Building Better Readers 3-4

This course provides a structured language arts experience for 3rd-4th grade students that intentionally integrates phonemic awareness, phonics, grammar, reading comprehension, and writing, while also nurturing a genuine love of reading. Each class begins with phonemic awareness activities to strengthen sound manipulation skills, followed by explicit phonics and grammar instruction to support accurate reading and clear writing. Students then apply these foundational skills through teacher-led read-alouds, learning strategies such as visualizing, predicting, inferring, and summarizing. Hands-on activities, discussion, and guided writing help students deepen understanding. Students will complete independent reading at home and a monthly project based on a book they have read. The goal of this course is to develop strong, thoughtful readers and writers who not only have solid skills, but also truly enjoy reading. (2026-2027)

REQUIREMENTS

Required Text: Reading Detective, grade 3-4

Copy/Supply Fee: $30.00 (paid to Laura Portz at Orientation or first class attended)

Tuition: $370 ($37/month for 10 months, August - May, or $42/month if prorated)

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Laura Portz

M.Ed. in Reading

Laura earned her undergrad degree in education and German from the University of Richmond and taught high school German in the public school system. During that time, she also completed her Master’s degree in Education as a Reading Specialist at VCU and gained experience working as a reading tutor, supporting students with a wide range of learning needs. Laura has homeschooled her two children since kindergarten, and as a family they love to travel, explore the outdoors, and learn together beyond the classroom. She is grateful for the opportunity to teach at Bridge and to partner with families in nurturing a love of learning.