Reading and Writing
Reading is considered the fundamental building block of all learning. Literacy research has shown that expert readers are proficient in both decoding and comprehension skills. However, not all readers acquire these skills naturally. A multitude of factors can interrupt or impede the development of reading skills including attention, memory and or linguistic difficulties.
At Centreville School, we recognize the complexity of learning to read and in response offer a high-quality reading program based on scientifically supported research. Our curriculum revolves around the five essential components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and text comprehension. In-class direct instruction to small groups of students provides the opportunity for teacher-led instruction designed for each student’s learning needs.
Reading assessment takes place throughout the school year in an effort to ensure appropriateness of instruction and to monitor progress. When necessary, one-on-one or small-group prescriptive lessons outside the classroom are added to address specific learning needs.
Students at Centreville School are also taught to be effective writers and are encouraged to view writing as not only a tool for communication, but for creative expression. Writing is taught as a process in collaboration with reading and spelling instruction. Students are required to be cognizant of spelling patterns and individual word features and the rote memorization of spelling words is de-emphasized. The result is that students are more motivated to spell well in their everyday writing.
Finally, the use of technology is encouraged when writing to support skill development and increase production.