Dewey Decimal Rap

Students in grades 4 and 5 are learning about the Dewey Decimal system so they can find books in our library. Who says the Dewey Decimal system isn't fun? We watched this rap as an introduction to the Dewey Decimal concept. Watch video below:

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Online Coloring Book

The Grinch Online Coloring Book was a nice alternative to the traditional read-aloud/color a picture activity. It was an easy way to assess which first graders were already familiar with basic computer skills such as dragging and dropping, mouse clicking, and color filling. And the students really enjoyed working on the computer and decorating the Grinch in different ways.

December's most popular book

The book checked out most often this month was The World Almanac for Kids - 2007. We did an activity with the almanacs where students generated questions and answers to be used in a Jeopardy game. After that, students were asking to check out the almanacs. Since we were finished with the group lesson and I plan on ordering a new set for next year, I let the almanacs circulate. Interesting factoid that I learned from the almanac:  term for underwater hockey is Octopush.

Jackie's Gift

Jackie’s Gift by Sharon Robinson is a great nonfiction holiday read aloud about Jackie Robinson that includes both Hanukkah and Christmas themes. Listen to the NPR interview with Sharon Robinson, Jackie’s daughter, and Steve Satlow, the boy who lived next door. 

Storybird

We created Storybirds in Ms. Pacheco's class. Read one of our stories >>

What is this?

According to a recent survey of my friends, this structure in our Myron J. Francis library is a 70's style conversation pit. It does lend itself well to conversing with each other at eye level. I love the way it looks although sometimes it is not so good for little ones who are fidgety and like to roll/jump down the stairs during story time.