by Answerbag Staff on December 24th, 2009

Answerbag Staff

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Does your child need to read before first grade?

Answers. 2 helpful answers below.

  • by Laura Agadoni on December 24th, 2009

    Answerbag Experts

    Great Answer

    Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

    On One Hand: Reading Is Not Required to Enter

    Before entering first grade, children should be familiar with the alphabet and be able to match a picture with its first letter. For example, if you show a child a picture of a dog, she should be able to select the letter "d." A child entering first grade should know all the sounds the letters represent. The child should know that books are read from left to right and that spaces separate words, according to Thelaboroflove.com.

    On the Other: Many Children Know How to Read

    Many children do know how to read prior to entering first grade. These children will have a head start on the children who are not yet reading. Children in first grade will often be placed in reading groups that correspond to their reading ability. This may set the stage for how the child perceives himself throughout the school year, according to ReadingRockets.org.

    Bottom Line

    Children do not have to know how to read in order to be in first grade. They can learn how while they are in first grade. However, it is an advantage to the child if she is reading prior to entering first grade.

    Source:

    TheLaborofLove.com: Are There Things My Child Should Know Before Entering First Grade?

    ReadingRockets.org: First Grade Instruction

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  • by Lisa_L8082 on September 6th, 2010

    Lisa_L8082

    Generally speaking yes. Your child should have a grasp of some very basic words before September rolls around. He/she should be able to:
    spell their own name
    recognize all the letters of the alphabet and be able to write most of them
    recognize some 3-letter words such as "the"
    read very simple, familiar picture books that he or she owns and knows very well...don't cover the pictures repetition is very important eventually the child will learn some words simply through constant repetition


    sometimes flash cards are a great way to help your child learn how to read but they must be used in a specific manner. For instance simple 3-letter rhyming words should be the only flashcards used in one game. (bat cat rat mat) there should be a picture on the cards and you should teach the child all the names and discuss the pictures before the game begins, making it fun and predictable (kids get discouraged and feel ashamed when they make reading and spelling mistakes, especially if you are impatient with them)

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