The teacher-librarian invited 2nd graders to a book tasting. This was an opportunity for students to explore new titles, determine favorite genres or formats, and make plans for reading “wish lists.” Readers always have a next book at the ready!
The teacher-librarian promotes a love of reading with various picture book read alouds, sequencing and retelling activities based on read alouds from the library or classroom, expanding on books with writing prompts, and just plain fun reminders that books take us on all sorts of adventures. When a student figures out reading interests the time and practice necessary for related curriculum skills will come.
The teacher-librarian practiced identifying various non-fiction text structures with grades 3, 4, and 5. Students used both print and electronic texts, looking for key elements that would help them create meaning and organize their new learning. One specific example included 5th grade reviewing major events of the American Revolution. Students practiced notetaking using different text structure anchor charts (empty) as graphic organizers.
The teacher-librarian shared several forms of poetry with various grade levels. Students read and shared beautiful, sad, happy, funny, rhyming, shape, story, and information sharing poems. We looked for repeated lines and alliteration, as well as a few structures like haiku or shape poems.“I didn’t know poetry could be this interesting!” was heard more than once!
The teacher-librarian offered several different biography related activities, including database searching as well as print read alouds. So many great books have been created sharing stories of brave or important people and the ways they have affected history. One example included the first female Bronx Zookeeper Cubs in the Tub (by Candace Fleming). Students made connections between the caretaking of human babies and animal babies.
The teacher-librarian assisted 4th grade in a national parks inquiry activity. Students researched a choice of national parks, learning about several of the possible activities in the area, the wildlife, expected climate, and history. They made budget calculations for travel and accommodations. They used the information to write a persuasive letter to guardians about a possible summer trip.