My students need 20 each of graphic novels Bone Vol.1: Out From Boneville, The Boxcar Children and The Watsons Go to Birmingham,to turn reluctant readers into lifetime readers. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" and "Bone" combine words and pictures and make reading fun! We can also use eight separate novels, including Walk Two Moons, Bud, Not Buddy and Shiloh.
My students come from largely poor, if not impoverished, families. School is a beacon of hope for them and for many, it's a safe place unlike many of the neighborhoods where they live. Most are being raised in dysfunctional homes. In addition to learning, I want my kids to realize success.
My classroom is diverse both in socioeconomic and ability levels, and many bring their baggage to school.
Students run the gamut with emotional issues, so we start each class with calming breathing activities accompanied by soothing music. It helps to start the day in the right frame of mind.
They are all so special to me because I know now is the time to get them in the right path, as most come from homes that are highly dysfunctional. Literally, I may be the sole person that asks how they are, and no matter what they throw at me, it doesn't stick (fortunately no one has thrown anything at me, but you get my drift!) I just model to them what behavior is acceptable and there's a lesson there for them to learn in addition to academics. It's a challenging, needy group, one that needs classroom resources that so far, are not available to them due to budget constraints.
My Project
My students need 20 each of graphic novels Bone Vol.1: Out From Boneville, The Boxcar Children and The Watsons Go to Birmingham, to turn reluctant readers into lifetime readers. Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Bone combine words and pictures and make reading fun! We can also use eight separate novels, including Walk Two Moons, Bud, Not Buddy and Shiloh. Kids love reading graphic novels, even my reluctant readers, because with the visuals and writing, they can comprehend what they read.
Studies show the dramatic effect these books have on improving reading comprehension. I can go back to my own childhood and what really got me hooked on reading were comic books, and graphic novels are the modern equivalent. I know the same will happen with my kids.
My project will help my kids, most of whom have not had success in reading before, to read a format that is made just for them, a combination of writing and visuals that make it easier for them to comprehend what they read.
All too often, I see kids older than my sixth-graders make a big mistake and get turned off from reading. This decision has a great impact on their lives. At this age, I can have a positive impact on students by getting them hooked on reading, giving hope for a better future.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. S. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.