2008 Grant Proposal Details

Literacy Expansion Project   Harris Elementary

Total: $1800

Description:  This project will give students in grades 2-5 the opportunity to read literature novels related to the core reading program theme of the week. At Harris Elementary School, we have adopted the McGraw-Hill Treasures Reading program. In each unit, several chapter books are referenced, to extend student learning. This grant will provide funds to purchase these novels. Students will be encouraged to read these novels in class and at home.

Why is this important?  This project is important because to become excited about reading, students need to read real novels. The chapter books purchased by these grant funds are related to and enforce the weekly reading skills and strategies being taught by the core reading program. The chapter books suggested by the core literacy program are offered at different reading levels. This will allow students of all reading levels to benefit from additional reading materials, reinforcing the core concepts and theme of the week. Another important aspect of this project is the ability to take small novels home. At present, students are discouraged from taking the large reading anthologies home due to the bulk of the book, and the cost of replacement. With access to small novels related to the theme, skills, and strategies of the week, students will have to opportunity to take these books home, thus extending classroom learning into their homes.

Who will be served?  We have approximately 120 students at Harris Elementary, in grades 2-5. All students will benefit from these additional reading materials. Students who are struggling will have books to choose at their reading level, students who are at grade level will have grade level specific novels, and students who are above grade level will also have novels targeted at their reading level.

How will this be evaluated?  The success of the project will be based on two points. 1. Teacher's having easier access (than they do now) to novels related to the theme, skills, and strategies of the week as dictated by the core reading programs. Students having more opportunity to read novels specifically matched to their reading level & related to what they are talking about during reading time in class. 2. Students having more opportunity to read novels specifically matched to their reading level & related to what they are talking about during reading time in class.

Does this build on existing programs?  This proposal builds upon the expectation that all 4J elementary schools including Harris will be teaching a core reading program with fidelity. This grant will provide essential materials thus helping to ensure success and motivation for all students in reading.

Budget:  $75.00 per reading unit to purchase supporting chapter books. There are 6 units per grade level ( $450.00) 2nd Grade $450.00 -- 3rd Grade $450.00 -- 4th Grade $450.00 -- 5th Grade $450.00 -- Total $1800.00

Proposal #:  49