Today was a great day in grade 9 Language Arts. We spent most of the class "shopping" for books. Starting next week we are going to read at the beginning of class, three times a week, for 20 to 30 minutes. I want students to have choice in this reading. To make sure that everyone has something they are interested in, we needed to explore what is out there. So we did.
I showed them my classroom library and spoke about particular books, genres and authors. We then had a look at the Chapters website where I showed the students a variety of categories and how the site will make recommendations based on choices they initially make. Finally, we had time to talk with each other and visit the library if so desired.
The result was a buzz of talk and activity. Many grabbed a Chromebook and headed to the Chapters website. Others ran to the front of the room to grab the books I had been talking about. Some went to the library and spent time looking and talking with the librarian. I had asked that everyone compile a list of at least three books. Everyone did this. In fact, some filled their sheet.
It was a simple approach that took about 40 minutes. The results were incredible. I think, too often, we sell the kids short when it comes to reading. They are interested, and they do want to spend time. Now it is up to us to help them find these books, to help build their confidence if they are reluctant, and to help provide the time for great reading to happen./uploads/2/3/8/5/23854712/americanization_webquest.docx
I showed them my classroom library and spoke about particular books, genres and authors. We then had a look at the Chapters website where I showed the students a variety of categories and how the site will make recommendations based on choices they initially make. Finally, we had time to talk with each other and visit the library if so desired.
The result was a buzz of talk and activity. Many grabbed a Chromebook and headed to the Chapters website. Others ran to the front of the room to grab the books I had been talking about. Some went to the library and spent time looking and talking with the librarian. I had asked that everyone compile a list of at least three books. Everyone did this. In fact, some filled their sheet.
It was a simple approach that took about 40 minutes. The results were incredible. I think, too often, we sell the kids short when it comes to reading. They are interested, and they do want to spend time. Now it is up to us to help them find these books, to help build their confidence if they are reluctant, and to help provide the time for great reading to happen./uploads/2/3/8/5/23854712/americanization_webquest.docx