Reading always begins with a space that is inviting and comfortable. This space is not always available to students when they go home. Whether that space be an open area rug or a small nook in the corner of the classroom, it is my hope that all my students will discover a reading spot of their own.
My fourth grade students are learning about themselves as readers.
They generally come in as students going through the motions of reading and quickly discover that they have certain tastes. Developmentally, fourth graders are ready for books to open doors to their imagination. They get excited, share books with their friends, laugh while reading and take on other behaviors of a true reader. Unfortunately, many students do not have access to books at home and are not afforded the proper environment to engage in independent reading. I teach in a high-needs school and resources are limited.
My Project
The luxury of having a vibrant, colorful rug to brighten the classroom is one I have wanted for my students since I began teaching. However, a good quality rug is beyond my personal budget and beyond the budget of the school. In my classroom, the rug is where we will start and end our day with class morning meetings and enjoy a favorite read-aloud that bookends our day. The carpet is truly a focal point in the elementary classroom which can add life to the room.
Students often make use of the rug during independent times and even while working as pairs during math class. It is a space that gets constant daily use and students deserve to have a space that calls to them and that represents colors and patterns that they would pick out for themselves for their own rooms.
I am picturing my students laying on the rug as I read Neverending Story, their minds absorbed in the adventures of Atreyu and Bastian.
I see them with clipboards working side-by-side with a partner as they struggle through a math problem. I see them throwing a ball to a classmate while doing their favorite morning greeting. How a teacher's classroom looks is a direct reflection of what is important to that teacher. I hope this rug will help invoke a love of reading and a sense of community.
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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 Ms. Razvi and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
