Modeling the Love of Reading
Posted by Abbey on April 9, 2008 in Language Arts
There are many ways to share terrific books for children. Some schools have designated a time for D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read). Occasionally teachers share the joy of great literature through books on tape. Stopping the tape at appropriate times and checking for understanding is always the best practice when using this approach. Another idea is a field trip to the Library, where children can see people just reading. This can also provide children with a great reference for good models of reading for pleasure.
One of my favorites online resource provides a virtual experience where students can hear a professional voice tell a story and share their own passion for reading for pleasure. Go to
http://www.storylineonline.net/
This website features well known actors reading quality children’s books aloud. You can view streamed videos that fully capture illustrations, colors and text from each book. Even though their collection is picture books, there is potential for using many of these books to begin meaningful discussion for 5-6th graders and older. For example, one story I never tire of hearing is No Mirrors in My Nana’s House by Isaye M Barnwell. The theme of this story has a profound meaning for all ages. Imagine sharing this story online projected on a big screen as a conversation starter for your students on the topic of “stereotypes”. If any of you secondary try this idea , I would love to hear from you about the reactions from your students.