Outschool
Open currency, time zone, and language settings
Log In

Jump Start to First Grade

Over the next 13 weeks, we’ll dive into the world of reading, exploring letters, sounds, and words to unlock the magic of books. Through interactive lessons, we’ll build a strong foundation in phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Melissa Bosstick
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(15)
Class

What's included

26 live meetings
19 hrs 30 mins in-class hours
Homework
1 hour per week. Each week, students will be asked to use what they are learning in the form of a game and/or worksheet that I provide through the classroom.
Assessment
I will monitor students by formative assessments in class. I will use this to monitor progress and look for areas where reteaching/review is needed.

Class Experience

US Grade 1
Beginner Level
Studies show the importance of phonics for young readers, which is the focus of this 13-week course. Using the science of reading and my background in Orton-Gillingham, I will help your child become a more confident reader and understand how our language works. We will work on skills that will help them in all areas of study. Reading is a part of our daily lives, and all children should have the foundations they need to be proficient readers. 

In this class, we will cover all first-level consonants and vowels, the main digraphs, beginning and ending blends, two-syllable types, and spelling generalizations. Each week, we will highlight a skill and work on blending and spelling activities, along with 'tricky words.'    

*Students need to know the letter names and general sounds of the basic alph bet. This class will move at a moderate pace.  If your child needs more explicit instruction, please reach out, and we can discuss options*

This course is for you if:
-your child is a beginning reader 
-your child is struggling with reading or spelling
-your child needs a new way to break down words for understanding
-your child is reading below grade expectation


I will also provide opportunities in class for students to read aloud if they choose and to listen as I read a ud.  Listening to read-aloud is a great way to build vocabulary and improve working memory. 


Students must have a notebook/folder and writing paper for CS.  They will also need to be able to print works etc. I try to limit the number of pages to print and only send the ones I feel are necessary.  I will also provide a PDF of my writing sheet. This can be printed off and laminated or put in a sheet protector and used with dry-erase markers instead of writing paper.

Learning Goals

Students will improve their understanding of phonetics as it applies to decoding and encoding to become better readers and develop a better understanding of spelling concepts.
learning goal

Other Details

Supply List
I will provide course material in the form of a pdf.
Students will need to have a notebook for class.
I ask that students have writing paper and pencil (I will also provide a pdf of my writing form that can be printed and laminated to reuse in class)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined July, 2020
5.0
15reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Education from Western Governors University
I am a passionate and dedicated Special Education teacher with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field. With over 15 years of experience under my belt, I have honed my skills in teaching the highly effective Orton-Gillingham reading approach and advocating for students with Dyslexia and other Special Education needs.

My goal as an educator is to foster a supportive and enjoyable classroom environment where every student feels empowered and confident to engage actively in their own educational journey. I firmly believe that education should be a personalized experience that caters to the unique strengths and challenges of each individual student.

To achieve this, I employ a range of cognitive teaching methods that are specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of my students. I firmly believe in providing structured, explicit, multi-sensory, and systematic instruction that targets the specific areas of difficulty for each student. By employing these evidence-based strategies, I ensure that my students receive the support they need to develop essential reading and language skills.
In my classroom, I create a warm and inclusive atmosphere that encourages collaboration, respect, and understanding. I strive to build strong relationships with my students, their families, and other professionals involved in their education, fostering a team approach that maximizes student success.

I am passionate about advocating for students with Dyslexia and other Special Education needs, both within and beyond the classroom. I actively engage in professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the field. This enables me to provide the most effective and innovative instruction to my students, empowering them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

If you are interested in exploring tutoring opportunities with me, please don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create a customized plan that addresses your child's unique needs and sets them on a path to success. Let's embark on this educational journey together and empower your child to thrive in their academic pursuits.

"Teaching is not about telling and learning it is not about being told.  Just telling someone something isn't learning. Students have to do it, apply it, internalize it. It's about giving them exposure and practice."  Jan Wasewicz

Reviews

Live Group Course
Share

$60

weekly
2x per week, 13 weeks
45 min

Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-8
2-4 learners per class

This class is no longer offered
About
Support
SafetyPrivacyCA PrivacyLearner PrivacyYour Privacy ChoicesTerms
Financial Assistance
Get The App
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
© 2025 Outschool