We have several fantastic new online resources this year! Bookflix is a library of fiction video paired with nonfiction ebooks in a variety of thematic areas, most of which correspond closely to our PYP units of inquiry and/or the organizing themes. We also have Brain Pop for younger students in English AND Spanish -- be sure to take a look! Finally, for the older students, we have a number of new reference materials including a Dorling Kindersley library of reference books by subject and a new Universalis in French. Check with Sharon in the library for more information!
Flexible Checkout
This year all students in Grades 2 - 5 will have the opportunity to come to the library on a flexible basis for book checkout. For second graders, this will be in addition to their regularly scheduled library visit. We hope you will create ways to use this time to support your classroom reading initiatives and that you will encourage all of your students to take advantage of this opportunity. This year, I will be sending you reports on which students are lagging behind in book checkout so that we can work together to keep students reading and practicing their library skills. More information on that coming soon!
Language Book Talk Weeks
Language book talk weeks are back this year. This month look for a schedule of the French, Spanish, English and German book talk weeks ahead. In connection with the language book talks, take a look at the Audio Book Reviews link on the E-Bulletin Board. I am building this section to provide audio information about books in all languages and many of the books from the language book talks will be featured in the audio book reviews.
Book Clubs
Stephen Krashen says that free voluntary reading is a key factor to increased student achievement. Last year, we introduced Accelerated Reader to make reading more fun for the students. This year, I would like to offer several book clubs as a way to involve more students in reading activities. Students engage with books in different ways. Those with strong orientation to the written word and traditional testing will enjoy Accelerated Reader. Students with strong listening skills may like to try a new Listening Book Club which will explore audiobooks and podcasting. For students who enjoy more interpersonal activities, I would like to offer a traditional book club to meet and discuss books one afternoon a week in the library as well as online. What do you think -- would anyone like to help with one of these clubs?
