation and on-task performance at each rotation, as well as their rBook activities, writing assignments, time spent on the computer, and scores from computer software and computer tests taken during open testing windows weigh heavily on grades. To make the grade of A or B a student must show progress during testing window exams. Students will take a Scholastic Reading Inventory test periodically to measure their gains in reading level.  This test is given at the beginning of the first semester, before the 10 week grades, and at the end of each semester. Individual improvement on this test is a vital part of the program and a significant part of the student’s grade.  Points are given for each item mentioned above and in general grades are based on the following percentages:

90%=A            80%=B              70%=C        60%=D     59% and below = Fail

Attendance Policy:

Regular attendance, ideally no more than 5 absences per semester, is extremely important.  Some work missed due to illness may be made up at school.  I am available before school, and during advisory. Most work cannot be made up at home because the program includes teacher-directed lessons and use of computer software. Students who are truant do not have the right to make up work.  Therefore, students who ditch are choosing to fail.  I will do my best to notify parents and enlist the help of various support centers and resource personnel to work with parents and students regarding attendance problems including tardiness.

I am dedicated to helping students improve their reading and writing.  What I need most from students and parents is a commitment for the students to be here and ready to work and learn.