How many lessons are in each level of the reading program? Signature K- 160 Lessons Signature 1- 160 Lessons Signature 2- 145 Lessons Signature 3- 140 Lessons Signature 4 - 120 Lessons Signature 5 - 120 Lessons
How long does it take to do a lesson? In Signature K and 1, a reading lesson takes 30-45 minutes. In Signature 2-5, a reading lesson takes 90 minutes.
How is a decision made to move a student between groups? Teachers, administrators, and other reading experts look at the student data every week for students in the Reading Mastery program. Very high scores or low scores over a period of time indicate that a change in level may be appropriate for a child. Usually, further testing is done. Students who receive scores of at least 90% on their daily work and tests are considered to be placed correctly, and are achieving the expected success at their level.
Why does the program have special print in Signature Kindergarten and Signature 1? The special print makes learning to read easier. Sounds that have two letters (th, sh) are connected to remind students that they make only one sound. Students are able to handle more difficult words sooner.
When does the special print go away? It gradually goes away. By Lesson 92 of Signature 1, all print is regular.
Do students have trouble reading when the special print goes away? Not at all, the changes are gradual, so the students are not at all unprepared. In addition, students receive practice in reading regular print starting at about Signature K lesson 120.
Why do the students learn the sounds of the letters before they learn the names of the letters? Children need to know the sounds of letters in order to read. They need to know the names of letters in order to spell. The spelling program begins in Signature K at Lesson 51.
If my child is placed in Fast Cycle, what does that mean? Your child will be skipping lessons in the program. Fast cycle provides reading instructions with fewer repetitions.
Why don't I see very much homework coming home with my child? This program does not generate homework because students do their independent work with teacher guidance. You should see completed work coming home every week.
What can I expect my child to bring home from the reading program? In general, you should see check outs and independent work coming home. For more details for your child's level, please see the parent overview letter for your child's level.
What can I do at home to help my child be a better reader? * Read books that both of you enjoy. *Let your child read to you. *Read the checkouts together. *Go over the independent work and new vocabulary together.