Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours." -John Locke
Children's understanding of what they are reading greatly increases when they are given the opportunity to discuss it with peers!
The students in my school are reading at all grade levels.
We supply them with the latest and greatest books to help them develop their own preferences and reading identity. Each child has their own unique needs in one or more reading area that is addressed every day. Unfortunately, not all of our children have the luxury of having libraries at home. We, as teachers, send our books home with the students put books in their hands at home and at school! Sometimes, these concepts are not reinforced at home because many of our parents are working multiple jobs to support their family. Our students are from families that cannot always spend the money on academic games or tools to help their kids. These children deserve engaging books in their classroom!
My Project
When we attend movies as adults, we tend to go with friends or loved ones. As we walk out of the theater, we begin to hear a buzz of "What's you think?" and "Wow! That was awesome!" Talking through the movie after we have seen it can help us understand parts we may not have noticed or develop deeper understandings of other parts.
The same is true for children! When we allow them to meet with "Book Clubs" or partners, the children become the role models and teachers in the classroom. From all areas of the room you can hear statements like, "What in the text makes you think that?" and "How has your thinking about that character changed as you read on?" Children learn to challenge each other, ask questions, and explain their thinking! Imagine the reading growth a child can make when they have all the materials they need!
I am teaching a new grade level this year and working on building my library up to be suitable for 4th graders!
I have already bought many books, but I am still sets for partnerships and book clubs to get these going! Please help us by providing us with tools to develop our reading skills!
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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 Mrs. Hamilton and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.