Mrs. Van Cott

Contact Mrs. Van Cott at: cvancott@centraladvantage.org

Welcome to the Library! 

These are the days the elementary classes will have Library:

K4:  yet to be determined

K5:  Thursdays

1st:  Tuesdays

2nd:  Thursdays

3rd:  Fridays

4th:   Fridays

5th:  Fridays

6th:  Thursdays

Students are allowed to take out the number of books that corresponds with their grade level.  Ex.  A fifth grader could take as many as five books.  K4, K5 and 1st grade students all are limited to one book.  Students may keep their books for up to two weeks, videos or DVD's for one week.  In all classes, we stress reading, proper care of books and Library skills.

Speech class:  In Speech class, the students have already performed a "Show and TELL" speech in which they told us "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About ___________(Student), and More".  They used visuals which helped focus their attention on their speech, rather than themselves. 

The next two speeches were reading a Famous Speech, such as the "Challenger Disaster Speech" and a Book Talk Speech, using their favorite or most recently read book.  All of these speeches were designed to get them up in front of the class and to ease the jitters of public speaking.

Now, we are concentrating on Extemporaneous Speeches.  Each student has been asked to imagine a scenario and form his/her introductory, welcoming, acceptance, dedication or presentation speech around that scenario.  They will always have an opportunity to practice during a workshop, where they will be kindly critiqued by myself and the other students.  Then, after some time to work toward improvement, the speech will be presented.  At that point, it will be worth a test grade.

Regarding tests:  We have already had tests on Chapters 1 and 2.   Chapters are usually followed by either  a test or a speech.  Just a few chapters are followed by both.  

We will be reading Chapter 3, ("Basic Speech Techniques") in class after the Ext. speeches have been given.  The students know to expect a quiz after every reading, during the next class period.  There will also be a test after chapter 3.

The next speech will be a demonstration speech, (more information will be coming later).  In November, we try to concentrate on Scripture Memorization speeches and Testimony speeches.

I have been very pleased with the level of cooperation the students have displayed this year.  They seem almost eager to get up in front of the class.  It is a thrill for me to work with such willing students! 

Mrs. Van Cott