I am a Title I Reading teacher. I provide intervention and prevention services for at-risk students, grades K-5, at a rural West Virginia school. We are located in a high poverty area with very little business support.
As a teacher, trying to "capture" student interest is the main obstacle I face. Today's students, even low-income ones, have plenty of technology: games, computers, Internet access, TVs, CDs, etc., but no books and no interest in books; even students who can read tell me they don't like (or hate) reading. The only time they read is when they are a "captive" class at school. Thanks to previous donors, I am building a library for these reluctant readers, trying to "capture" their interest when they have to read with me.
For these West Virginia students, I have selected books by West Virginia author Cynthia Rylant. These books are high interest: about Mr. Putter and his cat. Mr. Putter and his cat have lots of adventures together, and the funny situations appeal to kids. The older character of Mr. Putter allows me to teach history, changing technology, and figurative language. Since these characters are not on TV, the only way to find out about them is to read! And reading Cynthia's book "When I Was Young in the Mountains" will provide me with the opportunity to show my students how Cynthia came from a rural area with few resources (just like them), and how she went on to be successful.
By funding this project, you will help me as I attempt to "capture" student interest when I have them as a "captive" reading class. Thank you for considering this proposal.
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