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Choosing Just Right Books

Choosing a book for independent reading is a challenge for many students. They struggle to find a book that they can read and also want to read. Classroom teachers go over this when they teach Reader’s Workshop and the Daily 5, but it is also something I teach in the library. I discuss this concept with all grades throughout the school year. However, at the beginning of second grade is when I introduce the concept of using the 5 Finger Rule and teach a more in-depth lesson about picking just right books. First I begin by having a discussion with students about what the phrase “just right” means. I provide examples like picking out new clothes to wear. You do not want to pick a pair of pants that are too small and tight. You also don’t want to choose a pair that is falling off and so long you

6 Tips for Teacher-Librarian Collaboration

Teacher-librarian collaboration can be difficult in the best of situations, but if you are on a fixed schedule this can be even more challenging. When I was working on my Master’s degree I took an entire class on collaboration one summer. When I went back to school I was so excited to implement what I learned. I scheduled a meeting with my principal to discuss strategies to increase collaboration with teachers. My principal’s solution? To make it mandatory that every teacher collaborated with me at least one time during the school year and to provide documentation to show what we did. Well, I’m sure you can imagine that went over like a lead balloon. One of the biggest issues was that I had no time to meet with teachers. Their planning time was during specials so it was hard to sit down and plan together. And I was not

Digital Rewards for the School Library

Classroom management can be quite an adventure for librarians and other “specials” teachers. We’ve all been there trying to keep things on track when we only see our students once a week for a brief session. Kids often see their specials time as a chance to chat with friends and take a break from the regular school grind. Plus, knowing they won’t get a grade for our activities can make them think they don’t need to put in the effort. With so much to cover in such a short time, it’s easy to miss some of the mischief. That’s why today, I’m excited to share a fantastic system that uses digital rewards to keep students motivated and focused on the task at hand! How Did the Digital Rewards System Get Its Start? Over the years, I’ve tried all sorts of systems to encourage positive behavior. I’ve done sticker charts,

Teaching Book Care Rules – Activities and Ideas

One of the most important lessons every year in the library is teaching book care rules. When I first started as a librarian I only taught kindergarten and first grade students about this. I assumed that all kids knew how to take care of their books, but I was sadly mistaken. Many of my students did not have books at home and rarely visited the library outside of school. So I quickly learned just how vital it was that I teach these skills to my students. My goal became to teach book care in a way that went beyond just repeating the rules over and over again like a broken record. Over time I came up with some different ideas and activities that work really well. Teaching Book Care Rules with Picture Books A Perfectly Messed-Up Story by Patrick McDonnel Little Louie is happy to be telling his story

10 Must-Read STEM Picture Books

STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math STEM is more than just the current education buzzword. STEM teaches our students critical skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. Being the school librarian, I love using STEM picture books to facilitate these skills in the library. A few of the benefits of a STEM curriculum include: Of course, one way that librarians can incorporate STEM into their lessons is through these picture books. At one time, it was difficult to find picture books about engineering or scientists that were not dull and lifeless. Now, there are more and more books being published that are engaging, interesting, and will hold your students’ interest. Below is a list of my top 10 STEM picture books that are a must-have for any library or classroom. 1. Charlotte the Scientist is Squished by Camille Andros Charlotte is a curious rabbit scientist. She

End of the Year Checklist for School Librarians

The end of the school year always seems to sneak up faster than expected, doesn’t it? One minute, you’re reading winter stories, the next, you’re hunting down missing books, pulling down bulletin boards, and prepping for summer maintenance. It can feel like there’s so much to do and never quite enough time or energy to get it all done. That’s exactly why having an end of the year checklist is essential. It keeps your mind clear and your tasks in order so you can finish strong and walk out the door knowing you’re set up for a smooth return in the fall. I created my editable checklist over the years and am now sharing it with you! End of the Year Checklist: Organize and Clean Your Library Space By the time May or June rolls around, your office, workroom, and even your storytime nook might look like a whirlwind

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Reading & Literacy

Choosing Just Right Books

6 Tips for Teacher-Librarian Collaboration

Digital Rewards for the School Library

Teaching Book Care Rules – Activities and Ideas

10 Must-Read STEM Picture Books

End of the Year Checklist for School Librarians

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