From INTRODUCTION to the Yup'ik Reading Series

There is no single best method for teaching every child to read. One child learns more effectively using one method while another learns better a different way. At the same time, the teaching of reading cannot really be separated from teaching other language skills. Therefore, this manual combines teaching reading and language using methods which take into account different learning styles and integrate reading with language arts. Best of all, the methods suggested have been used and found to be very effective.
Using these methods, students learn to read by listening to their teacher read aloud in unison and then reading aloud with the teacher. They learn by reading with peers and by cooperative learning. They learn phonics and decoding skills to help them unlock new words. They learn to read through context clues, making predictions and studying pictures. They learn a sight word vocabulary and apply it to text outside the classroom. The stories are made more appealing by integrating them with science, social studies, math, and art through the Follow-up Activities.
Since reading is not an isolated skill and it is learned in conjunction with other language skill, students will write stories, personal experiences, poetry, puppet shows, plays, and letter. They will practice spelling, give oral presentations, and do research. They will participate in group discussions, conduct interviews, and perform the plays they have written. They will use language to communicate in a variety of ways. They will learn grammar and writing conventions through revising and editing their work and through "Daily Oral Language."
In the primary grades, language arts should be scheduled for at least two hours daily. The time does not need to be in one block, although many teachers find this an effective way to schedule and to integrate language activities. The two hours includes reading, vocabulary study, phonics, handwriting, creative writing, spelling, listening, speaking and all aspects of language learning. Language activities should be integrated with other subjects used as science and social studies and so will carry over into those subjects.
The methods for teaching are outlined in the beginning of the manual, following the introduction and in Lessons, Section 1. Mastery of the methods requires careful reading and rereading, practice and repetition by the teacher. Once the methods are mastered and they are combined and integrated during every lesson, they can be used to teach reading and language arts using any textbook or without the use of standard textbooks. As new material is developed in the Yup'ik language, it can easily be incorporated into the lessons.
In order to teach effectively, it is essential that a teacher be well organized and well prepared. For this reason, it is important to read each lesson carefully and prepare ahead. The Follow-up Activities are as important as the basic lessons so equal time and attention need to be given to preparing these activities.
Use the basic methods presented at the beginning of the manual as well as the activities and ideas in the Supplement. Adapt them to the needs and interests of the students in your classroom. Let the manual, your enthusiasm, and your creativity be your guide.
Cost: $18.75


Information about the resource can be found at:

ANKN Clearinghouse P.O. Box 756730 Fairbanks, AK 99775-6730 Tel: (907) 474-5897 or email: ANKN Clearinghouse

Charles Kashatok Yup'ik Curriculum Specialist P.O.Box 305 Bethel, Alaska 99559 Tel: (907) 543-4853 or email: Charles_Kashatok@fc.lksd-do.org

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