Who’s Reading What?
I have a goal that fifth graders will leave this school knowing how to select a “good fit” book for themselves and loving reading. I also want them to start knowing who they are as readers.
I changed the practice of checking out books this year. Instead of cramming it in the last three to five minutes of the library class, I have either extended the class time and invited teachers to be with their students or have found another time for the classes to come down for book check out. Having the classroom teacher involved with book check out is making a difference. Both of us are talking with students about their choices and guiding them along.
I have witnessed a group of fifth grade boys devour Katherine Lasky’s Ga’Hoole series. One boy even wrote to her and received a response in return. Was that ever a motivator! When I was informed that I didn’t have the second half of the series, I drove to the local book store and got what I could. We are still missing a couple as the store was out.
Other fifth graders are enjoying the Great Illustrated series. Bryanna is in the midst of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I like these series for the sole purpose to introduce students to the classics. They are getting worn and tattered.
Casey, another fifth grader is engrossed in the Fudgemania series by Judy Blume. he loves the camping and the humor of the book.
Tiffany is learning more about President Obama through the book, Yes We Canby Garen Thomas.
A few months ago, I noticed that more students treated book check out time as a social event. Lately, the time is being used to talk more about books. I do fear that if the library is not fully funded next year, I will have to return to book checkout within the class time. That would be most unfortunate. However, without staff to checkout which enables me to circulate among students, I doubt there will be the availability to offer separate times for classes. In turn, will fifth graders leave elementary school as readers who can make good choices and know who they are as a reader.
I just finished listening to Mick Harte was Here by Barbara Park and On My Honor by Marion Duane Bauer. It has been awhile since I both books. I am struck by how both pull the reader in and you understand how each character deals with the loss of the people close to them.
I am currently reading a history of Key West and Grandparenting Through Love and Logic. What are you reading?
Happy Reading.
MsMac
