As a teacher of 4th and 5th grade students with autism, it is often assumed that my students don't read or enjoy books. Of course, this is ridiculous! Although they may need more support to read or may not read in a "traditional" way, does not mean that they enjoy books any less than any other children. In fact, since I began using the Reader's Workshop Model (from Columbia Teachers College) in my classroom last year, my students are more empowered and excited than ever to read.
The Reader's Workshop Model recommends a daily read aloud and lesson focusing on one reading habit or strategy. It also recommends books that are appropriate for teaching many of these habits and strategies. Not only does this mean I don't have to waste instruction or planning time looking for an appropriate book, but the books I have used based on these recommendations are now some of my favorite children's books of all time. Unfortunately, our local public library puts a limit on the number of books a patron can put on hold. This means that while the Reader's Workshop model may recommend 10 different books for our October unit, I can only get my hands on a few of them (and can of course only keep them for a limited time).
I would love to fill out my classroom library with more of the books recommended by the Reader's Workshop. Some of the books I am requesting are ones my students already know and love (thanks to the library) and want to read again and again, and others are books I have heard wonderful things about.
Your help will ensure that my students have access to appropriate, high-quality children's books for our read alouds, lessons, and independent reading. Your help will make my job a little easier by reducing my frantic search for the right book a few days before I need to use it in class. There are many things I can think of that would benefit my students, but none more than books. Thank you.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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