FAQ

• What is Team Read?

  Team Read is a very simple easy way for volunteer tutors to teach second graders a set of words known as Fry words by using flash cards and fun word games.

• What are Fry sight words?

  This is a comprehensive list of words also known as “sight” words or high frequency words.  It is important for young readers to instantly recognize these words by sight in order to increase reading fluency.
  
  Dr. Edward Fry expanded the Dolch Sight word list and came up with the 1,000 most common words and ranked them in order of frequency of use. The first 300 words in the Fry word list represent 67% of all the words that students encounter in their reading.

• Why focus on sight words?

  The National Institute for Literacy said, “Having a bank of sight words releases a reader’s attention for comprehension and for figuring out more difficult and less frequent words.”

• Why only second graders?

  Research from the Annie E. Casey Foundation shows children who can’t read proficiently by third grade are four times more likely than grade level readers to drop out of high school.

• How much volunteer time does it take?

  You are asked to serve a minimum of one hour a week for the entire school year.  Tutoring begins in September and continues through the first week of May with breaks according to the school holiday calendar.

• Will I be trained?

  Yes, you will be expected to attend a two and one-half hour training workshop to help prepare you to tutor.  You will also be given a packet of materials to support your tutoring efforts at the school.

• When and where will I meet my students?

  Each school designates the days and time slots available for tutoring and you will choose the location and time most convenient for your schedule. Most of the tutoring is scheduled during the hours that the school is in session.

• What if I need help during my tutoring session?

  The primary concern of the Shelby County Schools Team Read staff is to be sure that you have the tools and information that you need to serve effectively and with confidence during your volunteer service. You will also be introduced to a designated site coordinator at your school that will be there to provide help.  In many cases, there will also be a “lead volunteer” from your faith-based group who will provide direction too.

  More questions…………….. please call 416-5732