| The Reading Program | |
| - The reading program is designed to encourage students to develop a lifelong love of reading. We aim to improve student's reading skills and promote reading as an enjoyable passtime. | |
| Diagnostic Testing- Here at RJHS, students are tested at least twice a year to determine their reading levels. The test we use is the STAR diagnostic reading test. It is a computerized assessment of reading comprehension and vocabulary. Students, teachers, and parents are made aware of the scores. These evaluations are used to encourage students to improve their reading or to help them choose appropriate booksl from the school library. The STAR diagnostic test is designed to be used alongside the Accelerated Reader program. Knowing their reading level, a student can easily find a book from AR to suit his or her level. | |
| Zone of Proximal Development. Although a student's reading assessment scores may indicate a particular grade level, we support the practice of encouraging students to read books that are within one-and-a-half grade levels above or below that number. This ensures that the student will read books that are challenging and satisfying. | |
| Teaching Reading in the Content Areas. All teachers are asked to teach reading strategies within their subjects. This means that teachers may be working with twin texts, vocabulary practice, prediction charts, and graphic organizers. It has been proven successful that students who are taught reading within subject areas read and understand better. Teachers are also asked to determine the reading levels of their text books. This helps them to identify students who may be reading at a lower grade level and therefore may have more trouble understanding the text. | |
| Book Fairs and Library Promotional Programs. Book Fairs, poetry slams, booktalks, and colorful displays are examples of library programs that encourage students to read. Drawing from public relations and motivational theory, these activities occur during the year to inspire students to find books they want to read and to read more of them. | |
| Summer Reading Program. Every year, Brunswick County Public Schools sponsors a Summer Reading Challenge. Junior High students are always encouraged to participate. The library is always open at least one day a week during the summer months (usually Monday mornings) for students to check out books. During summer school, the library actively promotes a motivated program building on themes and collaborative planning with summer school teachers . | |
| Virginia Young Readers. In the state of Virginia, a team of educators nominates and publicizes a list of excellent age-appropriate titles they feel Virginia students would enjoy. These titles are purchased by the library. After reading any four of the books, students may cast their votes for favorites. Students from all over the state participate and the winning author receives an award . | |