PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN:
In preschool at SMCS, students read aloud books that are thematic, usually obtained from the Public Library and from various lists that recommend books for children. We sing nursery rhymes and folk songs. The goal is to develop a love of reading so that the Kindergarten focus is on more complicated themes.
LOWER ELEMENTARY:
Students in 1st grade are ready to distinguish between fiction and non-fiction books, which prepares them to begin reading with fluency and comprehension in 2nd grade. In 3rd grade, students learn dictionary and thesaurus skills along with other reference material in order to develop a strong foundation for a varietiy of classroom projects such as the Science Fair.
UPPER ELEMENTARY:
Fourth graders check out their own books at self-service stations, easily use the library card catalog system, recognize the old school card catalog, and learn the Dewey Decimal System used in school and public libraries. In 5th grade, students are comfortable in the library using all of the resources available. They also become aware of the Ebsco Database system used in school, public and academic libraries for research purposes.
Reference links for all students and parents are provided below:
Britannica Online
Internet Public Library
Houston Chronicle
Houston Public Library
Catholic News Service
Harris Public Library
MLA Style Center
EBSCO Host (username is S2689625; password is Martha)
HAISLN Recommended Reading Lists
Kingwood Library