Boost Reading Skills: "Hazel Plays the Keys" – A Common Core Aligned Decodable for Grades 1-2
What is a Decodable Reader?
A decodable reader is a book specifically designed to help emerging readers practice phonics skills they have learned. “Hazel Plays the Keys” is tailored for 1st and 2nd grade readers. It's not just a story; it’s a targeted tool for building reading proficiency.
This decodable reader focuses on several key areas to enhance early literacy:
• Consonant blends
• Identifying initial, medial, and final sounds
• Identifying spelling patterns
• Individual consonant sounds such as /m/, /s/, and /t/
By honing in on these specific skills, the reader helps students decode words more effectively and build confidence in their reading abilities.
Meet Ms. Hazel Scott: The Inspiring Figure
The story in this decodable reader introduces readers to Ms. Hazel Scott, an inspiring figure who loved to play the keys on her piano. The narrative highlights that she was so talented, people would pay to see her sing and play in movies. Ultimately, she even found a way to play on her own show. The text states, "They say she played the keys with the best". The reader also provides a picture of "Ms. Hazel Scott and Mr. Count Basie", and even includes an activity to "Color Ms. Hazel Scott" on page 1.
Aligned with Common Core Standards
Teachers and homeschool parents will appreciate that "Hazel Plays the Keys" aligns with several Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. This ensures that the reading activity supports established educational benchmarks.
Specifically, it supports:
• CCSS.RI.1.2: Identify the main topic and retell key details of a text.
• CCSS.RF.1.2: Demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
• CCSS.RF.1.3: Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
• CCSS.RF.2.3: Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.
• CCSS.RF.2.4: Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
These standards demonstrate the reader’s commitment to developing not just decoding, but also fluency and comprehension in young readers.
Printing Tips for Best Results
For optimal printing of this decodable reader, follow these instructions:
• Set your print setting to landscape.
• Print pages 1 and 2 as front and back (this includes the Title Page/About Page and book pages 1 and 6).
• Print pages 2 and 3 as front and back (this covers book pages 3 and 4, and book pages 2 and 5).
"Hazel Plays the Keys" is a valuable resource for fostering strong reading foundations in young learners. Its focus on essential phonics skills, engaging content, and alignment with Common Core standards make it an excellent addition to any literacy curriculum for 1st and 2nd graders.
