Something to Brag About

School:: Golden Terrace Elementary
Subject:: Language Arts
Teacher:: Joyce Cordell
Students Impacted:: 540
Grade:: Pre K - 5
Date:: September 4, 2015

Investor

Thank you to the following investor for funding this grant.

in memory of Ruth Hansen - $213.00

Impact to My Classroom

# of Students Impacted: 540

My goal was to increase participation in our Reading Counts program, therefore increasing independent reading and skills. We have had a huge increase in the number of students participating in Reading Counts. Students love getting the brag tags along with other incentives as they reach point goals. I learned that getting teachers on board is important part but even just a few students can inspire their classmates when they see them wearing their brag tags. K, 1st, and 2nd graders have earned over 4000 points thus far this year as compared to less than 400 last year! I did need to adjust my goal expectations as it took longer than I predicted for classes to get started. Also, with the new mandatory iReady program, students had less time computer time to take quizzes. All in all, it has been a huge success! I have already had to reorder some tags and plan to continue next year.

Original Grant Overview

Goal

My goal is to motivate students to increase independent reading time which will result in improved skills. I want to create excitement about reading by celebrating our students' efforts in Scholastic Reading Counts.

What will be done with my students

Reading Counts is a computerized program that allows students to take quizzes on books that they have independently read. Students earn points for the quizzes they pass. Each time students reach a predetermined goal they will come to the media center to be recognized and receive a different "Brag Tag" to display on their library lanyards. At the end of the year, they will receive a ball chain to take home so they can wear all of the tags they have earned. Along with the Brag Tags students will qualify for additional incentives as they earn more points. For example, at ten points students will have their picture taken for our Star Reader Powerpoint which loops throughout the year. The more they read, the more tags and rewards they earn. Other incentives include bookmarks, books, lunch in the library, no uniform day, and an end of the year party!

Benefits to my students

Research has proven the importance of independent reading. As little as fifteen minutes a day can have a big impact especially for struggling readers. Reading Counts motivates students to read and builds confidence! It reinforces comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency skills. It also celebrates success, promotes independence, and accountability. Our Brag Tags and incentives will help to motivate even our most reluctant readers to Read! Read! Read!.

Budget Narrative

The budget is for 8 different Brag Tags that students will earn throughout the year.

Items

#	Item	Cost
1	600 Brag Tags (8 different styles)	$180.00
2	100 Ball Chains	$23.00
3	Shipping	$10.00
	Total:	$213.00

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