Literacy is the cornerstone for all things experienced and imagined. Having these books in our library would help my students go beyond their own experiences and thinking. When my students pick up a book, like "Jabari Jumps", they won't just think, "He is finally jumping off the diving board for the first time", but maybe think, "If he is brave enough to do this, then maybe I can be brave and try new things too", or "Now, I know I'm not the only person who fears something". Books bring out very powerful moments for my students, because they can really connect to them and build interest in topics/themes that reel them in. Having these engaging books to read to them, gives me a chance to guide them towards becoming readers and writers for life.
We will use these books every day to "spark" their imagination across all subject areas. Not only do we use these books as readers, but we also use them for writing purposes to notice what great authors do. For example, I like to read "Saturdays and Teacakes", which we discuss all the things we love about the text, then I model how my readers can write a review for the book. Students select their favorite book to read, and write their own review. Frequently, my students select picture books for this, so I want to give them more opportunities for choice. We use these books to break down concepts that would otherwise be lost to most in their chapter books. I believe that if we want to empower learners everywhere, we will put a book in their hands.
About my class
Literacy is the cornerstone for all things experienced and imagined. Having these books in our library would help my students go beyond their own experiences and thinking. When my students pick up a book, like "Jabari Jumps", they won't just think, "He is finally jumping off the diving board for the first time", but maybe think, "If he is brave enough to do this, then maybe I can be brave and try new things too", or "Now, I know I'm not the only person who fears something". Books bring out very powerful moments for my students, because they can really connect to them and build interest in topics/themes that reel them in. Having these engaging books to read to them, gives me a chance to guide them towards becoming readers and writers for life.
We will use these books every day to "spark" their imagination across all subject areas. Not only do we use these books as readers, but we also use them for writing purposes to notice what great authors do. For example, I like to read "Saturdays and Teacakes", which we discuss all the things we love about the text, then I model how my readers can write a review for the book. Students select their favorite book to read, and write their own review. Frequently, my students select picture books for this, so I want to give them more opportunities for choice. We use these books to break down concepts that would otherwise be lost to most in their chapter books. I believe that if we want to empower learners everywhere, we will put a book in their hands.
Read more