My first graders need 5 copies each of 12 book titles from the "Henry and Mudge" series, for a total of 60 books to add to our classroom leveled library.
I have been teaching first grade for over 20 years. I teach in an urban community that is currently suffering from high unemployment. Our district has a growing number of families who are homeless. I have quite a range of abilities, and I am asking for books for our leveled library because all of these children are growing as readers and we need more books!
In my 34 years of teaching I have found that each class has a unique personality. This particular group of first graders loves to read! In a time when children may be uncertain about their home situation or ability to concentrate all day, classroom routines are so important. My students have a routine of choosing books at their levels regularly and also choosing a book at their level to bring home each evening. As wonderful as it is to see children grow as readers, I find it a challenge to continually provide the quality of literature they deserve. I would be so appreciative to offer my students the opportunity to get to know Henry and Mudge on a personal level as they enjoy each of the twelve titles! I believe Cynthia Rylant has captured the relationship of friendship in a way that is easy for first graders to comprehend. What a treat it will be to have twelve different stories about characters such as Henry and Mudge.
I have the enjoyable problem of trying to keep up with a group of children who enjoy every book they get their little hands on! Each day the children rotate through five literacy centers. One of the centers is "read to yourself" and another is "read to someone else". I truly believe I have found a method of teaching reading that allows first graders the best opportunity to become lifelong readers. I also realize it requires many, many books. I would appreciate your help in building my leveled library for this class and future classes as well. I am asking for five copies of each title because the children are in groups of five. During daily reading centers, children find it comforting (as well as exciting) to know that they can each read the same book if they so choose.
I chose "Henry and Mudge" books because, at guided reading level J, they are strong first grade or beginning second grade selections. I also chose "Henry and Mudge" books because they provide excellent opportunities for students to make connections to the characters in the books they read.
In this age of technology, I find it refreshing to see children delighted as they grow as readers. I feel almost obligated to do my best to provide quality literature for them to choose from each day. I found the "Henry and Mudge" series refreshing because the story lines are timeless and the reading level is such that it will benefit each of my students. The addition of these books will open our lessons to conversation about friends, pets, families, seasons, school, and so on. I am guessing it will lead to interest in other series as the year goes on. I truly appreciate this opportunity for my students to grow as readers and thank you so much for your consideration to help.
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 Mrs. Stacionis and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.