My name is Patricia Kirwan and I have the distinct honor of filling in for Kathleen Mellor, our National Teacher of the Year. I've been teaching ESL for the past thirteen years, primarily in the elementary schools. However, DMS is an exceptional community and I'm fully enjoying this new experience.
In Language arts, we use the Practical English series which serves to strengthen our listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
We do quite a bit of writing and occasionally share through an Author's Celebration Circle. During circle time we eat, drink, and share our work.
Every student is expected to read at least 25 books and complete response summaries in their journals throughout the year. They should currently be reading their fourth selection.
Additionally, each group chooses the literature for their Reading Class. We partner read, isolate and define vocabulary, use that vocabulary in sentences, work on comprehension, and take tests. Most importantly, we learn to love books!!!! Those that are currently being read include: Island of the Blue Dolphins, Sounder, A Day No Pigs Would Die, and The Family Under the Bridge.
I thoroughly enjoy working with your children and would be thrilled to chat with you regarding their progress. Please feel free to email me (Patricia_Kirwan@nksd.net) or call me anytime at 295-8569.