Lesson Plans Archives - Page 3 of 12 - Staying Cool in the Library

Teaching Summarizing and Paraphrasing

Summarizing and paraphrasing can be difficult skills for students to master. Often they do not understand the differences between the two and when to use them. In the library, I review these skills when I do any type of research project. Teaching a skill in context is always more effective than teaching it in isolation. The Difference Between Summarizing and Paraphrasing Summarizing is retelling the main idea in your own words. A summary should be short and to the point. Only the most important ideas should be included. Whereas paraphrasing is retelling the text in your own words. These two concepts are very similar which leads to the confusion many students have. How I Teach My Students About Summarizing and Paraphrasing This is why I created my Summarizing and Paraphrasing Activity Pack. This activity pack is designed to engage your students in meaningful practice in key reading skills with

Super Simple STEM Activities for the Library

STEM in the library…boy do I get a lot of requests for posts on this! I absolutely love incorporating STEM activities into the library as well as helping classroom teachers come up with fun STEM ideas. What does STEM stand for in case you don’t already know? STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Some may also refer to STEAM which adds in art as well. STEM education has become very popular in schools within the last few years. The reason that STEM education has become so popular is because it pushes students to go beyond the typical school subject curriculum and standards. STEM education helps teach students how to solve real-world problems and challenges that they could face in today’s world; Hence, preparing students to be successful in their careers. STEM education can start as young as preschool age! Students should always be exploring hands-on activities and

Teaching Genre in the Library

Who else loves to teach genre to your students? Teaching different types of genres opens the door to lifelong reading. It’s about helping our students pick up books that ignite curiosity. It also shows our students the worlds that exist beyond their own. Understanding genres also connects to writing, helping our students move past the traditional narrative and explore creative possibilities. What is a Genre? Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is a genre? A genre is a category that helps us group books (or any type of story) based on similar themes, settings, or styles. It guides them to books they’ll love based on what they’re in the mood for. Whether it’s a suspenseful mystery, an adventure, or a heartwarming tale of friendship, genres help us organize stories and make it easier for our students to explore new favorites. In the library, genres go beyond fiction. Nonfiction

8 Fiction and Nonfiction Picture Books for Teaching Cause and Effect

Are you constantly looking for different fiction and nonfiction books for teaching cause and effect to your elementary students? Teaching about story elements such as cause and effect, main idea, character traits, problem and solution and comparing/ contrasting are very important. I’ve compiled a list of 8 awesome fiction and nonfiction picture books for teaching cause and effect to make your life simpler. TEACHING CAUSE & EFFECT Teaching children about cause and effect develops critical thinking skills important for all ages of children — from the 3-year-old deciding not to run across the street to the 11-year-old deciding how to handle peer pressure. Picture books are an especially great way to teach about this concept because the illustrations support the meaning of the text and show cause and effect in action. Start with a picture walk to open a discussion around the key cause and effect moments. Reinforce to

5 Best Fiction and Nonfiction Book Pairings for Younger Students

Exploring the world of fiction and nonfiction through book pairings is truly a highlight when working with my students. It’s a strategy that can be used with any age to unravel the characteristics of each writing style. More than just an academic exercise, book pairings inspire students to dive into both realms of fiction and nonfiction. In the world of younger students, these pairings play a pivotal role in laying the foundation for their literary journey. Choosing shorter yet captivating books for grades K-2 ensures that there’s ample time for thorough exploration. The key is in the ensuing discussions where our students start to discern the differences between fiction and nonfiction. It’s a delightful process that fosters a love for reading and a keen awareness of the diverse literary landscapes that await exploration. Importance of Fiction and Nonfiction Book Pairings for Younger Students It’s safe to say for all

Poetry Unit Ideas for the Library

When you tell your students that you are going to write poetry, do you typically have a few that are excited, but the majority let out an audible sigh? Students often have the misconception that poetry is about following a lot of rules and using words that they don’t understand. They’re more open and excited when the focus shifts toward sharing their ideas and feelings with others in a creative format. Many students have a favorite type of poetry that they are drawn to. I have some different poetry unit ideas for elementary students to show you today. Digital Poetry Activities I especially like to use these Digital Poetry Activities this year because they are perfect to use for a poetry unit with students who are either learning virtually or in-person. This digital poetry unit will have your students writing and enjoying poetry in no time! In this unit,

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Teaching Summarizing and Paraphrasing

Super Simple STEM Activities for the Library

Teaching Genre in the Library

8 Fiction and Nonfiction Picture Books for Teaching Cause and Effect

5 Best Fiction and Nonfiction Book Pairings for Younger Students

Poetry Unit Ideas for the Library

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