A Life filled with Literacy
A newsletter for Saint Anne School (Nov. 2017)

By: Nicole Hughes, Literacy Coach
Reading a BOOK/ Watching the MOVIE
November and December are notoriously busy times for families. Since the weather is getting colder, and families are visiting more often, it is also the PERFECT time to spend quality time with your children. Life is very busy, so don't just wait for the ideal time to read with your child. Schedule it! Set an alarm on your phone or write it in the calendar like it is an appointment.
Over the next few weeks, spend time reading a few books or a novel together. Then, watch the movie version as a family. Your children will love this quality time with you, and it is a meaningful way to make connections with books.
Suggestions for Reading Aloud
Lost and Found (Preschool- K) What is a boy to do when a lost penguin shows up at his door? Find out where it comes from, of course, and return it. But the journey to the South Pole is long and difficult in the boy’s rowboat. A poignant, funny, and child-friendly story about friendship lost . . . and then found again. | The Lorax (preschool-3rd) "Unless someone like you...cares a whole awful lot...nothing is going to get better...It's not." Long before saving the earth became a global concern, Dr. Seuss, speaking through his character the Lorax, warned against mindless progress and the danger it posed to the earth's natural beauty. | The Night at the Museum (K-3rd)Like most good movies, this one was a BOOK first! In this charming, funny picture book that started it all, Larry becomes a night guard at New York’s Museum of Natural History. Originally published by Barron’s in 1993, this mystery-comedy picture book features the author’s original captivating, hilarious, full-color illustrations on every page. |
Lost and Found (Preschool- K)
The Lorax (preschool-3rd)
Long before saving the earth became a global concern, Dr. Seuss, speaking through his character the Lorax, warned against mindless progress and the danger it posed to the earth's natural beauty.
The Night at the Museum (K-3rd)
Like most good movies, this one was a BOOK first!
In this charming, funny picture book that started it all, Larry becomes a night guard at New York’s Museum of Natural History. Originally published by Barron’s in 1993, this mystery-comedy picture book features the author’s original captivating, hilarious, full-color illustrations on every page.
Hoot (3rd-8th) This Newbery Honor-winning, hilarious Floridian adventure involves new kids, bullies, alligators, eco-warriors, pancakes, pint-sized owls, and more. | James and the Giant Peach (Family Read-Aloud) If you are looking for a book that will appeal to all ages, Roald Dahl has several for you! The movie version of James and the Giant Peach won't disappoint, either! | Matilda (Audio choice) I have recommended Matilda before, but it bears repeating, especially in this category. The movie is a clever, engaging adaptation of this classic favorite. Before watching the movie, listen to the audio version! |
Hoot (3rd-8th)
James and the Giant Peach (Family Read-Aloud)
Literacy in action at SAS
Fall HaikusThe Fall leaves are just begging to be described! I took the 6th and 8th graders outside to watch the leaves fall. They collected their favorite ones and wrote haikus about Fall. | Fall description"Autumn, the year's last, loveliest smile." Willliam Cullen Bryant | The Tell-Tale HeartMrs. Robinette read The Tell-Tale Heart with the 7th grade, and they loved it! I was very impressed with their comprehension of it. We did a follow-up writing activity (complete with props). |
Fall Haikus
The Fall leaves are just begging to be described! I took the 6th and 8th graders outside to watch the leaves fall. They collected their favorite ones and wrote haikus about Fall.
The Tell-Tale HeartHave you read this famous short story? Do you realize Poe never reveals if the narrator is a male or female? Read it, again- this is a story that never fails to thrill! | 4th grade Scary StoriesDuring October, the 4th graders worked on a scary story unit! I love the creativity of this class! | Preschool dragonfly eyesThis month, the preschool students read about animal eyes! They made their own colorful, glittery dragonfly eyes. |
The Tell-Tale Heart
Have you read this famous short story? Do you realize Poe never reveals if the narrator is a male or female? Read it, again- this is a story that never fails to thrill!
4th grade Scary Stories
During October, the 4th graders worked on a scary story unit! I love the creativity of this class!
#WEareSAS #weareLITERACY