Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) Procedures

Mrs. McAllister & Mrs. LentzPeriod 5/6

After the bell ringer, the beginning of every CA class will be dedicated to independent reading. This will be your chance to kick back and relax with any book you want. Reading is a great way to escape into a different world and you get to choose the world you will be a part of each day! It is our goal to help you become a better reader this year and help you find books that interest you. In order for SSR be fun and relaxing for everybody, here are the procedureswe expect you to follow:

When will SSR take place?

Cycle Days 1-5, first 20 minutes of CA class

The bell ringer must be completed first, in the correct format. Teachers will be checking your bell ringer. If it is not done correctly, you will be asked to return to your seat and fix it.

What rules must I follow during SSR?

You are responsible for coming to class with a bookevery day.

If you borrow a book from me, you must sign it out and get a teacher’s initials. Please browse my books during Period 4 or Period 12 only.

You may sit anywhere you’d like during SSR as long as we can see you. Feel free to bring your own pillows in to make yourself feel more comfortable! However, this is a privilege that we will remove if you are not quiet and focused while reading. There must be at least an arms length of space between students.

You may read anything EXCEPT entertainment magazines and comic books.

No one may get up or leave the classroom during SSR unless it is an absolute emergency.

You may use the media center pass to check out a new book during SSR.

How will SSR be graded?

1. Journal Responses (approximately 40 points)

You are responsible for completing one journal entry per cycle for the book you are currently reading.

Journal responses must be 7 sentences MINIMUM.

Journal responses are due every cycle Day 6.

Journal responses must follow the correct format and be written in your journal.

You may work on your journal entries during SSR, DA, Pd. 12, or for homework.

Journal entries will be worth 5 points per cycle. You will lose points for not meeting the requirements listed above, or for turning in a late entry.

2. Participation and Preparation (10 points)You will lose points from this category for the following reasons:

You forgot your book

You are not quiet and focused while reading

3. Book Chats (5 points)

Book Chats will take place on Cycle Day 6.

Book Chats can be done by teachers, students, or in small groups or partners.

Failure to participate in book chats will cause you to lose points.