This happens to me. I'll be reading something (or I think I'm reading something), when suddenly I realize I have no idea what I've been reading. My mind was totally someplace else. It happens to kids, too... even young readers. And they need to be aware of it. They need to know WHY this happens to readers and then WHAT to do about it. This post doesn't have a chart about why readers get … [Read more...]
Open-Ended Flip Books
Flip books are popular. I've made flip books about activists, presidents, mothers, even groundhogs. (Speaking of which, I'm so ready for spring.) I've also seen flip books for specific book titles, but sometimes you need a template for a different book. And that's when it happened... an idea for blank flip books... templates I could use with any book... fiction or nonfiction... and open-ended so … [Read more...]
How to Use Wordless Picture Books
A book without words? It seems like an oxymoron, right? If there are no words on the pages, is it still a book? Can it be "read?" Will children be challenged to think deeply when they're only looking at pictures? Yes. Yes to everything. I think some teachers look past wordless books because, well, there are no words. They seem like books for little kids... for "kids who can't read yet." … [Read more...]
Having Fun with the Famous!
Before I even start, I have to explain the horrible desk arrangement in the background. Usually, the desks are grouped together in student teams of 4, but it's standardized testing time. You know the spiel. "The students have to be separated. Remove any visual aids. Yadda, yadda, yadda." Our counselor doesn't really say yadda... that's just what I hear. So the room is super boring and … [Read more...]
What Do You Do with an Idea?
I know it's Wednesday and I missed Book Talk Tuesday, but sometimes you just have to jump when the inspiration strikes. And I've been struck. I have a LOT of books. It's what I collect. See? And this isn't even the half of it. There are dozens tucked away in baskets, bins, and drawers. As a matter of fact, as I type this, I'm reminded of a civics project my daughter is doing in high … [Read more...]