tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37577513520604954682024-03-19T04:48:24.515-04:00My Shoestring LifeLife of a 5th Grade Teacher: Tying up lessons and life one day at time!Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.comBlogger293125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-30648597636343675372021-09-22T20:22:00.001-04:002021-09-22T20:22:07.695-04:00Student Created Reading TrackersReading logs get a bad rap. And they have a bad rap for a reason -- <b><i>the why. </i></b>The why behind tracking minutes, pages, and parent signatures is often accountability. <i>But are kids really buying in and actually doing the work?</i> I'd argue many kids are reading but the log isn't telling them much about their reading habits or their reading lives. They are simply "checking off " the boxes. And the others are just filling it out randomly or having a parent sign off. I'd given up logs quite a while a while ago but I still <strike>needed</strike> wanted something for kids to use to help them navigate and look closer at their reading lives. <div><br /></div><div>Last year, I had the idea for my students to create their own "reading trackers" to help them keep track of what matters to them -- genres, books, formats, etc. With everything happening last year, the trackers started off strong but weren't always kept up with. However, this year, I started with them again and they've already started evolving. Some students quickly realized that they needed to take their trackers digital so that they had easier access and the ability to create graphs in Google. Other students realized that tracking the number of books wasn't giving them enough or the information they wanted, so they began changing or editing their tracker's purpose. I've been blown away by the ownership and self-reflection. Students used their trackers to begin to set short term goals and monitor their own progress. I'm hoping the exciement continues as we work towards our first quarter goals in Reader's Workshop. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Here's a few of the amazing trackers kids created: </b></i></div><div>Just a note: These are all from our launch day so none of these are "finished."</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9HTkeeIzDgkbVQd7F-YkGB8hhKzKQpus-T9JfSED_5YIqd3Im_Kjow-g_moHmDhDivOJ0HVcrKU49dl5fJb-HHiMPGqXeDPXEWFp2_7YzsSc_55EDWsQOOeS_Z9AEHdvaXrk_PTfAEaA/s1056/Untitled+presentation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9HTkeeIzDgkbVQd7F-YkGB8hhKzKQpus-T9JfSED_5YIqd3Im_Kjow-g_moHmDhDivOJ0HVcrKU49dl5fJb-HHiMPGqXeDPXEWFp2_7YzsSc_55EDWsQOOeS_Z9AEHdvaXrk_PTfAEaA/w550-h425/Untitled+presentation.png" width="550" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKEOkrhiWXBLwu4t5U0VMqcIz_LlD8OUklb8QQLmfsLiE3lDsLs2fyWyNJmZD1mVQgmdUIYqR2G5B6HVeOR_V4vJH34ClnNLeDKYpcCDBZggaAAhrS5_QsArN4yq2AeWLe0_LPF5AaRYt/s1056/Untitled+presentation+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKEOkrhiWXBLwu4t5U0VMqcIz_LlD8OUklb8QQLmfsLiE3lDsLs2fyWyNJmZD1mVQgmdUIYqR2G5B6HVeOR_V4vJH34ClnNLeDKYpcCDBZggaAAhrS5_QsArN4yq2AeWLe0_LPF5AaRYt/w542-h418/Untitled+presentation+%25281%2529.png" width="542" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I'm excited to update this post as kids work on improving their trackers and continue to use them through the end of the quarter (or longer) as we continue to set goals and work on monitoring our progress. <div><br /></div><div><b><i>How to do you inspire students to track their reading?</i></b><br /><div><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" /></div><br /></div>Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-65567445195027443122019-05-19T16:45:00.001-04:002019-05-19T16:45:14.512-04:00Revamping Mock Newbery<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<b><i>Even the best laid plans can go awry.</i></b> </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
This year despite my best intentions we didn't have the Mock Book Club I was hoping for. We Skyped with zero authors. We barely met once a month. We never seemed to have copies of the novels checked in. <i>Why?</i> We had continuous scheduling conflicts along with a shortage of books. We had a never ending wait lists for many of our titles as many of my readers just didn't have the stamina at the start of the year to read some of our selections at a pace for sharing. We also had a lot of scheduling conflicts out of our control that didn't allow for our us to meet as a full book club. After debating how I could handle some of these problems, I looked to other successful book club models like Project Lit and to other teachers in my school. </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<b><i>We're going back to the basics. </i></b></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
My teaching partner and I agreed that for next year, we're going to focus on getting back to the "fun" of being in a book club. Even though we had so many great titles this past year, it was hard to find kids that had read the same books at the same time in order to talk about the books together. Therefore, for this upcoming year we are only selecting four required reads for Mock Newbery. <i>Can students read additional 2019 published texts? Of course!</i> But we felt we could get more copies and make better use of our time if we narrowed our selection to four choices. We also made sure that all of our book club choices have audiobooks available - giving all our readers the stamina to read through our list! We are going to continue to host our Mock meetings during the school day but this upcoming school year we are going to hold meetings during lunch. This will give us 40 minutes to eat and talk books without any schedule interruptions. This also allows us to bring in some treats for book clubbers as well as order pizza for one of last meetings of the year. We're hopeful this new time will give us some freedom as to what meetings look like without having to have our partners cover students not attending our book club. </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
We also hope to borrow from the Project Lit model next year for our meetings. Kicking off our meetings by playing a game/trivia, discussing that month's title and then planning for our next meeting. We would also love to be able to invite parents to our Mock Book Club too if they are reading along with their children. Our goal is to make this a commUNITY book club that extends beyond our school walls. I'll keep you posted as we try out this new endeavor. </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<b><i>So what books did we select?</i></b></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
As always we try and pick our books before summer. This way, we can order books over the summer as well as send home information right away with our Open House information. This lets kids and parents start reading (if they want) before school even starts! After lots of reading and narrowing, I think we've picked four stellar middle grade titles. </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiZWJzHtxO016jf14PG7fxCoc2KMAY6Uk5n57E250A3kfrNwTq-yFSiVva6JLhUKY3oVPTcsgru8XV_33WPCtEXzYNRtMA52h-zbd5oOO5zuzlHCIfp4uU0ZxFGhAERRMmyw12ZbimyVn/s1600/2020+Mock+Newbery+Letter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiZWJzHtxO016jf14PG7fxCoc2KMAY6Uk5n57E250A3kfrNwTq-yFSiVva6JLhUKY3oVPTcsgru8XV_33WPCtEXzYNRtMA52h-zbd5oOO5zuzlHCIfp4uU0ZxFGhAERRMmyw12ZbimyVn/s640/2020+Mock+Newbery+Letter.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
We have a school wide author visit with Jerry Craft in the works - so we're starting the year off with his graphic novel, <i>New Kid</i>. Our first in class read aloud is <i>Rules</i> by Cynthia Lord and we felt that <i>Song for a Whale </i>is a nice pairing as it also highlights the struggles of wanting to fit in and find your voice in middle school. <i>The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise</i> was one of my favorite books of the year so far - heartfelt, relevant and fresh this story takes readers on a cross country journey with Coyote and and her father Rodeo as they try and mend broken tires and hearts. Lastly, I'm eager to discuss tough topics like homelessness and abuse with our readers while taking them on a trip across the global with <i>The Bridge Hom</i>e.</div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<i><b>Are you thinking of trying Mock Newbery for the first time?</b></i> </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
Check out my past posts. It's an incredible reading experience to share with your students! </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<b><i>Hosting again this year?</i></b> </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
What titles on your list? What 2020 books are you must looking forward to read? </div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":8,"w":653,"h":18,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":142}">
<br /></div>
<div bis_size="{"x":16,"y":26,"w":653,"h":107,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":160}">
<img bis_size="{"x":16,"y":26,"w":364,"h":107,"abs_x":75,"abs_y":160}" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" /></div>
Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com99tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-41638526158372001512018-08-06T09:33:00.002-04:002018-08-06T09:33:36.144-04:00Mock Newbery 2019This year I was able to collaborate with three other amazing teachers in my building to come up with our Mock Newbery List for 2019. I'm currently working my way through the list and definitely have several favorites and a few books I can't wait to get my hands on... I'm always surprised by the winner and hopeful we've done a good job of choosing at least one book that will have a shiny sticker com 2019. However, there are so many wonderful contenders out there this year that its going to be an incredibly tough field!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4hZRTUapRZThFZ6hHaSR1LWn0JqsGWGQeBEu1fnllmdKSYWCQzgVCJZbtRpYbyL_iOq2sKhQN3pbIJnTKjBvoN8hyphenhyphenk4_9Dj8XRjOuoBcHeDE_Gy-tiPqGlpp3__-UIN70aMpEsFP7I-p/s1600/2019+Mock+Newbery+Letter+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4hZRTUapRZThFZ6hHaSR1LWn0JqsGWGQeBEu1fnllmdKSYWCQzgVCJZbtRpYbyL_iOq2sKhQN3pbIJnTKjBvoN8hyphenhyphenk4_9Dj8XRjOuoBcHeDE_Gy-tiPqGlpp3__-UIN70aMpEsFP7I-p/s640/2019+Mock+Newbery+Letter+%25282%2529.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com128tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-20979160159497346292018-06-12T06:30:00.000-04:002018-07-23T12:27:14.042-04:00#Classroombookaday Part I: Back to SchoolSchool is out for summer, yet I can't stop thinking about the wonderful year I've had with my fifth graders. We've done so much reading, thinking, and growing. I know they are ready to change the world! As, I've wrapped up the year, I've had several inquiries (mostly via Instagram) about my #Classroombookaday. You can get tons of ideas on how to get started from <a href="http://www.classroombookaday.com/" target="_blank">Classroombookaday.com </a> Jillian Heise has lots of tips for getting started and she also shares how she came up with the idea for #Classroombookaday. Plus, you can always check out the hashtag on Twitter or Instagram, too.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3757751352060495468" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oczK5I2TKIy_LRAQO3Zt4UOnrgpc0T9CXtEha11Aw5CqcLDH-Zvbn8mJCCy30wGsA7cn9kfg6iPBH7CR3UOUQhO6se6d7L8Awktn9QdZVaPsVI5waeeQQ02Lvoe0JMbI78NTL1R1drbY/s1600/ClassroomBookadayPart1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oczK5I2TKIy_LRAQO3Zt4UOnrgpc0T9CXtEha11Aw5CqcLDH-Zvbn8mJCCy30wGsA7cn9kfg6iPBH7CR3UOUQhO6se6d7L8Awktn9QdZVaPsVI5waeeQQ02Lvoe0JMbI78NTL1R1drbY/s640/ClassroomBookadayPart1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2>
#Classroombookaday Basics</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Let's start with the basics. I chose to do #classroombookaday to start the day off with reading together and sharing in the love of reading. <b style="font-style: italic;">Who doesn't love picture books? </b>I made it clear to my students that there were no lessons, activities, and especially no worksheets attached to these stories. We were reading to read, think and enjoy. After each story, time permitting, we'd turn and talk and then share our thoughts. My three guiding questions were: <i>What did you notice? What did you like or dislike? What can you learn? </i><br />
<br />
After the first two weeks of school and lots of modeling, I opened a Sign Up Genius so that kids could share two days a week. It was a HUGE hit and they loved reading to their classmates. This was optional and if no one signed up, I chose a book to read that day.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h2>
Back to School Books</h2>
The question, I most often get asked is... <i>Where is your book list? What books did you use?</i> So, I thought I'd create a four part blog series on some of my favorite books from the year. I may also make a Google Doc or Sheet with all my titles as well. But please note, out of our four reading days, two days a week I had students sharing titles. So, there were some instances where there were books I just didn't get to share because kids had signed up and had some of their favorites in mind. We also didn't always post our books we used as mentor texts in class -- so our board only accounts for the #bookaday reading we did Monday - Thursday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcOeNjbQUFsK3ix11fUA_Q9a8VEWJ0ukXbPfUs-phNIJ1IzckQ1VQgQK8LLM_MubH0DIUmvkTjwHGN02AZrG-2RvPsfa7uojozc87GVixfpnUJzjXRIAupNJQ7v2KesHbMAQalcReZeKv/s1600/IMG_6310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcOeNjbQUFsK3ix11fUA_Q9a8VEWJ0ukXbPfUs-phNIJ1IzckQ1VQgQK8LLM_MubH0DIUmvkTjwHGN02AZrG-2RvPsfa7uojozc87GVixfpnUJzjXRIAupNJQ7v2KesHbMAQalcReZeKv/s640/IMG_6310.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Here are ten of my favorite "Back to School" books that I used at the beginning of the year. These books helped me build a rapport with my students and get them excited about #Classroombookaday</b>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="640" src="https://images.macmillan.com/folio-assets/macmillan_us_frontbookcovers_1000H/9781596439641.jpg" width="518" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>School's First Day of School</u> by Adam Rex</b></span></h3>
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the perfect first day read aloud. Told from the School's perspective, it addresses how even the school is nervous about his first day and all the kids coming to meet him. The janitor helps get school ready and eventually school starts to enjoy his first day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for only one you book cover" height="552" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A1%2BC%2B9CMFDL.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Only One You</u> by Linda Kraz</b></span></h3>
</div>
Our principal read this book to our students on the first week of school. Students then created some unique rocks that we displayed around the school. The story celebrates being unique and embracing your differences.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for Wild About Us Book Cover" height="633" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61-iI9m4NEL.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Wild About Us</u> by Linda Kraz</b></span></h3>
</div>
This book is a fun book featuring animals that are embracing their own unique traits and characteristics. The book features zany illustrations and even a few animal butts -- what's not to love?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for My Teacher is a Monster" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51kcqNwJcTL._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="496" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>My Teacher is a Monster</u> by Peter Brown</b></span></h3>
</div>
Quite possibly one of my favorite back to school reads. My students always love Peter Brown. From his amazing illustrations to witty stories, you really can't go wrong with a Peter Brown book. This book follows a student as he "perceives" his teacher. She gradually becomes less "monstrous" as he sees her outside of school and realizes that she might not be so bad after all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for Where Oliver Fits book cover" src="http://100scopenotes.com/files/2017/07/9781101919071_22a3f-425x550.jpg" height="640" width="494" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Where Oliver Fits</u> by Cale Atkinson</b></span></h3>
</div>
Cale's books just bring a smile to my face. <u>Where Oliver Fits</u> is the perfect story to talk about finding your place and where you fit in. Oliver tries to force himself into many different groups and even changes himself to fit in. However, this doesn't make Oliver very happy. Will Oliver ever find some pieces like him?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for Surfs Up book cover" src="http://d28hgpri8am2if.cloudfront.net/book_images/onix/cvr9780735842205/surfs-up-9780735842205_hr.jpg" height="494" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Surf's Up</u> by Kwame Alexander</b></span></h3>
</div>
Kwame Alexander brings to light a book about getting lost in a book. Told by two different frogs, this book highlights the power of story. Plus, it uses the words BRO and DUDE A LOT! This book is great for audience participation. There is also a great song that Kwame and Randy wrote a song titled "Surfs Up" to accompany the book! Check it out on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGkSqeEhq-M" target="_blank">YouTube</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for the bad seed book" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51peT7jEFzL._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="524" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>The Bad Seed</u> by Jory John</b></span></h3>
</div>
This book lets kids know that not everyone is perfect or even all that nice. But it's never too late to change yourself and allow yourself a fresh start. The bad seed tries to become a better seed -- does he still slip up? <i>Of course</i>, but he's trying to be better!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for sam and dave dig a hole" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/512ZmgZsb5L._SX370_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="476" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Sam and Dave Dig a Hole</u> by Mac Barnett</b></span></h3>
</div>
Quite possibly my favorite read aloud of the year! This book is great for talking about grit, determination and growth mindset. It's also a fantastic book that keeps kids on their toes! The audible groans and gasps as Sam and Dave endless look for something spectacular always make my teacher heart pitter-patter.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="31625795" height="640" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1474598253l/31625795.jpg" width="550" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Jabari Jumps</u> by Gaia Cornwall</b></span></h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Perfect for end of summer, <i>Jabari Jumps</i> deals with conquering our fears and learning to take risks. With the help of friends and family, it's easy to take a dive into something new! Plus, you may discover something new to love and enjoy!<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<img alt="Image result for Thunder Boy Junior" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71A4TKZOynL.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Thunder Boy Jr.</u> by Sherman Alexie</b></span></h3>
</div>
My last favorite back to school read was <i>Thunder Boy, Jr.</i> because it touches on identity and what our names mean to us. Teaching at a diverse school makes names even more important to me. I should know them and know how to pronounce them correctly. We talk about the value of names and often students share what their names means or why their parents choose their names. It's amazing what you can learn from students just from talking about their names! This year, I also plan to use <i>Alma & How She Got her Name</i> the following day. I also always share how I was named after my mother's favorite song from the 1980's and there may or not be some rocking out to Barry Manilow.<br />
<br />
<i>** I'm linking in an important blog post from <a href="https://www.pragmaticmom.com/2018/07/sexual-misconduct-in-childrens-book-publishing-metoo-timesup/" target="_blank">The Pragmatic Mom</a> about the #MeToo movement and #Kidlit. Please read this article as you consider books to share with your students. I will probably not be sharing Thunder Boy Jr. whole class this year in support of the brave women coming forward. I will be reading Alma & How She Got her Name instead. Be informed and aware as you prepare for classroom read alouds.</i><br />
<br />
<b>What are some of your favorite back to school read alouds? </b><br />
<b><i>Share your favorites below! </i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" /></a><br />
<br />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-60225642202702633392018-01-08T10:24:00.001-05:002018-01-08T10:29:54.173-05:00Choice in Nonfiction WritingThis year, my teaching partner and I decided that we were going to allow more freedom during our Writing Workshop Nonfiction Unit. We've always allowed freedom in choice (of topic) but we've always chosen the format, usually feature articles but last year we tried out infographics. But this year - we wanted students to write a nonfiction piece where the format and topic were completely the student's decision. As we head towards personalization - we wanted students to have voice, choice and ownership in their writing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfIonohmcuHg7AokWEHAV16FC-5jY4nUFmRSSOVKZEm5hsADv_JiUbY8a06_o_wLM0rWh_DtNjIYCxqqU-9kRhpwMXchTVNspidfp6PRZCJzul-qkdlZ-lRxWcX2UubQA-NlyZVMg0rHx/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfIonohmcuHg7AokWEHAV16FC-5jY4nUFmRSSOVKZEm5hsADv_JiUbY8a06_o_wLM0rWh_DtNjIYCxqqU-9kRhpwMXchTVNspidfp6PRZCJzul-qkdlZ-lRxWcX2UubQA-NlyZVMg0rHx/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
To do this, we did have to work with our students to set up some parameters. During Readers Workshop, students had to be reading a nonfiction book. This could be on any topic and in any format (chapter book, picture book, graphic novel) but should be a book that could give them background information or ideas for writing. This seemed to greatly help connect reading and writing and allowed students to get a jump start on research. Knowing the end, also helped our kids get ready for writing.<br />
<br />
Before completely, jumping into drafting their writing pieces, we had students choose their format. During our Readers Workshop, we had read narratives, feature articles and infographics as a class. We also talked about how form can help us understand more complex texts. Therefore, students were familiar with the various formats and the ways they could be used. Before they started writing, however, we wanted them to take a few notes on what was important about the writing style and craft they were hoping to create.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PF8HlT36pXnKOnCWGn9GjJ_9QogFruN1mrcIOz6spjo/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqUNbDlZVMQK9dPMTtVhjOQIF6c1COHl9R4Ba_9aj9GEKqGB_CX8WAmBKFEIIUlzBdURB8tgBeHiVEoteN58dug4jRKhdbrq05y4FAdPATSdq404DCo-fFpMe6ec0wD6ece4v6MkZvxsz/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Click the graphic to be taken to a Google Doc <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PF8HlT36pXnKOnCWGn9GjJ_9QogFruN1mrcIOz6spjo/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">link</a> to note sheet.</b></i></div>
<br />
I had three <b><a href="https://www.target.com/p/utility-storage-tubs-and-totes-plastic-1pc-nbspblack-nbsp-room-essentials-153/-/A-52207120#lnk=sametab" target="_blank">Target plastic bins</a> </b><i><b>filled</b></i> with mentor texts for students. One crate was filled with <a href="https://wehavekids.com/education/Best-Narrative-Nonfiction-Books-for-Kids" target="_blank"><b>narrative nonfiction titles</b></a>, one with <b><a href="https://www.kidsdiscover.com/infographics/" target="_blank">infographic examples</a></b>, and one with magazines so students could reference feature articles. {<i>Click links above for the best book bins for collections, narrative titles I had available and infographics I printed off in color and linked for students.}</i><br />
<br />
Students were tasked to read 3-4 mentor texts and make observations. <i>What were the authors doing in each text? What text features and structures were being used? How are these pieces set up on the page? </i>Notes could be recorded on a simple note sheet we glued in our notebooks.<br />
<br />
The following day, we started making our plans using our observations from the previous day. This also helped guide our further research. Plans ranged from extremely detailed to a simple sketch of the layout. All students, were able to create an image that related back to their noticings from the day before -- thus giving them a plan for writing. Then, they were able to spend the next several days researching and drafting parts of their nonfiction pieces.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF9-jXDYgEXdsCnNRkRVhmpFxqGljEMWLi52JLvex3RPaFJcx828ZgOzj6tqTwwjzgo4FGyDjlA5G_TiEF4BXJD4zsdzhkhQmBupPKRsj4oRHQQcvw3cawrT4AelGYeG-GfUycj10Rm6G/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF9-jXDYgEXdsCnNRkRVhmpFxqGljEMWLi52JLvex3RPaFJcx828ZgOzj6tqTwwjzgo4FGyDjlA5G_TiEF4BXJD4zsdzhkhQmBupPKRsj4oRHQQcvw3cawrT4AelGYeG-GfUycj10Rm6G/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The end result was incredibly impressive. Blown away, amazing. I read pieces that were informed, researched and most of all looked like <b>REAL</b> writing. Topics were diverse from defenses of a hedgehog to the assassination of JFK. I was also amazed at the risk students took, especially those choosing to write narrative nonfiction over an infographic or feature article. <i>It's amazing how one little change can lead to so many great writing pieces. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQw7FDFOWo7bZRJQuh2gYlVgvuzBNTodd3IDvp0WivhQsKWhJiaWtPHXjDg-FF_5RX6zljsPmDhJJHw2J15Ul4_g3SPs_uyaffHwSu5U-gNz91pogRo-JjQC-MTuf3gkS-A8mCGFVS2-G/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQw7FDFOWo7bZRJQuh2gYlVgvuzBNTodd3IDvp0WivhQsKWhJiaWtPHXjDg-FF_5RX6zljsPmDhJJHw2J15Ul4_g3SPs_uyaffHwSu5U-gNz91pogRo-JjQC-MTuf3gkS-A8mCGFVS2-G/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-jS7hmia_regPtzVK0IqcJkhN-67EFqUGg9xgZ0uhz7o5e9pGg55Ry4tDXfahOjcOha9NZFyhlLEy71zdtO2K0vQ914CT7dtvS6hw_9emolGo7qyKY3hjRrEvOOTk5TfLpbdND0XldNU/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-jS7hmia_regPtzVK0IqcJkhN-67EFqUGg9xgZ0uhz7o5e9pGg55Ry4tDXfahOjcOha9NZFyhlLEy71zdtO2K0vQ914CT7dtvS6hw_9emolGo7qyKY3hjRrEvOOTk5TfLpbdND0XldNU/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYM_5EtLUkTW9-d4DJnp8Avrs6QZPnSQDi4zFtSv5IakIIJ5aP-cQWYWBklKAcDO1zH8MqA9dkKU3RAUQ4_JrN5sernETQtjkhttrMp81tyNBkMlMng1gHl089NpxpYIau2lGl2VrcNVmS/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYM_5EtLUkTW9-d4DJnp8Avrs6QZPnSQDi4zFtSv5IakIIJ5aP-cQWYWBklKAcDO1zH8MqA9dkKU3RAUQ4_JrN5sernETQtjkhttrMp81tyNBkMlMng1gHl089NpxpYIau2lGl2VrcNVmS/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Nu0JKcaIkg0Gy8tPQVqxBcgzx-wljqnDO3dEy3Bl-KfJYmRX3y2CtDD36WPxkJu2ROIqiXTWLh7YVLwylaCbgjyTddRkXUpE89R0AO7-mOdsoUoOtNozfGAgGXEIMd2-Jp3DNQjh4hgt/s1600/Slide7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Nu0JKcaIkg0Gy8tPQVqxBcgzx-wljqnDO3dEy3Bl-KfJYmRX3y2CtDD36WPxkJu2ROIqiXTWLh7YVLwylaCbgjyTddRkXUpE89R0AO7-mOdsoUoOtNozfGAgGXEIMd2-Jp3DNQjh4hgt/s640/Slide7.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>How do you give your students voice and choice in writing?</i></b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com59tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-61278807935081510662017-12-30T15:50:00.001-05:002017-12-30T15:54:49.707-05:00A Year in Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This year, I've read a lot of <i>really</i> great books. I've read books ranging from YA to picture books. My favorite books are still middle grade fiction but I've enjoyed dabbling in nonfiction picture and reading more picture books this year (thanks to #classroombookaday) then ever before. I've also enjoyed my fair share of audiobooks, <u>Patina</u> by Jason Reynolds was a particular favorite audiobook of the year. My goal this year was to read 100 total books, although I experienced a few slumps this year I'm on pace to finish out the year at around 120 books.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRdhhVIvU3S9bGCFQNnl1ddlim2OsbkJSA_yArmjwwiOeKuDBpiiqWV0T5dJ4PaJ2pXp8iT6T1UV8LGlm4pX6GVT9Bszj7q2HeGDY3-4r0Waqbx_IWZjEeiiXazDUOyASPtrSFgs4T3N92/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRdhhVIvU3S9bGCFQNnl1ddlim2OsbkJSA_yArmjwwiOeKuDBpiiqWV0T5dJ4PaJ2pXp8iT6T1UV8LGlm4pX6GVT9Bszj7q2HeGDY3-4r0Waqbx_IWZjEeiiXazDUOyASPtrSFgs4T3N92/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I've tried to pick my favorite books of 2017, although I feel like I'm forgetting a few great titles. Each of these stories are filled with characters and themes that I will bring with me into 2018 and beyond. Such a great year in #KidLit. This year's <b><a href="http://www.myshoestringlife.com/search/label/Mock%20Newbery" target="_blank">Mock Newbery</a> </b>Book Club and<b> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ClassroomBookaDay&src=tyah" target="_blank">#Classroombookaday</a></b> have proven that investing in books and reading, is the best investment any teacher can make. Can't wait to see what the awards season has in store -- but all these books are winners in my classroom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1q4uG4PRScID1fAHROQdQg2WIh9KAl6xW6KMN6GcHJv05MB6hF-lnSN2w1xPWSXLQrfMQbCdfLdwStDovZzV2RnSXFBMPFblRsiwtTzMzslqA0VEXj8C-1vacWOM7thjAr2RylekVDH3/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1q4uG4PRScID1fAHROQdQg2WIh9KAl6xW6KMN6GcHJv05MB6hF-lnSN2w1xPWSXLQrfMQbCdfLdwStDovZzV2RnSXFBMPFblRsiwtTzMzslqA0VEXj8C-1vacWOM7thjAr2RylekVDH3/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza1zIURtM4PUzBjGuj0Pl7H0P2v4d0LsRqu-RyYKNufCBCG4tCQUCzz_Z48iOu_ifK9oDaeLZz8ykAXfHZeUfW9hLBQOkXKzIclMVFfHbE70fjjZBhtjGdmlfrAkSawpIBZEa50vEz_6d/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza1zIURtM4PUzBjGuj0Pl7H0P2v4d0LsRqu-RyYKNufCBCG4tCQUCzz_Z48iOu_ifK9oDaeLZz8ykAXfHZeUfW9hLBQOkXKzIclMVFfHbE70fjjZBhtjGdmlfrAkSawpIBZEa50vEz_6d/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RIessC-g8C8PAgdA4DNFCRQn8ArEX782Cc5JQOI2JtLDhoflAoB9WZaQBuR4MqQhIXuWk4KZt34AboL9pSbmSpJo3JvANhmX1nFhFeTFXsIvnQ4FO5915QcLWtiLxaZEL3Nqh-Vxh_MJ/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RIessC-g8C8PAgdA4DNFCRQn8ArEX782Cc5JQOI2JtLDhoflAoB9WZaQBuR4MqQhIXuWk4KZt34AboL9pSbmSpJo3JvANhmX1nFhFeTFXsIvnQ4FO5915QcLWtiLxaZEL3Nqh-Vxh_MJ/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t3cBl-blT3XqzY3r1kl8wrSH-mzTBD92XSpWFZcfdYmBsNvIEW2d7A_MGTzvt-oTHnKP0OjwQp0FdLvEDcwYTxtA3rgCIdT9XNGpNTq303g0os66KJ5T6O9eIfzvpd9Ye2sEShU6O9p6/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t3cBl-blT3XqzY3r1kl8wrSH-mzTBD92XSpWFZcfdYmBsNvIEW2d7A_MGTzvt-oTHnKP0OjwQp0FdLvEDcwYTxtA3rgCIdT9XNGpNTq303g0os66KJ5T6O9eIfzvpd9Ye2sEShU6O9p6/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZxLOVm6nWxjffLLmskUfI0bl8PwojPtKym2uNtRlpSjPzzF5LU5cLibD0PxfOMDn08Wkxaf8StB49Vhyphenhyphen1UHiXSS9NwDet8-eoQXk4wCmO2P0gAIl4g4pDxN3fpGkCyP7G1K4UK6rpabE/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZxLOVm6nWxjffLLmskUfI0bl8PwojPtKym2uNtRlpSjPzzF5LU5cLibD0PxfOMDn08Wkxaf8StB49Vhyphenhyphen1UHiXSS9NwDet8-eoQXk4wCmO2P0gAIl4g4pDxN3fpGkCyP7G1K4UK6rpabE/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu48Q28A4s-h4-WX8hTlnwtK65e9hGZh0zfNGL9cgvaYuTFzHU0woCw740lSxK_-f-oDU1q4_KMjdXn34urkAaJzsw1HE3QRaH2T3syklVsb2hME7diGLoda3uoDsRROJdqhX-gXR8dbAr/s1600/Slide7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu48Q28A4s-h4-WX8hTlnwtK65e9hGZh0zfNGL9cgvaYuTFzHU0woCw740lSxK_-f-oDU1q4_KMjdXn34urkAaJzsw1HE3QRaH2T3syklVsb2hME7diGLoda3uoDsRROJdqhX-gXR8dbAr/s640/Slide7.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b><i>What have been your favorite reads of 2017? </i></b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-82695150225808588342017-11-12T06:00:00.000-05:002017-11-12T06:00:23.738-05:00Let's Get Cookin'Each year brings different readers into my classroom. This year my students are into practical nonfiction - they want to make, take, and do. They want to learn how to code and beat various tasks on Mine Craft. They are also loving DIY and crafting books -- <i>especially</i> cookbooks. I have several students that just can't get enough cookbooks. Several students have even created food or recipe related blogs on Kid Blog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0PtBwUhrGpZTIA5RvQgdwBTYNBa6L_z8luNQ7vAGljOB1X82a2O18O4oQcmWL2L91BP0ghyphenhyphen1t_jZXYNzGu61uILJAS6hkSrCNBhPcpAPsa7r1v7rXxP4Rx1rERXz9vmiQWvujIJx7Y4f/s1600/Cookbook+Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0PtBwUhrGpZTIA5RvQgdwBTYNBa6L_z8luNQ7vAGljOB1X82a2O18O4oQcmWL2L91BP0ghyphenhyphen1t_jZXYNzGu61uILJAS6hkSrCNBhPcpAPsa7r1v7rXxP4Rx1rERXz9vmiQWvujIJx7Y4f/s640/Cookbook+Button.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Before, jumping down the book buying rabbit hole, I gave my students a short Google Form asking what they thought my library needed. Students had the option to respond by author, genre, or title. And they could make as many suggestions as they wanted. I told them I may not be able to buy all their suggestions but would find ways to make sure our classroom library was meeting our needs. After the survey, I noticed that many students were requesting cookbooks. <i>I didn't have single cookbook in my classroom library</i> and to make matters worse, the school library's cookbooks looked dated and a pretty "elementary" for some of my savvy young chefs. So, I set out to find a few great cookbooks for upper elementary readers!<br />
<br />
After shopping around and asking for suggestions on social media, I found several great looking cookbooks. Many "felt" like cookbooks and had excellent photographs of foods and steps. The Kid Chef cookbooks also have sidebars with common pit-falls and solutions. Lots of great culinary vocabulary and techniques are covered each of these books as well.<br />
<br />
<b>Be Budget Wise: </b>Many of these books are available on Amazon as well as cheaper online solutions like Thriftbooks and Book Outlet. Shop around as the price of a good cookbook (even for kids) can be pricey!<br />
<br />
<i><b>Here are a few of my students' favorites: </b></i><br />
<i>Clicking each image will take you to the Amazon page for each book. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kid-Chef-Bakes-Cookbook-Aspiring/dp/1623159423/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510440272&sr=8-1&keywords=Kid+Chef+Bakes" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="320" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTR6FhXqwVw8kvZO2hSF_MC4RQdhkOHbgDwmJzlnfimO0LFcx_sdpPLd0s0LF3e69iTeCH2UovV8zYUZM-x6agREU49HJyLV08VlB-G-aJnwBP0B7r7A9v-Gmdiou9H7FlaEIE4qruKA6/s640/Kid+Chef+Bakes.jpg" width="517" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kid-Chef-Cookbook-Healthy-Culinary/dp/1943451206" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="482" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9V1S3OwNcBbhZDgKYzgywpvTP6J99Z0LgEPvRDljwRElnuUkd7XhKSqkzg3_AiGXaZRpPpPZKZ1etY41ST1aB3kIG1LEF5wFbNFq9SO4y0OzmSJR2tHL0FH_CQjAuvT6yWMyVCw17B0rT/s640/Kid+Chef.jpg" width="518" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cookbook-Kids-Williams-Sonoma-Great-Recipes/dp/1616280182/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=W462K61WPGETFEG9Q3D2" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="529" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXtghPVPcjgFGOttA_SbKE7AaR7d9_k3RHCXp7EzOa2ruFM_VNoKdXQtfh8Ogxbr8qmY0OTMADusdNBOC_No7aOy0H9NukXxiZUE64bM7WxXFH-uhmc-Q1dXfFE2NFTA9Izp0cSxmN15l/s640/Young+Chef.jpg" width="568" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/MasterChef-Junior-Cookbook-Essential-Techniques/dp/0451499123/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1510440311&sr=8-6&keywords=MasterChef+Junior" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws5Wtsf6a7BQuGMkkPPrkwS325J240Z4D3GSp8BJpspdIjoqfIgqBDWwkvOBdyCe-jlubFH5xy9icFsYInvJatvU_V5ysCmHqouI1SWoV1SvqLaiu6RbQi6RzzXU-5ri8BhEEAEzmzelb/s640/Masterchef+Junior.jpg" width="516" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cookbook-Kids-Williams-Sonoma-Great-Recipes/dp/1616280182/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=W462K61WPGETFEG9Q3D2" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="519" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7spL20BtvfGm8e7R5u2lfc0sjZIc8sOC5F_FHRvIM_rmKrKrL7GH1zZLPodH8f6bUpB64e7wx02NRKh1zuK7BnfdgkuiVLJmX841NJRFSz0nkT9VmDahcrsJsBHbSCAJOZOL4VKHBGQQ/s640/Cookbook+for+Kids.jpg" width="558" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>How you do build your library cater to your students' needs?</i></b><br />
<b><i>What cooking essentials am I still missing in our classroom?</i></b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com69tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-53037910283562548162017-10-30T05:30:00.000-04:002017-10-30T05:30:05.618-04:00#IMWAYR OctoberI haven't posted a <b><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IMWAYR?src=hash" target="_blank">#IMWAYR</a></b> in quite a while, so now is as good as time as any to get caught up with some of my October reads! Back to school this year has been insanely busy as I get to know my new readers, learn and teach the new Units of Study and implement #classroombookaday. I may not have been reading quite as much as "usual" but I feel like I'm finally starting to feel on top of things that are happening in the classroom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAMBNX0nRWqEoBah3PRMrap1OpQSVtqHj_jIddmk_8S914v_oNarT17ua9nXKtDekOBJJrJ2NHD_zKhxfeVNu-c5WG_afNmjK7ycIfKRL4kck3n2-L-BouO-pgxFqpf4T97eyRveP1duj/s1600/IMWAYR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAMBNX0nRWqEoBah3PRMrap1OpQSVtqHj_jIddmk_8S914v_oNarT17ua9nXKtDekOBJJrJ2NHD_zKhxfeVNu-c5WG_afNmjK7ycIfKRL4kck3n2-L-BouO-pgxFqpf4T97eyRveP1duj/s640/IMWAYR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><i>So, here's what my reading life has looked liked recently...</i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERf8VXFK2CZtZpJoIa6C2hRFSB3CjFKIIXgDLshNlw46WwDyznlHVvMjLmBwiiB2PZCje4TNSRYGFiMLIJD9TvHaC24w6hEjGcm_eFCEHEgBLqAaWpiq2Nyf5Jt7cwfF1iYZobj57Ec91/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERf8VXFK2CZtZpJoIa6C2hRFSB3CjFKIIXgDLshNlw46WwDyznlHVvMjLmBwiiB2PZCje4TNSRYGFiMLIJD9TvHaC24w6hEjGcm_eFCEHEgBLqAaWpiq2Nyf5Jt7cwfF1iYZobj57Ec91/s400/Slide1.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TVDy9IB1-Py6lGKAePzHRbUMsSkdFmpf-7PstkEK7_P-0HswhUd9gAzkvCWP_ktYLqHJ-t7D6aciLuzL5lzggTbXli4Dsa4K7tboBBilyUo8J0nhVCLLlp-8dqkZm9mVYZjm7rii1Keo/s1600/Bruces+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="499" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TVDy9IB1-Py6lGKAePzHRbUMsSkdFmpf-7PstkEK7_P-0HswhUd9gAzkvCWP_ktYLqHJ-t7D6aciLuzL5lzggTbXli4Dsa4K7tboBBilyUo8J0nhVCLLlp-8dqkZm9mVYZjm7rii1Keo/s640/Bruces+Cover.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I purchased Ryan T. Higgins' latest gem as birthday present to myself and I'm so glad I did! It may be my favorite of the Bruce series so far. Bruce, the mice, and the goslings are all back and looking for a new home! The end papers and "undies" of this book are my favorite of 2017! We also read all the Bruce books for #classroombookaday and the students were not disappointed either. I highly recommend this book as a read aloud for any classroom.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWgDxuDfaeaqP7K3yl-aL1nsNMfl6MbGKXrv61QtT_x6Vc2LrFByIlh1aXroJt2mhAKabpAl8NJ5fwOZzgw9hTb5Oj-1HFmmwU3OLgYxOn2GTQabh01LN34pJQcfmOX28H41yCdqCPikO/s1600/Bad+Seed+Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="493" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWgDxuDfaeaqP7K3yl-aL1nsNMfl6MbGKXrv61QtT_x6Vc2LrFByIlh1aXroJt2mhAKabpAl8NJ5fwOZzgw9hTb5Oj-1HFmmwU3OLgYxOn2GTQabh01LN34pJQcfmOX28H41yCdqCPikO/s640/Bad+Seed+Cover.png" width="524" /></a></div>
<br />
I had seen so much social media press about this story. So I had to pick up a copy and read it for myself. This story was great and did not disappoint me or my fifth graders. Loved the messages that change takes time and everyone gets to create their own destiny. I also loved that Bad Seed taught us that no one is perfect even bad seeds trying to be "good."<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2VkKMzQz3aumfS2WApRd5Td_SG9Xt686CYgAl1NK3GH7RN2U6NzA0I5IubmvnYlJiuLMkxxy23nPWIUDAQv6am_7OIyohqjVm4Mvwn7FWYkm25B5XjaV44jBHEwUekSrj6F4KTjaBPWy/s1600/Rescue+Dogs+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="350" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2VkKMzQz3aumfS2WApRd5Td_SG9Xt686CYgAl1NK3GH7RN2U6NzA0I5IubmvnYlJiuLMkxxy23nPWIUDAQv6am_7OIyohqjVm4Mvwn7FWYkm25B5XjaV44jBHEwUekSrj6F4KTjaBPWy/s640/Rescue+Dogs+Cover.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
This was a recent read. I picked up a copy at our local book festival, Books by the Banks. I loved all the photographs of shelter dogs and their rescue stories. I wish there was a little more about each dog or their new lives but I think this will make a nice addition to my classroom library along with my other photography based books like <i>Strong is the New Pretty.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPB9tl1LUiNVWy_pgSVhPpaKn59qM02UfiFCLLY-URT4V4c3NC8ekYGdFBUkqTGuuY3Mk8O3KKiip639JcFRcOBl0MDoKKv3nvK7FLTT23CBlUpOTa2bhC938RrGx2s4A6nIikobqUtqnv/s1600/dumplin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1274" data-original-width="843" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPB9tl1LUiNVWy_pgSVhPpaKn59qM02UfiFCLLY-URT4V4c3NC8ekYGdFBUkqTGuuY3Mk8O3KKiip639JcFRcOBl0MDoKKv3nvK7FLTT23CBlUpOTa2bhC938RrGx2s4A6nIikobqUtqnv/s640/dumplin.jpg" width="423" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My audiobook for October was <i>Dumplin'</i> and I'm a Julie Murphy fan for life. I love her writing style and the story of Willow Dean. I can't wait for the next installment <i>Puddin'. </i>From the Dolly references to the local beauty pageant - this book takes the crown! Loved Willow's sassy and bold voice while also showing that she can be insecure and vulnerable too. A great audiobook and fantastic story! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJxj9Zxk7UETUTXl4thg7CQV6TWpSEEm8lSV8oqqx5UVPCZFu5pj1Xhx8VL1mm7IHG4Lf0S1lwzYTQ6e14pavw-KKNIBN8hEikNwSPBzdFjRVNcEUG_DzGeDi7LHHhtPnN82w9ovCMA9_/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJxj9Zxk7UETUTXl4thg7CQV6TWpSEEm8lSV8oqqx5UVPCZFu5pj1Xhx8VL1mm7IHG4Lf0S1lwzYTQ6e14pavw-KKNIBN8hEikNwSPBzdFjRVNcEUG_DzGeDi7LHHhtPnN82w9ovCMA9_/s400/Slide2.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDwMJYTJ7fXz5Funew2r6c7L5vRV9ZKiE0sZSqpZCRuCqttd6jIPZHZANjb7pS1cdOEHb1IuoJjM1hVqP93DP6uZ8ttfBhgkt856Lx-TXsX5sOnW0757NSzEp9big39w1uO2QicTxa7Hk/s1600/Karma+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="286" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDwMJYTJ7fXz5Funew2r6c7L5vRV9ZKiE0sZSqpZCRuCqttd6jIPZHZANjb7pS1cdOEHb1IuoJjM1hVqP93DP6uZ8ttfBhgkt856Lx-TXsX5sOnW0757NSzEp9big39w1uO2QicTxa7Hk/s640/Karma+Cover.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I'm absolutely loving the voice of Karma is in this new middle grade novel. Perfect for upper grade readers that are starting to notice changes in themselves and with their friends. Karma's dealing with a lot from family changes to the seventeen hairs she discovers on her upper lip, this story is sure to connect with lots of kids, especially girls who find it hard to fit in during those middle school years. I can't wait to finish this book and share it with my students! I'm also super excited to meet author Kristi Weintge as she's coming to a local indie, <a href="http://www.bluemanateebooks.com/home/home.html" target="_blank">Blue Manatee Bookstore</a> in November!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKJJmUttluCe2NAUkPoOE15LyTTS6sVlg3I6FAxDs7mZsYP__D4rI7yL6f6_VxWi2Wq2lgeQNawnlzieKXU1BDSx3ohk2xs6MQTb-TiEEEp9yPM6cFhtEN2NUKHN1jPsqOF0LT0d_CeVu/s1600/Inquistors+Tale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="334" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKJJmUttluCe2NAUkPoOE15LyTTS6sVlg3I6FAxDs7mZsYP__D4rI7yL6f6_VxWi2Wq2lgeQNawnlzieKXU1BDSx3ohk2xs6MQTb-TiEEEp9yPM6cFhtEN2NUKHN1jPsqOF0LT0d_CeVu/s640/Inquistors+Tale.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I picked this book up last year prior to the Newbery awards. But I just couldn't get into it. I wanted to love it as I absolutely love Medieval historical fiction (major Karen Cushman fangirl! <i>Catherine Called Birdy</i> & <i>The Midwife's Apprentice</i> were my jam back in 6th grade) and really enjoyed The Canterbury Tales in high school. But alas, I just couldn't dig into it. So, I rebooted this time as an audiobook. I'm enjoying the audio although it is a little hard to keep track of all the characters telling the tales even though there is a whole cast of narrators. I also almost put it down again but I've reached the farting dragon and I think I'm finally hooked enough to finish this story! Finally, starting to feel like the story is coming together and moving in a direction I can get behind.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What are you currently reading?</i></b><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-24035859108931322482017-10-21T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-21T06:00:18.384-04:00#Classroombookaday Read This... Then That! Our #Classroombookday is going strong this year. We read a picture book every day Monday through Thursday. If you want to learn more about <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23classroombookaday&src=typd" target="_blank"><b>#Classroombookaday</b></a> check out the hashtag on Twitter or the <a href="https://nerdybookclub.wordpress.com/2017/07/03/classroombookaday-the-power-of-shared-picture-book-stories-by-jillian-heise/" target="_blank"><b>Nerdy Book Club post</b></a> by Jillian Heise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwz3ivJxDuxx_vVLven1iz0qu180nB8Q-ikaTInZFJF43c-IuL-E7fydVN4LN0wRpoR8sPsZhukkWeSa6fqUDJxD-EdP-n5pNoSaMn_bKJmfLoX2qWMguy3WRmHUhcnVG91XyF4_ZlGhD/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwz3ivJxDuxx_vVLven1iz0qu180nB8Q-ikaTInZFJF43c-IuL-E7fydVN4LN0wRpoR8sPsZhukkWeSa6fqUDJxD-EdP-n5pNoSaMn_bKJmfLoX2qWMguy3WRmHUhcnVG91XyF4_ZlGhD/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Today, I thought we'd match up some great picture books and novels! I know many of my students are making thematic connections between picture books and novels so why not pair up some picture books and novels! Plus, you could easily read one of these picture books Monday - Thursday and then share a novel counterpart for a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FirstChapterFriday?src=hash" target="_blank"><b>#FirstChapterFriday</b></a>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnb7ScWqNovoBHM7HLIvENVfFitR_h1oMtih2m-cEf9-aB79lZ9uiMJePdzxBPvoZ7lkUhKl6-8YQfPoffgw1QDufOTIFMNTMWTMctwSiReOJJV1Nm9J6jMs9h5nE-ubwEvWpPDtaB5Lf/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnb7ScWqNovoBHM7HLIvENVfFitR_h1oMtih2m-cEf9-aB79lZ9uiMJePdzxBPvoZ7lkUhKl6-8YQfPoffgw1QDufOTIFMNTMWTMctwSiReOJJV1Nm9J6jMs9h5nE-ubwEvWpPDtaB5Lf/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
If students love the humor and fractured fairy tale genre of <i>It's Not Jack in Beanstalk</i> by Josh Funk then they will love any of Liesel Shurtliff's fairy tale retellings including <i>Jack: The True Story of Jack and the Beanstalk</i>. Both of these "remakes" of classic fairy tales add lots of humor and dynamic characters to the mix. Imaginative and creative, both these stories have students reimagining these famous tales while laughing along the way! Both stories also make for an excellent read aloud as each "Jack" has such a strong voice and personality. I can't recommend both of these titles enough. If they are not currently in your classroom library, you'll want to order them ASAP!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh015Vso3CRXwcqgkXEs49EEAAnaghZjAGoSODTtlDCFdsSYJJt1tFB1oF7NktmGEiuYalcSooRxedz5B2-W_7WgR2aFKdO6lAmGaHU71owEFtxCbJ9Y0MzIGPSpY3eN4ML6HpfN0QJfH-i/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh015Vso3CRXwcqgkXEs49EEAAnaghZjAGoSODTtlDCFdsSYJJt1tFB1oF7NktmGEiuYalcSooRxedz5B2-W_7WgR2aFKdO6lAmGaHU71owEFtxCbJ9Y0MzIGPSpY3eN4ML6HpfN0QJfH-i/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm in love with <i>After the Fall</i>. After meeting Dan Santat two weeks ago and hearing him read <i>After the Fall</i>, I hope a shiny sticker will be on his cover come February. I was surprised and amazed by his new creation - if you haven't read this story yet, put a copy on hold at the library NOW. <i>Do it.</i> You'll thank me. As I was thinking back to novels with a similiar theme, I instantly thought of <i>Garvey's Choice</i>. Written in verse, Nikki Grime's story centers around a main character that is also trying to face his fears (and his father) while finding his place in the world. Both stories teach students about perseverance and having the courage to be who you were always meant to be. Although both characters often doubt themselves or are fearful at times, they eventually have the courage to let their true selves shine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFq3xxZyQZapFvAHMrHdmIzvIwyqfbXFfRhMDNzPZjdrMwwW75MKsHoA9wxQOFMwZxrH-HxFmAuX7eizQxJ1SIVQM4RS0s-GgqH5ASc38MgghZqRVFG4zQBjR0uo0wfaUNzem_gkXl3lh/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFq3xxZyQZapFvAHMrHdmIzvIwyqfbXFfRhMDNzPZjdrMwwW75MKsHoA9wxQOFMwZxrH-HxFmAuX7eizQxJ1SIVQM4RS0s-GgqH5ASc38MgghZqRVFG4zQBjR0uo0wfaUNzem_gkXl3lh/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
Both <i>We're All Wonders</i> and <i>Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus</i>, teach us that differences don't define us but instead make us "wonders." In some ways we are all wonders and that's what makes the world such a special place. Both Auggie and Aven have physical disabilities yet they don't let those differences stop them from living their lives. While both experience stares and sometimes glares, they both stand proud are not afraid to be themselves. Aven's voice will be one you won't soon forget and I'm hoping the Schneider Award Committee notices this middle grade gem!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEms5-wvYKemWGYOWr8T8hBghq-4_xfEPSqtF9PLrz5g4DKNYYUM8Iw_b45uA8F5YoxLDWyBB-xXiArR6iuI9oEhNxhtDC34yGGxFyqY_pllh8X_YUly_DJ6wgzVubSCOuPgqoc_PbURbC/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEms5-wvYKemWGYOWr8T8hBghq-4_xfEPSqtF9PLrz5g4DKNYYUM8Iw_b45uA8F5YoxLDWyBB-xXiArR6iuI9oEhNxhtDC34yGGxFyqY_pllh8X_YUly_DJ6wgzVubSCOuPgqoc_PbURbC/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
If you're looking for some great reads about taking risks, then you'll want to pick up <i>Jubari Jumps</i> and <i>Amina's Voice</i>. Both Jubari and Amina are facing some scary challenges from climbing up the highest diving board to a Quran reading competition. At first, both characters are afraid to try something new and face their fears. With a little help from their families (and friends), both characters face their fears with more confidence. Both stories are great for teaching growth mindset and the power of "yet." <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgabBQc0cWofSG6-v3sN2Xre6Ab56R8ulAzoyK6BpZDaIqYonIL9abtmpl2f6Q97_Mzet-35-0dNm_YXoP1jJuB1FPiF7y6d8HTcRXQHtma9xRK24OCGJJo1WE6yv9WO34dVdFWwczwy2NZ/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgabBQc0cWofSG6-v3sN2Xre6Ab56R8ulAzoyK6BpZDaIqYonIL9abtmpl2f6Q97_Mzet-35-0dNm_YXoP1jJuB1FPiF7y6d8HTcRXQHtma9xRK24OCGJJo1WE6yv9WO34dVdFWwczwy2NZ/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i>Nerdy Birdy</i> and <i>Real Friends</i> are two stories that are a must own for any elementary classroom library. Nerdy Birdy has a problem, he doesn't fit in with some of the other birds like the eagle and hawk. He finally finds birds that are just like him - nerdy! But he soon learns his fellow nerdy birdies may not be the true friends he's been looking for. Similarly, Shannon in <i>Real Friends</i> realizes she may not really fit into her group of "friends." Both Nerdy Birdy and Shannon, must seek out true friends that will appreciate them for who they are. Students will identify with both main characters as many middle grade readers also struggle to find those "real" best friends. Filled with themes of friendship and kindness, these books are for creating meaningful discussions around what it means to be a true friend.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What are your favorite picture book and novel mash-ups?</i></b><br />
<b><i>Happy Reading, </i></b><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-57551091284551480372017-10-14T11:45:00.001-04:002017-10-15T16:46:40.389-04:00Mock Newbery Write AroundIt feels like it's been ages since I've sat down and blogged. Truthfully, I'm a little sad because I absolutely love the time I spend blogging. I have a few new Read This & Then Read That posts planned out and hope to complete a few more Mock Newbery related posts as well. So, check back in soon!<br />
<br />
Today, I thought I'd share a little about how Mock Newbery is going so far in my classroom and share a few resources that were really helpful to me and my students!<br />
<br />
Since we only had 30 minutes for our first meeting, we tried to keep it simple. We read <u>The Last Stop on Market Street</u> and then discussed how that text was <i>distinguished</i>. This launched us into creating an anchor chart of what we can notice about a text and how different stories can be distinguished.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemJRvlEQYnxLDwf2M0O3P3PeqFwi2t8HDyX7C1KZPGVJnFpZauKckf-OIG7Y7lfuVt7lOEx7YWbEdY76KoKBkCtZC7vHCIJUXHKr6MPSXc8XJiAveN7ndNcgRLym7hkqIZg7x4q1fE6im/s1600/IMG_3810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemJRvlEQYnxLDwf2M0O3P3PeqFwi2t8HDyX7C1KZPGVJnFpZauKckf-OIG7Y7lfuVt7lOEx7YWbEdY76KoKBkCtZC7vHCIJUXHKr6MPSXc8XJiAveN7ndNcgRLym7hkqIZg7x4q1fE6im/s640/IMG_3810.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
These notes were taken inside manila folders next to their calendar of dates and some "teacher" reminders. To see our notes you can check out our handout {<b><a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IOp8bSRnVlo7HSbJTbkLMjqSYrmPVtiWDKGK0WAxajk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a></b>}.<br />
<br />
For our second meeting, we reviewed what it meant to be distinguished and then set kids off to talk about distinguished elements they've been noticing in their books. Last year, we had created a poster for each Mock Newbery Book. This year with more titles and a group of about 42 students, that just was not feasible. We focused our posters on story elements this year and students choose books that they felt had excelled in those areas.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Here are our results:</i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIPYD_sb0e9lVnyFAUSaltRvsToRpLjGJjTLKFjPjlo6B3gcrJpcbOFcvIMRkBRTSNacH-oY5RdhhGWvJjN-V75JgpN3l0fhSPVN-ITjQC9C5J0tz1Vy3_Rs1Iyb_Jn7lKzrsshewyrKt/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIPYD_sb0e9lVnyFAUSaltRvsToRpLjGJjTLKFjPjlo6B3gcrJpcbOFcvIMRkBRTSNacH-oY5RdhhGWvJjN-V75JgpN3l0fhSPVN-ITjQC9C5J0tz1Vy3_Rs1Iyb_Jn7lKzrsshewyrKt/s1600/Slide1.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglycQmNKp-2UjKvMWklF8hMb-oB6FVyXMHgE_XYl_WaV9Ws14e6l2f7Ms7p07jvb_6X4LVkeaSwc-SnpaqX3KBXD4Fmmz4CKvzKfLbOL-a-kNBa98CsfmqTYJMzuRzVwYE3YcdvbGxYPjK/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglycQmNKp-2UjKvMWklF8hMb-oB6FVyXMHgE_XYl_WaV9Ws14e6l2f7Ms7p07jvb_6X4LVkeaSwc-SnpaqX3KBXD4Fmmz4CKvzKfLbOL-a-kNBa98CsfmqTYJMzuRzVwYE3YcdvbGxYPjK/s1600/Slide3.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FzXf3h0fqV42TO3n79xYC_2RKjN-2cP7lVAXXyaiS9PHa9t3DxQoHHiax9jORJ5ozt9DgaPbNwQaQ9_HvresQdGBC0-As5RCQfPjAqn8FZR1ZzI_eMxvGBEf1QHzxEWMbJy8K67LcYbh/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FzXf3h0fqV42TO3n79xYC_2RKjN-2cP7lVAXXyaiS9PHa9t3DxQoHHiax9jORJ5ozt9DgaPbNwQaQ9_HvresQdGBC0-As5RCQfPjAqn8FZR1ZzI_eMxvGBEf1QHzxEWMbJy8K67LcYbh/s1600/Slide5.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1wXErGI_neYIzu_fTdOFqaUdd8Qdr01x4VFxE5YtTpSgb1eSauYOUtJ2RJ76X9kF2GKi1GAsbsWCxH32ST6mUFipTDpOCEw_kjb5VQlFLgvDiSZzPB7AjXStWb0aPB6DRywR4qJuKEgU/s1600/Slide7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1wXErGI_neYIzu_fTdOFqaUdd8Qdr01x4VFxE5YtTpSgb1eSauYOUtJ2RJ76X9kF2GKi1GAsbsWCxH32ST6mUFipTDpOCEw_kjb5VQlFLgvDiSZzPB7AjXStWb0aPB6DRywR4qJuKEgU/s1600/Slide7.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>If you would like a copy for your classroom, you can grab the Editable PowerPoint version </i>{<b><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3wbxXYGkBmpZGxxNWlIaGFzN28/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a></b>}<i> or the Non-editable PDF version </i>{<b><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3wbxXYGkBmpZVJIQjJVSTZlQTg/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a></b>}<i>. </i>Looking back, if I had to create these again, I'd use <u>Last Stop on Market Street</u> as that was a previous winner and a touchstone for all my book club students. However, in the moment, I used <u>Wish</u> by Barbara O'Connor because it is our current read aloud and a book all students are very familiar with.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Hope everyone else is enjoying these great books of 2017! </i></b><br />
<b><i>Look for a new Read This & Then That post soon! </i></b><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-69733204714251871862017-08-13T20:12:00.009-04:002017-08-13T20:30:23.395-04:00Mock Newbery Thoughts... So Far.I was incredibly lucky to to be able to present to local teachers about Mock Book Clubs at our Mason Learning Series this past week. I'm so thankful for the teachers that attended my session and excited that they wanted to empower their readers through a Mock Book Club.<br />
<br />
As the start school of approaches, I'm beyond excited to meet my new readers and <i>hopefully</i> new book clubbers! I thought I'd do a quick post today with a few front runners (<i>in my opinion</i>) for the Newbery award!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyw4JlB_3XCh1D3GNwjeGKxBzU5j3004tuURshGLHrGMCMflB2bVMrlKPyble5yu_lFWNB6WmH93WKp0alZ9wJdJCpP39ZRfuYoINJbHKynoPbKLJTfL-fRNR7FVosUfyselR62cicTyP/s1600/Mock+Newbery+Front+Runners.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyw4JlB_3XCh1D3GNwjeGKxBzU5j3004tuURshGLHrGMCMflB2bVMrlKPyble5yu_lFWNB6WmH93WKp0alZ9wJdJCpP39ZRfuYoINJbHKynoPbKLJTfL-fRNR7FVosUfyselR62cicTyP/s640/Mock+Newbery+Front+Runners.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>
Clayton Byrd Goes Underground</u> by Rita Williams Garcia</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zReNjgvuFl_PfMHfUK6qiDksCeY6GsXcGq37vmqnV7yPDQ32gpPjxt7EcH8cEmISp3j9Db6gOga62_bd4KFBtOSmuYR6RvrFN_8YV8K-epvjOgBcDgaFgg9K1m1jCZDg2DptwTxwlNDp/s1600/x500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="757" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zReNjgvuFl_PfMHfUK6qiDksCeY6GsXcGq37vmqnV7yPDQ32gpPjxt7EcH8cEmISp3j9Db6gOga62_bd4KFBtOSmuYR6RvrFN_8YV8K-epvjOgBcDgaFgg9K1m1jCZDg2DptwTxwlNDp/s640/x500.png" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
This book is <i>dare I say my new favorite</i> Rita Williams Garcia novel! The relationship between Clayton and Big Papa Byrd is unmatched. Their bond is one that will stick with me for a long time. It reminded me a lot of <i>The Hour of the Bees</i> which was my favorite and front runner last Newbery season. Rita Williams Garcia does a great mastering Clayton's voice and showcasing that although Clayton is a "good kid" - he can still make mistakes. It also highlights the notion that we can't know what we all carry with us as we go to school or about our day. Sometimes, we carry burdens of grief or sorrow that we hide away from others. Relationships run deep and we can't always assume how kids are feeling. I could hear the sorrowful melodies of Clayton playing his blues harp right beside Big Papa. I'm currently envisioning this story with a shiny sticker on its cover. <span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The audiobook of this text was superb! </span>An accessible and short text which is great for all middle grade readers. Grades 4+.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>
The Ethan I was Before</u> by Ali Standish</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHBIjSbvyfTi3uSHq0IY5IUe6yaV_2sdCm0a-y7xB3OtKkNWBv6jrwnWJUPyS1MYV_tkTpHyp4p8oxTOPUsN4iaXFnG12cAVxknFv14RZ6zBCYrxy_vMnLe3rgGR1-NXv5zXwPRvxTgr-/s1600/y648.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="396" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHBIjSbvyfTi3uSHq0IY5IUe6yaV_2sdCm0a-y7xB3OtKkNWBv6jrwnWJUPyS1MYV_tkTpHyp4p8oxTOPUsN4iaXFnG12cAVxknFv14RZ6zBCYrxy_vMnLe3rgGR1-NXv5zXwPRvxTgr-/s640/y648.png" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
I read this book last year and it's still a story I'm carrying with me. The craft of this story and the way subplots and plots weave together truly mesmerized me. I thought I knew how things may come together but I was taken on quite the ride as a reader! This book does a great job of address post traumatic stress disorder and how it can affect children. There is also a great deal of work in the development of Ethan "before" and "after" the incident. Perfect novel to address character change and theme. This book perhaps however is also a favorite because this book teaches that hope helps us cope with change, loss, and moving on. This book is a longer for some readers that may not have stamina or ability to connect all the stories however it's worth downloading the audiobook to support readers that may need it. Grades 4+.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>
Wishtree</u> by Katherine Applegate</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmrauidBSHnuvKpJ5HH5Fk6Ss0Ll2Tk0ZksXjMOIkS9zKeFUha4g8_Fxz6MrujHdbi05xjpF9dpp2gxLyKuG9lB32ms1tNSrOOSyQa9heM6hi89dg1wqGdHgijVXMDKHVO-ghn9khp4G3/s1600/wishtree_cover_illustrated-by-charles-santoso-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="650" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmrauidBSHnuvKpJ5HH5Fk6Ss0Ll2Tk0ZksXjMOIkS9zKeFUha4g8_Fxz6MrujHdbi05xjpF9dpp2gxLyKuG9lB32ms1tNSrOOSyQa9heM6hi89dg1wqGdHgijVXMDKHVO-ghn9khp4G3/s640/wishtree_cover_illustrated-by-charles-santoso-1.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
<br />
This book is timely. It is a story that needs to be shared with students TODAY. It is a story that all students and adults will instantly be able to connect with as it deals with fitting in and finding a true friend. Katherine Applegate manages to balance humor, wisdom, and heartache so artfully you'll be laughing and crying within pages. Red has a distant voice that you'll hear whispering as you walk past trees in your own neighborhood. Focused on the harassment of a Middle Eastern American, this story teaches empathy, compassion and the power of community. Short chapters are also ideal for reading this story aloud. I can't wait to see what the illustrations add to this text as well! Grades 3+ with support.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>
Refugee</u> by Alan Gratz</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmFMyxoYCIDh6NYZfnnSL18RBfn7UmvzoYA9gjAykAiDzR6agzI8lVkWEYpfYbhzF6IdL0Rupl-yIqX7JVlsqgRJXiVtzDY1U0KKR5jp0zQclt0qqOOtBBHpFt_gQEFkDGGSJg_BPvhtJ/s1600/REFUGEE+Final+Front+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1055" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmFMyxoYCIDh6NYZfnnSL18RBfn7UmvzoYA9gjAykAiDzR6agzI8lVkWEYpfYbhzF6IdL0Rupl-yIqX7JVlsqgRJXiVtzDY1U0KKR5jp0zQclt0qqOOtBBHpFt_gQEFkDGGSJg_BPvhtJ/s640/REFUGEE+Final+Front+Cover.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>Could there be an more relevant book released in 2017?</i> Refugee centers around three very different characters in three (seemingly) very different time periods. I'll admit I haven't finished this one yet but already, I know this is going to be a very powerful and profound story. You'll want to make sure you have this one your list and available to kids. It was not on my initial list but plan on having two copies to matriculate to interested readers. This title will also be at fall Scholastic Book Fairs and in the TAB Flyer for September if you need additional copies. For this book due to the context and some knowledge of history - I'd say Grades 5/6+.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Do you have a current favorite? </b><br />
<b>Share your front runners below in the comments!</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Happy Reading,</i><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-12974318956665095162017-07-09T08:50:00.003-04:002017-07-09T08:52:55.736-04:00#MockNewbery 2018 - My ListOn Nerd Camp eve, it seems only appropriate to share my list for Mock Newbery 2018. Although, I've not read all the books yet on my list, I've read most and I can say, I'm really excited about sharing these 18 titles with my new fifth graders!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAyfYu8RhquZDKlDwS4BHDJFH_Umd-JC2O33QNFVP1OekiEGNXZEnBYcTu2l8-XVusyoQ9CIO-DleScIBSVmV-s28EFD4THlT6YlA5S8Cx82D5VSZsgpnOTcehI1Gs-R4CVj80nS-j27u/s1600/Newbery+Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAyfYu8RhquZDKlDwS4BHDJFH_Umd-JC2O33QNFVP1OekiEGNXZEnBYcTu2l8-XVusyoQ9CIO-DleScIBSVmV-s28EFD4THlT6YlA5S8Cx82D5VSZsgpnOTcehI1Gs-R4CVj80nS-j27u/s640/Newbery+Button.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_ZRPY0Po_4lECyE3dB9LDWauR1C6E7I5ELfSS7HgdZKQAF5Emz71zMUdMeDKNEsMBm6uehBOeoyJcOgm4WEtzrVxh_6oQdt68uU_VS29_TKtXZIQylSwaswiLdrbOhlmIp1d-4Vg8Dw3/s1600/Mock+Newbery+List.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_ZRPY0Po_4lECyE3dB9LDWauR1C6E7I5ELfSS7HgdZKQAF5Emz71zMUdMeDKNEsMBm6uehBOeoyJcOgm4WEtzrVxh_6oQdt68uU_VS29_TKtXZIQylSwaswiLdrbOhlmIp1d-4Vg8Dw3/s1600/Mock+Newbery+List.PNG" /></a></div>
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-73546479986773206382017-07-03T10:46:00.003-04:002017-07-03T11:09:07.346-04:00#IMWAYR June Wrap-Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVNOk8pTh75gZQIfshsGJBlyZdiiUVfKBhS_LantKEThkwEHCPLvM7eeyAUuEf472aDwHqfAPXJh0JSRcs5er8bd3y_lc9BYrmRFO1xmi0JfTzU9viSvVccjs3zarBuPy5Hc3I_UfSobe/s1600/IMWAYR+2015.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVNOk8pTh75gZQIfshsGJBlyZdiiUVfKBhS_LantKEThkwEHCPLvM7eeyAUuEf472aDwHqfAPXJh0JSRcs5er8bd3y_lc9BYrmRFO1xmi0JfTzU9viSvVccjs3zarBuPy5Hc3I_UfSobe/s640/IMWAYR+2015.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Vl7NYtnyOpO1DKWLMqKS9rA5EEih-boeW1dmJ_ieKh2s2jbTtgoY6hlgQoPvdEGVbnMXy30AdmUFR1R1ms8ExBcY_AiZ8VpmPIgkseY0RfKf-wbuzDzSsT3Hobt5EUlAbGX_kikbPG-F/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Vl7NYtnyOpO1DKWLMqKS9rA5EEih-boeW1dmJ_ieKh2s2jbTtgoY6hlgQoPvdEGVbnMXy30AdmUFR1R1ms8ExBcY_AiZ8VpmPIgkseY0RfKf-wbuzDzSsT3Hobt5EUlAbGX_kikbPG-F/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't joined in the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23IMWAYR&src=tyah" target="_blank">#IMWAYR</a> in a while, so I thought this would be a great way to wrap up some amazing reads that I finished in June! A big focus this month has been on Mock Newbery contenders. I try to read as many of the books as possible so I can be a better book talker to my students (and of course be able to make my own predictions.) I'm also throwing myself into as many picture books as possible so that I can hit the ground running with #classroombookaday next year. You can see all my picture book reads and reviews on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/10104440?shelf=read" target="_blank">goodreads</a>. I'll focus on middle grade books for this post!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCmaruOyQh3TxvOAUgYPgnI3Y3vqtwZlEbeoxirptmpXZiw4sejfRGfnUKTMAvMKlQVdv8-I2za7eB3bD8KVHdO0fctO5wpUfP04Fwhi8f_mRnPHBRZYX7HzLnsLgAgrKwL6JVo2lSLSK/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCmaruOyQh3TxvOAUgYPgnI3Y3vqtwZlEbeoxirptmpXZiw4sejfRGfnUKTMAvMKlQVdv8-I2za7eB3bD8KVHdO0fctO5wpUfP04Fwhi8f_mRnPHBRZYX7HzLnsLgAgrKwL6JVo2lSLSK/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This diverse collection of short stories is a must for any middle grade classroom! I enjoyed listening to this book as a audio because each story was read by a different narrator. It kept the book moving forward and made the stories come to life. Kwame Alexander and Matt de la Pena had two of my favorite stories along with author Grace Lin. Many of the stories tackle issues that kids can relate too including stereotypes, fitting in, and finding your own way. You won't be disappointed in this collection and it'd be a perfect fit for the Reading Without Walls Challenge. Grades 5+.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_tMahG4NKGGbkMNKOMa_ub77EgEucj7KYU19jS-T-EDYsxFe6qNw9C7ZM2PtW8kPvLYIQTMHYw2iAWtJfyU1NtAmCAxeE4BldI1i3EYLo2V9NmRbnoDJEgQtt5l0WAeL_WQxzapzJj4GX/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_tMahG4NKGGbkMNKOMa_ub77EgEucj7KYU19jS-T-EDYsxFe6qNw9C7ZM2PtW8kPvLYIQTMHYw2iAWtJfyU1NtAmCAxeE4BldI1i3EYLo2V9NmRbnoDJEgQtt5l0WAeL_WQxzapzJj4GX/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This story and the cast of unforgettable characters captured my heart! Carter Higgins has created a fantastic read that will have you craving sweet potato fries and hot dogs. Everything is better at the ballpark and this story is no exception! Students will instantly connect with Derby and her love of all things food, family, and fun! From helping out a friend in need to training turtles this book has it all. Lots of great discussion to be had about losing a loved one and how friends and family can help you move on. On my #MockNewbery list for 2018. Grades 4+.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT__aHKgnBE6P5IED9guU9d1CsqVdqIXu1-NJVAwmyvu7KWWcJKTUwmW5u7Ksr4Kp6TO6BL6PPal6k-609CmpaCVpDWBeSxvKdUayNOnZtAvEowojSIjVhChUzNJiwiGowyq3SodZaCTez/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT__aHKgnBE6P5IED9guU9d1CsqVdqIXu1-NJVAwmyvu7KWWcJKTUwmW5u7Ksr4Kp6TO6BL6PPal6k-609CmpaCVpDWBeSxvKdUayNOnZtAvEowojSIjVhChUzNJiwiGowyq3SodZaCTez/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I have so many mixed feelings about this novel. I had heard some great things and read stellar reviews on goodreads, so I knew I had to pick up a copy. I'm glad I've read this book and was able to journey with Rydr as she comes to grips with loss, love, and life as she makes her way to an uncle she's never met. The writing is <i><b>fantastic</b></i>! However, I think School Library Journal and the author are a little out of touch with middle grade literature. This is NOT a middle grade novel in my opinion. From the Ginsberg references to the drug/relationship inferences - I'm not sure any 5th or 6th grade will fully comprehend the author's intent. I also was left without much hope for Rydr because her future was so uncertain. While I'm not saying the ending should be perfect - most MG books leave the reading feeling a sense of hopefulness for the future. I didn't get that feeling. I see this more of a YA book for 7th and 8th grade students. I believe that more books need to confront the drug problem we're facing in today's world but I'm not sure this is the book for younger students. Grades 7+.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQVEm1hpQP9vfvefCDyaqYAcEWPF98bLBSPcuqZsEtiStBnjnBqpARGKzhGw6bTVibQ4LPvbSZwoahGEhbHkDO4lM3RGW0Nu2Py5ocmk2XJ_pWhLnXvI9hclw4mUz_ewswNntWm08FRCuB/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQVEm1hpQP9vfvefCDyaqYAcEWPF98bLBSPcuqZsEtiStBnjnBqpARGKzhGw6bTVibQ4LPvbSZwoahGEhbHkDO4lM3RGW0Nu2Py5ocmk2XJ_pWhLnXvI9hclw4mUz_ewswNntWm08FRCuB/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Jen Maschari's newest book <i>Things That Surprise You</i> does not disappoint! I fell instantly in love wiht Emily Murphy and connected with her struggle to navigate the difficult world of middle school, divorce, and feeling like you matter. Emily's story is a must read for any middle schooler and Jen's own personal connections to the story make the story shine. It's realistic and true and students will appreciate some "messy" truths about life as a young adult. I read this book in just under 24 hours because the writing and story were so well crafted. You'll want to preorder this August release for your classroom or Mock Newbery book club. This title is definitely on my #MockNewbery 2018 list. Grades 4+.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUpHK8zKVvyW0Xn4sW5scVJM06d10cXLQprYN5_BuMzF8fwAOL2bKLYh278Y2E3eAp8Yg6mromo5hlE_VqkB2Z4YFPw683_oRMXJwQOVJKVZ-A_RGsverwsRzSfQepN7IoTPY0Uy7a8oJ/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUpHK8zKVvyW0Xn4sW5scVJM06d10cXLQprYN5_BuMzF8fwAOL2bKLYh278Y2E3eAp8Yg6mromo5hlE_VqkB2Z4YFPw683_oRMXJwQOVJKVZ-A_RGsverwsRzSfQepN7IoTPY0Uy7a8oJ/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Izzy Kline has butterflies about starting fifth grade and auditioning for the school play. She's also worried about friends and fitting in. Told in verse and through "small moments" in Izzy's life, this story is a fast read that students will love! Izzy's life is heart-warming and easily relatable to any one that's tried to set outside their comfort zone. Grades 4+.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGi04Hb42IUVJIjTFGHeFSR05j8Mb_v9XP6Py5CUCkFQ8OFMkQCTLIyjKZJhyphenhyphenjcM8wCyW6lZumM4GTyo_-IlJ8ugJ6k3BhLysYoQrcHc8Wgz20sMBW3BhGWk1-_zkoeRNShJeVzE8VDxS/s1600/Slide7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="816" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGi04Hb42IUVJIjTFGHeFSR05j8Mb_v9XP6Py5CUCkFQ8OFMkQCTLIyjKZJhyphenhyphenjcM8wCyW6lZumM4GTyo_-IlJ8ugJ6k3BhLysYoQrcHc8Wgz20sMBW3BhGWk1-_zkoeRNShJeVzE8VDxS/s640/Slide7.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Is it too early to say this is a Newbery contender?</i> This story instantly took me back to my first time reading <i>The Giver</i> in 6th grade. The world that Laurel Synder has built is magical and realistic -- so much so you'll never want to leave Orphan Island. The characters and setting make for a wonderful tale of nine children thriving on an island. This story captured my attention from the first sentence to the last period. I read this book in 2 days trying to savor the ending. I've seen some mixed reviews about pacing online - but I felt the story flowed as you witness first hand the blurred lines between childhood and young adulthood. Jinny's story is one that many students will want to read again as they try and put together the puzzle that is Orphan Island. So many questions and metaphors, this book kept me thinking even after the last page. A must have for middle grade dystopian and fantasy lovers! On my Mock Newbery for 2018. Grades 4+.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Currently, I'm reading</b> <b><i>Hello, Universe</i> & listening to the audiobook for </b><span style="font-weight: bold;"><i>See You in the Cosmos</i></span><b>. </b><br />
<b><i>What's your list for July?</i></b><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-14823371550496843472017-06-21T13:05:00.001-04:002017-06-21T13:05:21.211-04:00What We ValueAs I sit waiting for the Chicago Reading Summit's Facebook Live video to kick off, I'm thinking about how I should have saved some extra money and made the four hour drive. Why would I do that? <i><b>Because I value reading and learning. </b></i>It's worth it to me to spend a day around people I know will better me as a teacher and learner. Thankfully, Nerd Camp isn't too far away and for two days I'll be immersed in all things books, authors, publishing, learning & general nerdiness. Okay, <i>nerdiness </i>may not be a word but it totally should be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuP2AzbRpK-aL8QONabq4vMlIG0K0Ruog86Q1WClyldZgJLgBr08GrzluyMYAYByp46H19u3GpXiIiPdmKrZdBOghXpysPvifHuIPRsBjle4a8MHyPYmvKjMeAGyLU8xm1SGl-vCktCwlS/s1600/Value+Image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuP2AzbRpK-aL8QONabq4vMlIG0K0Ruog86Q1WClyldZgJLgBr08GrzluyMYAYByp46H19u3GpXiIiPdmKrZdBOghXpysPvifHuIPRsBjle4a8MHyPYmvKjMeAGyLU8xm1SGl-vCktCwlS/s640/Value+Image.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I wholeheartedly believe that teachers need the summer to rest and recharge. But we also need summer to work on <b><i>our foundations</i></b> - read a professional book, read some #kidlit, subscribe to a podcast or attend a workshop or two, etc. -- so that we can be better teachers come fall. I feel like I've heard too many teachers lately say (or post), <i>Well I don't have time to read</i> or <i>I haven't read a book in ages</i>. Some of these teachers have been fellow language arts teachers. <i><b>This is unacceptable.</b></i> If we value reading and learning, then we add it to our schedules. We make time in the car, between appointments, at baseball games - we read in those edge moments to fit it in <i>because it matters. </i><b>Reading is important. </b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8gJMN8IssFKW8Qa8OfHaRmzT0NX6ZSt8pXcmdasXGfHwa0YM0m2Sf37Fg4q1lqURNasxRM_fGBjODtaHkVQji-Tb6YRNGTXNpvAW9j-XRGggldFHDMA_6qh5JiPInHWs0EdMqms54RCi/s1600/IMG_2078.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8gJMN8IssFKW8Qa8OfHaRmzT0NX6ZSt8pXcmdasXGfHwa0YM0m2Sf37Fg4q1lqURNasxRM_fGBjODtaHkVQji-Tb6YRNGTXNpvAW9j-XRGggldFHDMA_6qh5JiPInHWs0EdMqms54RCi/s640/IMG_2078.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If we're not reading and keeping up with current literature, how are we supposed to get students on board? Specifically, students that already have the mindset that reading is not for them. I'm not saying you need to be reading a book a day or even a week but a book or two over the summer isn't unreasonable. Read a picture to your kids. Choose a short story collection. <i><b>Just choose something you can read <u>and</u> share with kids.</b></i> I'm usually able to finish an audiobook in about 14 days by just driving around and running errands over the summer. I also often listen in the shower each morning on my wireless speaker. It can be done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0XqI2aNYWlhgK9a8KaJBmTPjmklqf_nsJrHjPcTMIszOkgBjvadZqmV2JX_qbU50LGk3BYDdjIpiiqpX_zpkX_r-3i1cV8w6extMf9ZGKBA-u7YfN7VEoECAgN6U5-8XQndMwg6JVsxm/s1600/IMG_2076.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0XqI2aNYWlhgK9a8KaJBmTPjmklqf_nsJrHjPcTMIszOkgBjvadZqmV2JX_qbU50LGk3BYDdjIpiiqpX_zpkX_r-3i1cV8w6extMf9ZGKBA-u7YfN7VEoECAgN6U5-8XQndMwg6JVsxm/s640/IMG_2076.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Why is this important?</b></i> Because as teacher we're role model readers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Check out the research and key findings from <b><a href="http://www.scholastic.com/readingreport/key-findings.htm" target="_blank">Scholastic's Kids and Family Reading Report</a></b>.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<i>Look into your life.</i> <i><b>Where does reading fit in? Is it valued?</b></i> Have you read a children's book published in 2016 or 2017? If not, then maybe you to look at your daily habits. How can you fit reading into your life? Start taking a book with you in your bag or car. Download an audiobook app. Listen at the gym, pool or before yoga. Not sure what to read? Jump on Twitter or Goodreads - what are other teachers reading? #Mglit , #Kidlit and #Opportunity2Read are hashtags that can help you find great books.<br />
<br />
You can't be the best reading teacher if you're not reading. <i>End of story.</i>Would <i>you</i> trust a baseball coach who hasn't picked up a baseball in the last five years? Would y<i>ou</i> take lessons from a band teacher that doesn't play an instrument? Would <i>you</i> want to go to a doctor that hasn't read any new research in the past year? Your students deserve it, you owe it to them to hone your craft.<i style="font-weight: bold;"> So many of us are already doing all these things. </i>But, if you're not, this post is not meant to shame but open your eyes and motivate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh-HwCBXvy1mejWSHoehU4grssfO1zinJl2cllvU2r1cVOqmUvJeIDhjxZafwKYB5cSlUx7W03ijXqxfr1KxlD57RLSYDskoL0PqNbxkxNw3qfJUCh3LdetK_UYvZYIyCjNXgmZYrk2Y7/s1600/IMG_2079.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh-HwCBXvy1mejWSHoehU4grssfO1zinJl2cllvU2r1cVOqmUvJeIDhjxZafwKYB5cSlUx7W03ijXqxfr1KxlD57RLSYDskoL0PqNbxkxNw3qfJUCh3LdetK_UYvZYIyCjNXgmZYrk2Y7/s640/IMG_2079.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>Stop the excuses. Make time. Put it on your list. </i></b><br />
<b><i>Just do it because your students are worth it.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-939955795666036502017-06-19T05:00:00.000-04:002017-10-15T16:52:55.392-04:00Read This ... Then That! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3hDLHLVZ4mebPVTlNVlc-aBMoBLO87YhgVmIL2mFn65B5ayzkfoLTe6pkhEbIUDMdrRVfpyO7FJa2Br6N_rO1qh2s5W9H9RXiRDkPy8GlOAfyQvy1-O9s4sHBws1R1IusT4vH0BoMast/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3hDLHLVZ4mebPVTlNVlc-aBMoBLO87YhgVmIL2mFn65B5ayzkfoLTe6pkhEbIUDMdrRVfpyO7FJa2Br6N_rO1qh2s5W9H9RXiRDkPy8GlOAfyQvy1-O9s4sHBws1R1IusT4vH0BoMast/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're like me, you are always looking for the next book to read or recommend that is similiar to a book you were head-over-heels for! <i>Book-hangovers are the worst!</i> And the cure? Find another amazing title! Kids feel this, too! I have students ask all the time for books that are similiar in concept or style to other favorite books and authors. I try and keep a list of books and authors that kids may like if they've found a favorite read - however, as I read more, it's <i>impossible</i> to keep up. Therefore, it's mostly in my head... I'm hoping to share my thoughts and turn this into a regular (<i>monthly, perhaps?</i>) series on the blog. For this first installment, I decided to pick <i>"that"</i> books that have been or will be released in 2016/2017. <i>I know I always dread the, "I read that in 4th grade."</i> So, <i>hopefully</i>, these books will be <b><i>brand sparkly </i></b><i><b>new</b></i> to your students as they look for their next amazing read!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Swing-Sideways-Nanci-Turner-Steveson/dp/1504733053" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizYp0IIz4pcFKK3-w9pCjoTRKbAIz7A9fRth4zt8s8H0LE4g97zefhZ-ZYWakwZWnNKD4Fk9I2u8toV64w3puZFwCcIONPZv8V1CA-PZ-GtaH34iiJ3n_rIAioY9HhUoJ30V9nVaacYvdy/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
Why?</h3>
These books are an ideal pairing! If students loved the friendship of Jess and Leslie, then they'll fall in love with Annie and California. In each book, the characters, take to the woods together, creating a place all their own. Annie and California set their sights on solving a family mystery that could help heal old wounds. Both books also deal with loss and how family can bring you strength during tough times. Hopefully, you're students' hearts will swing sideways for this natural match-up!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Miss-Millie-Tamara-Bundy/dp/0399544569" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2S7tDT22mxcu6EOlgxJxb09BYnqNjQeF_YGuxJcpr5_-nJtSEthZTrBzt6y9AZAOT_-k-rW6t053WE8NlvKd30JBO9jsZh5vjtHKUMTMG5SGANFuJD-3tZAzeU1rkOMKs3JwQx6Xi1T4u/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2>
</h2>
<h3>
Why?</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Historical fiction duo that will take you back in time! After an integrated Civil Rights Unit, my students couldn't get enough historical fiction. Many students adored the book Making Friends with Billy Wong which centered on an unlikely friendship between Azalea and Billy. If students loved the 1960's time period and unlikely friendship, then they'll be ready to meet Alice and Miss Millie down in Rainbow, Georgia. Like Azalea, Alice is not happy about spending the summer away from home with her grandma. And when she learns she is moving to Rainbow, Alice can only think about her home back in Columbus, Ohio. However, soon Alice finds some unlikely friends in Georgia and begins to think that maybe a fresh start isn't so bad after all. <b><i>Walking with Miss Millie will be released on July 4, 2017! Preorder your copy(s) now! </i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Things-That-Surprise-Jennifer-Maschari/dp/0062438921/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497840748&sr=8-1&keywords=Things+that+Surprise+You" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTOx3p7REIsvUE3ENyKhiqkZwkA8bATfJ9WeJThNCFlsBFDYJG-ufAnuhE1mm4xQBrjNXJBpeZWKwYuuSR6v6DxSh-E-vJaQcLgPZBhrjH_CF5Jjrc7skISMKvOlnHpNDoX1Mw_id0YwC/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
<br />Why?</h3>
If students loved the dynamic and often conflicted character of Thyme, then students will instantly connect with the vibrant and often the messy life of Emily Murphy. These two books tackle tough family issues! Both books center around two strong female main characters that are ready to make a plan to change their lives! However, life seems to get in the way! Both girls try to balance out their seemingly small problems to larger family issues. They learn however that their problems and feelings matter, too. Both authors address tough issues (cancer and anorexia) with grace and poise while offering readers "real truths" about friends, family, and life. <b><i>Things that Surprise You will be released on August 22nd! Make sure you have a copy or two for your classroom library! </i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rambler-Steals-Home-Carter-Higgins/dp/0544602013/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497841421&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Rambler+Steals+Home" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIog7aVR-1JU1myrV99zdw1v_IMKmW1jMG9_qrwxy6KvoK6c41pECY9htsAO9Ukz9nSDkT3Iyah40GJ2mapxRMn7dwAGEY9L2rSGAFxQIMDE6sucvxNm7u-fTOiXxmLaKAgt-YE5RvaoA/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
Why?</h3>
If students loved the ballpark magic in <i>The Distance to Home</i>, then they are sure to love the magic and mystery of Ridge Creek, Virginia. Like Quinnen in <i>The Distance to Home</i>, Derby Christmas Clark from <i>A Rambler Steals Home</i>, is also missing a loved one. The stadium provides a welcome distraction as both girls learn to move on and face their problems. From hot dogs to turtle races, these books capture summertime at the ballpark flawlessly. Yet, these stories are more than your average "sports" story. Both authors craft a compelling story that will keep readers invested and engaged in the lives of the people and players involved with minor league baseball. Themes of hope, home, and family will have Quinnen and Derby sliding into your readers' hearts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Shadow-Erin-Downing/dp/1481475215/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1497839512&sr=8-2&keywords=Moon+Shadow" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vzOcdK4FES3vbfOoJLSd5rPWo9mglm_qf4NL39h1g6wbN-17EhVBXVaQxhCgdOJjr_T_ZBNeEFDOf_gnQ4JlPu4H9MasDo5y-WckefSmeLc2ogu9rI8b5uhKKBLnOIApDRcIriemBiFS/s640/Slide7.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
Why?</h3>
If students loved the magic and mystery in <i>Crenshaw,</i> then they will love reading about a magical eclipse in <i>Moon Shadow</i>. Both books offer realistic stories with hints of fantasy and magic sprinkled throughout. Moon Shadow also includes "dark" chapters throughout written by a mysterious presence. In each novel, characters must come to terms with themselves before taking on their other half. These books do a fantastic job of including realistic characters that have real life problems such as struggling with poverty and the separation of parents. Themes surrounding friendship, secrets, and finding your true self are abundant in both these stellar reads! The <i><b>lasting lines</b></i> in each book will be sure to leave an imprint on your readers' lives.<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Click any of the images to be taken to Amazon's page for each "That" book.</i></b><br />
<br />
Do you have a suggestion for a <b><i>Read This & Then That</i></b> mash-up?<br />
Comment below with some ideas or topics you'd like to see in the future!<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-74608401856165186792017-06-08T05:00:00.000-04:002017-06-08T05:00:03.884-04:00Embracing Restless Reading Moments<b><i>Summer is finally here!</i></b> And although, I can't quite read a #bookaday, I can tackle so much more reading during the summer. My current TBR "pile" is in fact <i><b>several shelves</b></i> at my house. I currently have about eight Mock Newbery contenders to read, six #BookJourney ARCs (some still in mailers), and four professional development books I've been itching to sink into. However, I've noticed some of my reading habits have changed this summer and I've become some what of a <i>restless reader</i>. I don't sit and devour books but I've been more keen on enjoying a book with coffee in the morning and then coming back to the read later that night. Although it's summer, <i><b>I've been reading in edge moments </b></i>so that I can tackle other projects throughout the day. I'm also nearly always juggling two or three different stories.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnXNUdz34be7jPWTJvRzSj-xQo3fBWtJiehlTErO0KgnnlNC9Jbsp1k92RV5KQfANHygvag53_Lrsnw8T-igMky5jsrzsuf6qQCFOdUoAaua4-QEvtIeuN_OXlWSBS-QEOEPAhp12PS9W/s1600/Restless+Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnXNUdz34be7jPWTJvRzSj-xQo3fBWtJiehlTErO0KgnnlNC9Jbsp1k92RV5KQfANHygvag53_Lrsnw8T-igMky5jsrzsuf6qQCFOdUoAaua4-QEvtIeuN_OXlWSBS-QEOEPAhp12PS9W/s640/Restless+Button.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Since the end of school, it seems I've had a middle grade novel, audiobook (often YA), and several picture books all in the rotation. And, I don't think this is necessarily a bad habit. There will be those pool side moments where I can sit and devour a book - but I think embracing the restless moments are important too. <span style="font-style: italic;"><b>Real reading is restless at times and that's okay.</b></span> I feel like I know several of my students so much better as they were the ones with three or four books going at various times during the school year. I used to think that those students should abandon some of those books or put them on hold. I'd advise them to try and focus on one or two stories that they are really enjoying. <i>I wish I could apologize. </i>Like them, I realize, I am enjoying<i> all</i> the books I'm reading but I've felt the need to change the line up throughout the day or week. As my attention wonders, I start a new book or go back to one I've put on hold. A staycation for my mind? <i>New characters, new scenery, new attitude. </i>I'm not sure what the rest of this summer will bring and hopefully slowing things down will ease my restlessness. Or perhaps, I'm just capitalizing on more opportunities throughout the day instead of one long period. However, as I sit and reflect, I'm aware that<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b><i><b>noticing changes in our own reading lives can only make us better readers and teachers. </b></i><br />
<br />
I've found that YA audiobooks, historical fiction, as well as short stories have really captured my attention during these past several weeks. Here are a few books to consider for yourself (or students) that are having trouble getting lost in a good book...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWnfkkCObbdOLzV2D5W3dvy36_3FygOS9vj6dR1VS2IAn-WYZ4iDGcykoixr0f8SSYZC7YBW75PrkFaR1e7RsWiVyGyeDoxPjfOPSQjLFBmU14ZhjtJScZFQaRXTbYjNkC2aMKWNM0R5P/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWnfkkCObbdOLzV2D5W3dvy36_3FygOS9vj6dR1VS2IAn-WYZ4iDGcykoixr0f8SSYZC7YBW75PrkFaR1e7RsWiVyGyeDoxPjfOPSQjLFBmU14ZhjtJScZFQaRXTbYjNkC2aMKWNM0R5P/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RnyCQDO3y7Ke4gsCU1MNp9rkYkV3EO83ECtREQeCQikdo1c43f6azFx83obbphm0tHW1JS4aXMjnrjOwb5gC6tQnWZv9xA1BRROHUS5l9g-OPkfknvbCo3oYxvnuIHhsqTOcok44yqfu/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4RnyCQDO3y7Ke4gsCU1MNp9rkYkV3EO83ECtREQeCQikdo1c43f6azFx83obbphm0tHW1JS4aXMjnrjOwb5gC6tQnWZv9xA1BRROHUS5l9g-OPkfknvbCo3oYxvnuIHhsqTOcok44yqfu/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2H8DjFUKiRkSmsLF1mdjh_zPA-qoSWYxZQMXVR0tlxzJtHoX2YrFbdaRiW901VUvq0FowCwhWPeP3fx5yZQCQ5FD1keKbpZxNcIf35qawpY5mqQvSpjeJNKvjCYoNODwnZJizVTUa-mH/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2H8DjFUKiRkSmsLF1mdjh_zPA-qoSWYxZQMXVR0tlxzJtHoX2YrFbdaRiW901VUvq0FowCwhWPeP3fx5yZQCQ5FD1keKbpZxNcIf35qawpY5mqQvSpjeJNKvjCYoNODwnZJizVTUa-mH/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>Happy Reading! </i></b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-61655095658416428832017-06-03T05:00:00.000-04:002017-06-03T09:38:31.651-04:00Mock Newbery Questions Answered (Part Two)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRSnE1KbShy8R8qd088dc0ksd4f6_KIqygvQjsYjCypt9n_yzeR9A-Oj3-FDMXOTNLsTfGd7WChtzj3Ol2ffFbP4k_rglCfIBszZ1eJYqdtg1y88zS_L29Bss8Zeg-U4joHUxmsFaSkus/s1600/Blog+Button+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRSnE1KbShy8R8qd088dc0ksd4f6_KIqygvQjsYjCypt9n_yzeR9A-Oj3-FDMXOTNLsTfGd7WChtzj3Ol2ffFbP4k_rglCfIBszZ1eJYqdtg1y88zS_L29Bss8Zeg-U4joHUxmsFaSkus/s640/Blog+Button+2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Hopefully, many of you with questions read {<a href="http://www.myshoestringlife.com/2017/06/mock-newbery-questions-answered-part-one.html" target="_blank">Part One</a>} of my Mock Newbery Questions Answered series and are now ready for Part Two! Part Two will focus on what to do once you get your books...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeOJ80CTR4oMOFoeYFDpLeZ3YQ76_sKrCY-kawRMiZpA8JFdILmFgz1dbhJ26Qkd4vxW568NjWNIm4owAZ1Qva45c74wsGsZmyHDbnYo4-bn0E3J3oO5rMcnCuGjRPVq-joDvw9O5mbNJ/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeOJ80CTR4oMOFoeYFDpLeZ3YQ76_sKrCY-kawRMiZpA8JFdILmFgz1dbhJ26Qkd4vxW568NjWNIm4owAZ1Qva45c74wsGsZmyHDbnYo4-bn0E3J3oO5rMcnCuGjRPVq-joDvw9O5mbNJ/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<i style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></i>
<i style="font-weight: bold;">How do you get kids excited? What do you do once they've signed up? </i>Before my teaching partner and I created a sign up, we gave a book talk to all our students. We knew that for many of them our Open House Letter {<a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1NLzRni9MnFxgZaKjtIzuHL5kH0TB-FhKO_Vf1XGXaIM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">2018 Letter</a>} may not be enough to get kids pumped for a great book club! So, we took about 20 - 30 minutes out of our day and book talked our first round of books. We also hooked kids by sharing about author Skypes and some books we'd be getting that weren't released yet! Last year a huge draw was being one of the first few to read Raina Telgemeier's <i>Ghosts</i>. Book Talks and Book Trailers are a great way to generate some excitement before starting a sign-up. I keep my Book Talks super simple - read the first page/line of a book and show a trailer if it's available. You can check out a book talk I did for our last year's Mock {<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3wbxXYGkBmpTlgxaE5DQk1kRXc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>}.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What is required once they sign up?</i></b> Last year, we made the kids "pledge" that they'd read six books from our list of 18. However, with bigger than expected turnout and some readers that read at a slower pace, the average student only finished 2-4 books. This was a bit of a let down for me. I was really hoping kids would fly through the choices and while they did love the books - many just didn't have the stamina to read a book every two weeks. This year, I'm going to have to my students pledge to read four books. That's a book a month during the book club. They can always read more. I think that is feasible and they can always use that book as their in class reading book as well. I also chunked my books into two huge chunks this year to get more books out and circulating within the club.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Okay, teachers, let's get real for a second here. </i></b>The purpose of Mock Newbery (IMO) is for students to begin to participate in real life, authentic reading. This is NOT be taken for a grade. No worksheets. No book reports. Keep it authentic. Make it optional. I've never done a worksheet or created a cereal box book report at a book club meeting. In real life, you sit and have coffee and talk about books. <i>What did you love? What was frustrating? What surprised you?</i> This is how a real book club works and this should be the focus of Mock Newbery as well. Yes, you can plan activities to help aid conversations but it should feel authentic. Help kids see that reading is a life long habit and a fun hobby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W8bWiTfmhJ_DbsFcfhRo300iOZvdFRFbDHL70qUdx6ugv1DdoiiOfJ7LyL_vJ2V6frZIRa2NNcOZUiHl33ihyphenhyphencxWd6-TTK8_fUEyhxxm3elK5CFw2-Kcqs84eXKlUClsVfsvLUj-o7e1/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W8bWiTfmhJ_DbsFcfhRo300iOZvdFRFbDHL70qUdx6ugv1DdoiiOfJ7LyL_vJ2V6frZIRa2NNcOZUiHl33ihyphenhyphencxWd6-TTK8_fUEyhxxm3elK5CFw2-Kcqs84eXKlUClsVfsvLUj-o7e1/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>How do you keep track and check out books?</i></b> I keep it super simple. Stacey from <a href="http://www.literacyforbigkids.com/" target="_blank">Literacy for Big Kids</a> helped me out so much during my first year of Mock Newbery. I had asked her this same question and she shared her checkout page with me! I updated it to fit my needs. Here's the <a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/12Gqc-dJo-Mdbs2yYSAtNszDoPbRgtaqGZTfjd-P1yGg/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Google Doc</a> I came up with! You could easily keep this electronically but I prefer to print it out and put it on a clipboard right on the corner of my desk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEvR7vfkj_A3t80QdBan0PrTnhdRrfR7AAeoTxQBL8qbTA2AJ2J__yhe0aOIH9H1SIlFnaqgzhFIZKTjKIO_4j3J_Aur9iKGevAaET9hUDPGiDzGCjr8GbZD19islBeCJHvMdq_pHK_SJ4/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEvR7vfkj_A3t80QdBan0PrTnhdRrfR7AAeoTxQBL8qbTA2AJ2J__yhe0aOIH9H1SIlFnaqgzhFIZKTjKIO_4j3J_Aur9iKGevAaET9hUDPGiDzGCjr8GbZD19islBeCJHvMdq_pHK_SJ4/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As a kid checks out or in a book - I can mark it off. I also numbered all my books hence the (#) column so I could keep track of copies that were left or dropped in the hallway. I decided it was easiest to highlight returned books, so I took off the return column later in the year. Feel free to make a copy and adjust to fit your needs!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8WYH3Fm8eUl28gL6cm0_HL2de8CBJb50muTOnGK_F3ejAiVPgi-0MjBOLMNWY4vriIKDwROVStxP4_W6_yzATfmxqpH6wuSXp3eNQlLLaNNRuVhiEj3Bo_6f4gwoFvbPsGZyPX0hdUpL/s1600/Slide7.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8WYH3Fm8eUl28gL6cm0_HL2de8CBJb50muTOnGK_F3ejAiVPgi-0MjBOLMNWY4vriIKDwROVStxP4_W6_yzATfmxqpH6wuSXp3eNQlLLaNNRuVhiEj3Bo_6f4gwoFvbPsGZyPX0hdUpL/s640/Slide7.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>What does the first meeting look like? </i></b>Last year during our first meeting we talked about the requirements for the Newbery. There is a pretty good short video explaining the medal {<a href="https://youtu.be/9jhistgsIDo" target="_blank">here</a>}. We then talked about what being "distinguished" meant. This was something that many students hadn't really thought about as they were reading before so we talked about how that's the purpose of the actual Newbery Committee- <i><b>read</b></i>, looking for those elements that are distinguished.<br />
<br />
I also shared <u>The Last Stop on Market Street </u>with my students as an example of a distinguished text. We ran of time last year before we could fully discuss all the great writing found in <u>The Last Stop on Market Street</u>. This year I have two picture books I'd like to share - <u>The Last Stop on Market Street</u> and <u>Balderdash!: John Newbery and the Boisterous Birth of Children's Books.</u><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJzHYsKQLHqm-QxOmUXSIfdgEYVCXqEpICn9m7SrlzhZZENM2Sf3mpZlNi-b11WIS1u3IxpnTbQB3iAU6zBO5z7UPiANRMZWBAxQhSfGoAsylqdcNXbXH7bQMq8hjuBcs3YI-1cxoypN6/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJzHYsKQLHqm-QxOmUXSIfdgEYVCXqEpICn9m7SrlzhZZENM2Sf3mpZlNi-b11WIS1u3IxpnTbQB3iAU6zBO5z7UPiANRMZWBAxQhSfGoAsylqdcNXbXH7bQMq8hjuBcs3YI-1cxoypN6/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm hoping to break it into two meetings or perhaps even share one in class as way to generate some buzz before sign-ups. I highly recommend buying or checking these books out from the library if you're planning on hosting a Newbery Book Club. We also made an anchor chart at one of our first meetings that reminded students what to look for in a Newbery winner such as unique & distinguished: characters, setting, plot, language or style/format.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ds3Pb4URi-NX7JZPaQk2sysEAIjd8Khsc44WEe7PJVedsXWyKy6qy-xzaubk00AftGY2UIZDGAaosBPJTQhBj2LKBLlTPW4iQJUguxBFQEf-gqKWMgizs7e08lOn7gE0b-nHN5jqJXgz/s1600/Slide8.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ds3Pb4URi-NX7JZPaQk2sysEAIjd8Khsc44WEe7PJVedsXWyKy6qy-xzaubk00AftGY2UIZDGAaosBPJTQhBj2LKBLlTPW4iQJUguxBFQEf-gqKWMgizs7e08lOn7gE0b-nHN5jqJXgz/s640/Slide8.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>What do meetings look like? When do you hold meetings? Who runs the meetings? </i></b>I tried to have a Skype a month (or so) and then also a meeting each month for discussion. We varied the activities from creating medals to hosting a round table discussion about the distinguished qualities of the books we were reading. I also set up a Mock Newbery group on Google Classroom for kids to go on and post thoughts as they were reading.<br />
<br />
This year, I want to capitalize on Flipgrid and set up a grid where kids can give their own book talk and reviews as well as feedback about what distinguished characteristics they noticed. I'm hoping that utilizing platforms online like Google Classroom and Flipgrid will keep the converstations going between meetings.<br />
<br />
In December, we held a full group meeting to discuss our favorite contenders. Kids were able to stand up and give reasons why their favorite books should win our Infinity Newbery. Prior to the debate kids were able to get into groups and come up with the top three reasons that their book should win the Newbery, keeping in mind they had to <i>prove</i> it was distinguished in some way.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Here are a few snapshots of our Round Table discussion & Skype with author Melanie Conklin! </i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7u0Bdkmf1yMNIU49HlO-qHi_WLErgx3LoikkCPCDdckMxupLq395xuJaD96hCdoqw4X_yn4e26FIi51j_HeR5frRXl11pgm_H5FVybWFY6ATpRcfEBpx9Zle1i7QKHeXTonCRVz7psdS6/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7u0Bdkmf1yMNIU49HlO-qHi_WLErgx3LoikkCPCDdckMxupLq395xuJaD96hCdoqw4X_yn4e26FIi51j_HeR5frRXl11pgm_H5FVybWFY6ATpRcfEBpx9Zle1i7QKHeXTonCRVz7psdS6/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
I also saved several meetings for additional book talks. I released books by month last year and so we'd also allow time for checking out and returning books as well as book talking and highlighting books that were being released. I also used this time to feature books that may not be on our list but were still worth reading and considering. We also held an optional medal design contest. We couldn't award a winner without a medal! So I challenged my students to create their own that highlighted their values of reading. We also had a very special guest, Elaine Fultz, come join us for a meeting. She was a member of the 2017 Newbery Selection Committee and she was able to share some of her notes and reading habits with us -- which was a fantastic way to get a glimpse into a REAL Newbery member's world!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6oac4AlhOLPzpFq4sHyGJd7tI4z3Hg9nHN-LDZ_PUBriB5q9MlXrat81Ygkl9yB31XGXPI2oJOz_5IKSVDRU-CLOj5tw1bsKPKae8ZCbL-DXhZ3ob9reF3ZKt03QBRhxaxnUwsa6G0rXR/s1600/Medal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6oac4AlhOLPzpFq4sHyGJd7tI4z3Hg9nHN-LDZ_PUBriB5q9MlXrat81Ygkl9yB31XGXPI2oJOz_5IKSVDRU-CLOj5tw1bsKPKae8ZCbL-DXhZ3ob9reF3ZKt03QBRhxaxnUwsa6G0rXR/s640/Medal.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
At our last meeting, we voted on the winner using Google Forms. We had previously (after our debate) narrowed down our choices of 18+ titles to the top five favorites. Our vote was incredibly split - showing just how many great books students read and loved. However, our ultimate winner was <u>The Wild Robot</u> by Peter Brown.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJv1qhVdRA_bUDf5qlqUxEBeHdsBDyrh-UYihhlm5GMzf41567ApUIEdZ3foww_EYz3VIjZ0MhuoiWBOoaHToVVW3KMUdctrRqCLUwCjnuJyF6BUo6UO-IWm1c5x2deYQ4TOEJcosmEK2/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="639" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJv1qhVdRA_bUDf5qlqUxEBeHdsBDyrh-UYihhlm5GMzf41567ApUIEdZ3foww_EYz3VIjZ0MhuoiWBOoaHToVVW3KMUdctrRqCLUwCjnuJyF6BUo6UO-IWm1c5x2deYQ4TOEJcosmEK2/s640/Capture.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>Who plans the meetings? Do you read any of the books as a class read aloud? </i></b>Last year, I planned all the meetings but ultimately the kids were the discussion facilitators. They lead discussions in their groups and with others and carried out the conversations. We were all equals in our discussions and thoughts. I didn't read any of the books with my students. All Mock Newbery reading was independent last year. I did read a few sections of <i>Pax</i> with all my students since it was the Global Read Aloud but I did not choose to read any of them as a whole class read aloud. I know several teachers that did read some of the books as a class so that is always an option.<br />
<br />
<b><i>When did you hold meetings? </i></b>Luckily, we have an hour of "intervention" time in our building known as FLEX time. This is a time when students get special services outside the classroom like gifted support and reading intervention. On Fridays, all students stay with their teachers for intervention or enrichment activities like Genius Hour. I was able to schedule our meetings on Fridays, so that any student that wanted to attend could come to our monthly meetings. However, I know that many other teachers held their meetings after school so that entire grade levels could get involved as well as other teachers.<br />
<br />
<i>Hopefully, you found the information you were looking for! </i><br />
<i><b>If you still have questions post them in the comments below! </b></i><br />
<br />
Happy Reading,<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-28195061195630143382017-06-02T05:00:00.000-04:002017-06-02T15:12:28.128-04:00Mock Newbery Questions Answered (Part One)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshO9f4d9Fx-tXzWaAaKFGQPgXlagl3LY4zVVaYLwE7W9T77sLI6XhS6lz_KX2Qo_7afEoRz9jgfyK_KwRBIsnkvb_DQFGNgZK8xk_zeDug1WHPvh3efawE3Yi094iPUmcHcBRGVoVTw11/s1600/Blog+Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshO9f4d9Fx-tXzWaAaKFGQPgXlagl3LY4zVVaYLwE7W9T77sLI6XhS6lz_KX2Qo_7afEoRz9jgfyK_KwRBIsnkvb_DQFGNgZK8xk_zeDug1WHPvh3efawE3Yi094iPUmcHcBRGVoVTw11/s640/Blog+Button.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Many of you are so excited to try and start your own Mock Newbery Book Club. <i>But I get, you've got questions!</i> I've been there. Without the help of other teachers, I wouldn't have had the courage to tackle a new book club (and all the reading) this past year! But, I'm here to help (<i>hopefully</i>) and give you the courage to try something new in your classroom or school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YYOo6ll2eW6g2dXrVJrGxA67ru0T9FdB05Ral1ZiHHDsvBr4d-J7IJ68MU-4K88-K5D5HOeM94vHTNcj1ROX8QCFYPRD1IMWbBKGYVDY_GrQ1-mriQ4XlilUMNNfSL8X7cGFnJ6DNtPv/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YYOo6ll2eW6g2dXrVJrGxA67ru0T9FdB05Ral1ZiHHDsvBr4d-J7IJ68MU-4K88-K5D5HOeM94vHTNcj1ROX8QCFYPRD1IMWbBKGYVDY_GrQ1-mriQ4XlilUMNNfSL8X7cGFnJ6DNtPv/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>What is Mock Newbery Book Club?</i></b> Not sure what a Mock Newbery Book Club even is -- don't worry! I've got you covered in a post I wrote as I was figuring everything out last year! Check out the past post {<a href="http://www.myshoestringlife.com/2016/07/mock-newbery-book-club.html" target="_blank">Mock Newbery Book Club</a>} to get you started! That post covers a lot of basics and gives you a lot of resources to start and visualize what a Newbery Book Club could look like for you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sBYAwXNY29I6urhv6tULkjvdj6FR3XAH6SPeRHvEflX472k2bjJotUBt0tHdbCV6KRPieP8fu7uJwYEYkYTf7JiFR9roYqPutmKXP6sQAO9IBWMMgxDFB-nC1vc8cKBVXXKhlOjTEER_/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sBYAwXNY29I6urhv6tULkjvdj6FR3XAH6SPeRHvEflX472k2bjJotUBt0tHdbCV6KRPieP8fu7uJwYEYkYTf7JiFR9roYqPutmKXP6sQAO9IBWMMgxDFB-nC1vc8cKBVXXKhlOjTEER_/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<i style="font-weight: bold;">What does Mock Newbery Book Club look like start to finish? How long does everything take? Do you continue reading after the awards in January?</i> I'm going to be honest - Mock Newbery takes some work. There is quite a bit of planning, reading, and organizing that has to happen in order for you to get the club up and running. I tend to stress out - so I <strike>probably</strike> over plan and organize all the details. However, working with other teachers and utilizing social media can really help ease the burden and stress. Everyone's timeline is going to look a little different. The Newbery Award is announced every January at the ALA Mid-Winter Conference.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsFaM9DooYCaAOWNuhqxQSwemVt3QvCMn4EiJFCaAE4asvRxdEsKUcsyLJR2xRchobv0N-lSuXHKduPch45y8cM9qcEOIeYNIYKBqj_o2yFkNLicCAwmi1dDWa69JeSbMue-5vS2JEtfX/s1600/Calendar+at+a+Glance.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsFaM9DooYCaAOWNuhqxQSwemVt3QvCMn4EiJFCaAE4asvRxdEsKUcsyLJR2xRchobv0N-lSuXHKduPch45y8cM9qcEOIeYNIYKBqj_o2yFkNLicCAwmi1dDWa69JeSbMue-5vS2JEtfX/s640/Calendar+at+a+Glance.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, I started getting ready in January for the next year's Mock Newbery. This includes reading novels published in the new year and having students give input on recently published novels as well. My goal is to have a rough list together by the end of April/May so I can prepare for funding of books and give out a summer list reading to previous book clubbers. Over the summer, I read, read, read. And then read some more to try and read as many of the titles as I can before school starts back. <i>This makes me a better book talker and helps me get the kids excited.</i><br />
<br />
By August, I have a list of books prepared for my new students and we start Mock Newbery in September. We meet September - January. We met about once or twice a month. I set up dates and passed them out to students as <a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IOp8bSRnVlo7HSbJTbkLMjqSYrmPVtiWDKGK0WAxajk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">bookmarks</a>. We then voted in January on our winner and honor books. Our last official event was watching the awards together LIVE! <i>(or sort of live if you have specials during the time of the awards! But don't worry, they record them and air them by that afternoon so that you can all watch together (sort of) LIVE!)</i> Then the book club is <i>technically</i> over. However, I do ask for reading helpers and experts, to help me read the newest books to start a list for Mock Newbery next school year. I blogged about {<a href="http://www.myshoestringlife.com/2017/03/enlisting-expert-readers.html" target="_blank">Enlisting Expert Readers</a>} in a past post if you want to learn more!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GEOsmw1PJoCnh0bNwhmC3F8kNzlJhwuU95l-F7YFf4mdKR72DwKnisENc5s4LMEi8PhvU_2yoehNIQh5asnxyvQ7_GtfKdbIVqI2YjzpFQw1wpcYKuDrhbUKAwXMONfeJM4vd-CH98rf/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GEOsmw1PJoCnh0bNwhmC3F8kNzlJhwuU95l-F7YFf4mdKR72DwKnisENc5s4LMEi8PhvU_2yoehNIQh5asnxyvQ7_GtfKdbIVqI2YjzpFQw1wpcYKuDrhbUKAwXMONfeJM4vd-CH98rf/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">How do you choose books for Mock Newbery? How many books do you choose? </i>There is no set list or number of books. You could easily choose four books or twenty-four books and it'd still be a great experience. You want students to be exposed to new, quality literature. So pick books that can start a conversation or books that have a unique point of view or style. I chose several books last year that I knew kids would LOVE. I knew they may not fit the term "distinguished" to an adult but kids would absolutely love them. Those books such as <u>The Wild Robot</u> and <u>Weekends with Max and his Dad</u> were kid favorites. I also chose books about topics I knew my students could connect with like <u>Finding Perfect.</u> There is no magical list or formula. I literally look at what others are reading and thinking about the Newbery. I also look at star reviews and try and pay attention to the National Book Award as well. The blog <a href="http://blogs.slj.com/heavymedal/" target="_blank">Heavy Medal</a> has also really helped me get ideas for books and what to read.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>How do I ultimately narrow down my list and pick books? </i>I read. I read a lot. This year, I'm still reading but I also relied on friends on Twitter as well as the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/107055.2018_Mock_Newbery_" target="_blank">Goodreads Mock Newbery Shelf</a> and book discussion group. I also choose books by authors I admire and I know are great at connecting with readers. I've also chosen books that are already released so I could start reading and ordering books NOW. I can always add titles later or give book talks on other great contenders as books are released. Here's my <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/152BnlQUNFau_wFTdxnTfFXclJkq3cmUb6QUtbOh313Y/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Mock Newbery List</a> (as of now) for 2018.<br />
<br />
Lastly before I set my list, I need to make sure books are appropriate. Just because everyone is raving about a certain title, doesn't mean it was meant for fifth graders. So, I ask friends and also try and do some reading on my own. For this current year, my goal is to connect our Mock Newbery with the <a href="http://read.macmillan.com/mcpg/reading-without-walls/" target="_blank">Reading Without Walls Challenge</a> so I also tried to find more diverse authors, titles, and genres for my students to explore. I tried to be really intentional about the books I chose. Most recommendations were from friends on Twitter and Goodreads.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Here's a peek at my reading list for 2018... </b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtxVNL1IYKRxNF1Awi8_UiyR9suTuCFzntshn_BsPp9fx8uk4aXmGtmCXJcGfw5Thb83fXZNJ57zI0wJ0BSsKk-6ltQZMtHDwAFlGyo0hg3OvtwihQn9sRABUtBBu29vPZa1NKEgmfypD/s1600/Sneak+Peak.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtxVNL1IYKRxNF1Awi8_UiyR9suTuCFzntshn_BsPp9fx8uk4aXmGtmCXJcGfw5Thb83fXZNJ57zI0wJ0BSsKk-6ltQZMtHDwAFlGyo0hg3OvtwihQn9sRABUtBBu29vPZa1NKEgmfypD/s640/Sneak+Peak.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxngNw6UXYfrKl8g__ABwbm5oKS5_lz6e5Pd_sIBiSL-fCn36zi2vDRZXd7qg7uRLTFT0Rewxej4T5uitmctQdZ-VCFZ2q6IaMcJGHtOBdm7OrkbiKsaEIv6Se2XX2SmUoM8oLD6068oZ4/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="672" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxngNw6UXYfrKl8g__ABwbm5oKS5_lz6e5Pd_sIBiSL-fCn36zi2vDRZXd7qg7uRLTFT0Rewxej4T5uitmctQdZ-VCFZ2q6IaMcJGHtOBdm7OrkbiKsaEIv6Se2XX2SmUoM8oLD6068oZ4/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>How do you buy the books? Do kids purchase books? Do you check them out from the library?</i></b> Buying brand new books is <i><b>NOT</b></i> cheap. Therefore some thought and planning does need to go into how you will raise the money to buy the books. A stocked book club could run you about $500 - $700 if you're looking for 2 - 4 copies of each book so that it can be an actual reading club. Last year, I submitted a Donors Choose for all of my book club novels. I did add <i>The Girl that Drank the Moon</i> and <i>Gertie's Leap to Greatness</i> and bought two copies of each with my own money. This year, I was able to get a grant for $500 dollars through my school to fund nearly all the titles on my list. I've also won several ARCs on Twitter giveaways (<i>A Rambler Steals Home, The Someday Birds, and The Ethan I was Before</i>) which give me some extra copies too.<br />
<br />
For my remaining titles (<i>books not yet released</i>), I'm going to either write a Donors Choose or set up an Amazon Wishlist for friends, parents, etc. to buy to help support our book club. I'm also hoping that since many of my choices were books published in January/February our local library will have some extra copies come fall. Last year, I was also able to get some audio book copies of <i>The Key to Extraordinary </i>and <i>Pax</i> which also gave access to more readers as they could listen to the books with headphone splitters in the classroom. <b>Teacher Tip:</b> If you're willing to invest some of your own money, check out Half Price Books, Barnes and Noble Market Place, eBay or Thriftbooks for cheaper copies of "older" releases. Often, you can find gently used copies for nearly half the price!<br />
<br />
I have never asked kids or parents to purchase books. However, I did have several parents buy books for their kids after reading our Open House letter because the kids were excited to be part of the Mock Newbery Book Club. Many of those students then let other students read their copies once they were finished.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Stay tuned for Part Two tomorrow... </i></b><br />
I'll tackle some questions about checking out books and what to do during meetings!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uPBeNqLRnSNvkoeYmhuIxWWH4C6YapJ_1t9HekBOPoieb-vX3Bc80sn733HCXZEY63hXyCQxc37tyzpDZ0xcpKbcjxT_NZdHyX7UP9xCiceWLkayKdksg6rJnaH2n9Bp1TnKDYLjTZt9/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="107" data-original-width="364" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uPBeNqLRnSNvkoeYmhuIxWWH4C6YapJ_1t9HekBOPoieb-vX3Bc80sn733HCXZEY63hXyCQxc37tyzpDZ0xcpKbcjxT_NZdHyX7UP9xCiceWLkayKdksg6rJnaH2n9Bp1TnKDYLjTZt9/s400/Signature.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-83033517063860146882017-05-24T17:43:00.001-04:002017-05-24T17:43:02.182-04:00A Teacher's WishThis year there seemed to be a common theme in several of the novels we read together - wishing. We analyzed our characaters' wishes and learned: <i>Wishing helps you hope. Wishing doesn't make things come true. Wishing things for others shows you care about them.</i> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTdXKLr-U6aDpCkk66Ys6cTTR7h5sBjt0PA-LmJAKK8dZiN6JWHpo0MCiakmGTuaLTbtTx8JVkR9u1qz-DFCKRdqKCJ3RN-_3ED92pmSUGkeXB5mLbZFhBLlVB6llpQb8oeM5vMdZJdb6/s1600/Presentation2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTdXKLr-U6aDpCkk66Ys6cTTR7h5sBjt0PA-LmJAKK8dZiN6JWHpo0MCiakmGTuaLTbtTx8JVkR9u1qz-DFCKRdqKCJ3RN-_3ED92pmSUGkeXB5mLbZFhBLlVB6llpQb8oeM5vMdZJdb6/s640/Presentation2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As we read our last read aloud, <i><b>I Wish You More</b></i>, together as a team, I began to think about my wishes for my students. Many of my wishes are for the future of my students as many I will not see again for several years if ever again. I want them to have new teachers and experiences that challenge and change them. I hope that some of my wishing on acorns, stars, and flowers will bring my students some good luck in the future.<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>A Teacher's Wish</i></b><br />
<br />
<b>To my students</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish you more</b><br />
<b>good days than bad.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish you more magic</b><br />
<b>and mischief</b><br />
<b>than repetition.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish you more stories</b><br />
<b>and love and laughter</b><br />
<b>than the boredom of being</b><br />
<b>alone.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish you more challenges</b><br />
<b>than easy answers. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish you more books</b><br />
<b>than I could ever buy.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I wish for you to stay</b><br />
<b>readers, creators, and believers</b><br />
<b>no matter how old. </b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-77168512824523192292017-05-23T20:05:00.001-04:002017-05-24T17:13:15.401-04:00Celebrating Our Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5drfo5ort3M-o1ZB6V7HdkjDyKChtD1ozjYFcEBdNv-No5_TYXReK5sZHw1DuxcsFOASJRnXnAic25Kpjt7TtWYgR4Z4b8gNMY3dkRFDjm8XDW1MX1Q1E0e99kcGk71ZR8iqt5e-pB5hm/s1600/Presentation1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5drfo5ort3M-o1ZB6V7HdkjDyKChtD1ozjYFcEBdNv-No5_TYXReK5sZHw1DuxcsFOASJRnXnAic25Kpjt7TtWYgR4Z4b8gNMY3dkRFDjm8XDW1MX1Q1E0e99kcGk71ZR8iqt5e-pB5hm/s640/Presentation1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As the end of the year starts to feel more real, it's important to stop and celebrate all the good that's happened in the year. I know it can be hard with parties and stir crazy students, but it feels amazing to stop and reflect on all the great things happening that just feel routine at this point.<br />
<br />
Something, really important in my room is celebrating our reading successes. The initial idea came from Donalyn Miller's <u>Reading in the Wild</u>. We didn't compare goals because we're all different readers. For some a HUGE reading success was reading 10 books this year, for others it was reading 79, 87 or even 104 books. <i><b>We counted any books they wanted.</b></i> Some students included picture books as well as novels - other kids wanted their count to be strictly novels. I told them that <b><i>all reading is valuable and worth celebrating</i></b> - so we did just that.<br />
<br />
We took 20 minutes of class time and made our awards <i>(I made one too! I read 61 books this school year)</i> and then we went outside to capture this memory! If I've done my math correctly, we've read over 2,000 books this year! The best part for me is that you can't pick out my students that told me they were <i><b>non-readers</b></i> at the beginning of the year - <b><i>because they are all readers now</i></b>. Thanks impart to a growing classroom library, Mock Newbery book club and some of my at-times-relentless-crazy book loving nature.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZo310IL0kfBxSRSNXmG8ITx6MHBImweE-EznRGBdQ3U9-N75ZY58ycbh0dOclGWUMJHzeubjx-BOt3__skT0xkw2BBF3gxowfy8YWIqPESQDpX1ahPaaBjrn0_Ntl2VXSnqFr-7D9ncTj/s1600/IMG_1548+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZo310IL0kfBxSRSNXmG8ITx6MHBImweE-EznRGBdQ3U9-N75ZY58ycbh0dOclGWUMJHzeubjx-BOt3__skT0xkw2BBF3gxowfy8YWIqPESQDpX1ahPaaBjrn0_Ntl2VXSnqFr-7D9ncTj/s640/IMG_1548+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JrXkBYsSbWu2If-ExsrwBcMYH91j1J_pgxaT4F2tgCGkwJzPbmtfv5XNuMzLltf2XzFwOqSnn2qv-d7SrONpPhMKpuI8V9gzAKvmhMfhVoD8sZRi9gGsUWYCBEOpXhn07wMxcIKabZGF/s1600/IMG_1554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JrXkBYsSbWu2If-ExsrwBcMYH91j1J_pgxaT4F2tgCGkwJzPbmtfv5XNuMzLltf2XzFwOqSnn2qv-d7SrONpPhMKpuI8V9gzAKvmhMfhVoD8sZRi9gGsUWYCBEOpXhn07wMxcIKabZGF/s640/IMG_1554.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll print these as 8x10s and hang them in my classroom next year. I really wish I had started this tradition 11 years earlier. Hopefully, it will become a new tradition of readers celebrating and looking up to other readers. We also had sixth very dedicated readers complete the 40 Book Challenge and step outside their reading comfort zones this year. #BucketFilled<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVxVT0mp9d7LjZ-hvvhShF0-vlFsbf47zcdpgxpoG-LE9GiQljST1GhTrCldbg9v1JZoGsvxt0EnCdm0RwdKLb5QUuTpqmD0qTA1-Ru5p0CU7Hz0i9_3ZS43_dcymRdx_DPFAYRuRd6-M/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVxVT0mp9d7LjZ-hvvhShF0-vlFsbf47zcdpgxpoG-LE9GiQljST1GhTrCldbg9v1JZoGsvxt0EnCdm0RwdKLb5QUuTpqmD0qTA1-Ru5p0CU7Hz0i9_3ZS43_dcymRdx_DPFAYRuRd6-M/s640/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1xOPaEsMQg_VBGUgHzC_DDISsOgpbHFokwkVZG-CebqYAcvSodcAM7tBPE5HIGTpx8NqKR8wqSAIu1J-V4he0pjB6ExuGhgvTyS9zvzwMzumuZhZ3RjPHsR8OZQ6A7S2d2UYQcxXvBs0/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1xOPaEsMQg_VBGUgHzC_DDISsOgpbHFokwkVZG-CebqYAcvSodcAM7tBPE5HIGTpx8NqKR8wqSAIu1J-V4he0pjB6ExuGhgvTyS9zvzwMzumuZhZ3RjPHsR8OZQ6A7S2d2UYQcxXvBs0/s640/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We also wrote Farewell Letters today. Each student wrote a reflection to his/her homeroom teacher. They could reflect on the year, their favorites/not so favorites, and even share their summer plans. These letters were truly heartfelt and amidst the crazy of our party today, it made me realize just how much I'll miss this group of students.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-61865174694402491992017-05-08T20:37:00.003-04:002017-05-08T20:47:41.332-04:00Life Without a Teacher DeskI know there are only thirteen more days of school but I've been wrestling with an idea all year... <i>Can I live without my teacher desk? </i>Several teachers I know have already #ditchedthedesk this year and haven't stop raving about the space and flexibility it provided. <i>I wanted those things too.</i> But I still wanted my own space in my classroom. I don't sit at my desk very much but I felt like I needed a place to enter grades, check over work and keep my supplies. I'll admit, I was way too scared at the beginning of the year to take the leap.<br />
<br />
My teacher desk was big and spacious and made me feel like a teacher... Plus, it was my space.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9hLDMRWBQtnFeHvEQaUT_eClI6WcXHFdtc28WSUmIknzFEt3nZrgTWiZtsVz-6x4fjQVqTs6FC3tmBGgVPmm0YduEoWFiJNLV3FVitEEKjIzvq-1LvS6vA_Hxr1L4e66F5E-ZBw5-CN_/s1600/IMG_1308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9hLDMRWBQtnFeHvEQaUT_eClI6WcXHFdtc28WSUmIknzFEt3nZrgTWiZtsVz-6x4fjQVqTs6FC3tmBGgVPmm0YduEoWFiJNLV3FVitEEKjIzvq-1LvS6vA_Hxr1L4e66F5E-ZBw5-CN_/s640/IMG_1308.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But alas, last Friday, with only 14 days left of school, I decided to try living life without a desk for just a few days. It would be a trial run. Just a few days to see if I really could completely ditch the desk. I knew I wouldn't have to officially give up my desk (since it can easily roll out into the hallway) and I could see if I could <i>really</i> live the desk free life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPqKiVRPEu1EQsHGPTiPmv0FQ0i2UVATynyLRARpg7_5K4RtdEYMEaMe78laHKCYoBnT823wTA-1PTtNlBs1OFtv5OAF7ItoBaxK_bCMWTsQM5DA4zQTqFqNAjdcGfhuIZUp6lEkk07R4/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPqKiVRPEu1EQsHGPTiPmv0FQ0i2UVATynyLRARpg7_5K4RtdEYMEaMe78laHKCYoBnT823wTA-1PTtNlBs1OFtv5OAF7ItoBaxK_bCMWTsQM5DA4zQTqFqNAjdcGfhuIZUp6lEkk07R4/s640/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Today was my first full day of being desk free. And I realize -- I have space. <i>Glorious much needed floor space!</i> Students commented about being about to stretch out more and we weren't all on top of each other or the massive furniture. My room has so many possibilities by moving Big Bertha to the hallway. I have room for some small end tables or more seating in the library along with room for two more book shelves! once I'm not sure how I'm going to quite utilize the new found space just yet, but I get myself organized, I'll start making some plans. I can't wait to see how one small change will impact my classroom environment. For now, my home base as I'm calling it is at my small group kidney table. I still have a access to all my supplies and have a space for myself in the classroom. I really wish I would have had the courage sooner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCi9belg6d4i9G3gsLM-dJEwa3QT9DXEckBgPw-dGfL3jdxGSAsINfRvC97d_DYi-pkevC6FVaFyM4uTT8TpqYk1tszI3n96mj4mfhy0E5iTKHro4TqOuaHL_Od_UL9y7Y-vAYrbAZn67/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCi9belg6d4i9G3gsLM-dJEwa3QT9DXEckBgPw-dGfL3jdxGSAsINfRvC97d_DYi-pkevC6FVaFyM4uTT8TpqYk1tszI3n96mj4mfhy0E5iTKHro4TqOuaHL_Od_UL9y7Y-vAYrbAZn67/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If the notion of getting rid of your desk is even tickling your teacher brain, try it. <i>Do it</i>. It may not work out - and that's okay. But it's so worth giving it a try. I'm not sure why this little change was so hard but I'm glad the desk is ditched.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-18360295016204571302017-04-17T05:30:00.000-04:002017-04-17T05:30:02.862-04:00#IMWAYR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IMWAYR?src=hash" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCLRQ42USk6S1RiMI98SoFcvIE3je1iUHSfAIXct43npNSISceGiNGlqIMA_QrNdwxaoqUYWzaKaPZ5c-tNJkQs7NWcBkd6GSLBnHkTgosMcDh6_XYfXqF7RZtD79JGkGw5QI2HE4xb3p/s320/IMWAYR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>It's Monday! What are you Reading?</i></b></div>
<br />
I've been feeling the reading slump lately. I currently don't even have an audiobook which is very uncommon for me. I've been listening to A LOT of podcasts and trying to get myself organized during this end of the year push. Between writing a grant application and trying to get a lists of materials ready for Mock Newbery, I think I'm just feeling restless. Sometimes, you just need the right book at the right time. I think it's important to share these natural breaks in reading with our students. If you're not feeling it - you're not feeling it. It happens even to the most dedicated of readers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao0nC0kusjES-OCsntt1tyx4i_yCR-birDtVcUpC8S4WGWDs89Zqq00UuqZz2cpZBSKUk1e3dbOGlKGDJjDj5iU5du1MDA5xlnlPSsnd9kLuBUE9Sco81RZCW0JYeXpAJOUUplr2SvYG3/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao0nC0kusjES-OCsntt1tyx4i_yCR-birDtVcUpC8S4WGWDs89Zqq00UuqZz2cpZBSKUk1e3dbOGlKGDJjDj5iU5du1MDA5xlnlPSsnd9kLuBUE9Sco81RZCW0JYeXpAJOUUplr2SvYG3/s400/Slide1.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="640" src="http://images.gr-assets.com/books/1475593003l/32319718.jpg" width="421" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you enjoyed, <i>The Distance to Home</i>, you'll definitely want to check out Jenn Bishop's newest novel, <i>14 Hollow Road</i>. This book centers around Maddie, who is trying to find her place as a soon to be seventh grader. She's a very real character that many girls will be identify with as she struggles with friendships and her first crush. To complicate matters, a tornado has hit Maddie's hometown and she's focused to deal with life at a neighbors and the disappearance of her beloved dog, Hank. As someone who experienced a tornado my freshmen year of high school, Maddie's experience brought back memories of seeing the devastation and having so many friends displaced for months. <b><i>Look for Jenn's book out June 13th!</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for The Legend of Rock papers" height="640" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51SgWZqf3hL._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="556" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you haven't seen this book on social media, you may need to reconsider who you follow! Seriously, this book has been blowing up on Instagram and Twitter. So, when Target had this title on Cartwheel - I was there! One of my absolute favorite picture books of the year! You'll be laughing as Rock, Paper, and Scissors do battle against household objects including dinosaur shaped nuggets! Laugh out loud funny and the perfect read aloud for ANY day!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for Pirasaurs!" height="640" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5dd375_db1139a503504a60b93b3c6bd0e960e7.jpg_srz_328_328_85_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Josh Funk is a picture book genius! I was singing this book aloud as I read it at home to myself before taking it into my fifth graders. From swabbing the deck to searching for buried treasure it's a pirasaurs life on the high seas. This book is filled with wonderful rhythms that'll make you want to sing this book aloud! Lots of fun word plays make this a great addition to any upper elementary classroom. <i>We're Pirasaurs, Pirasaurs with spiky tails we'll raise the sails and we are never bored! </i>Google the trailer, you'll have the song in your head all day! If you don't know much about Josh or <i>Pirasaurs</i> check out the {<a href="https://youtu.be/lwaeDJDZsvE" target="_blank">Book Trailer</a>} and it's guaranteed to be the best minute of your day!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_mR1rCd2k5gZ1ZeRFAHUyYYpH7phr3MY4ErQmlFhYWnPZsRuZwG1CSmzU48Sot4kE1sOk2gxmD1hX0lUbZ03drgVJtgxTAc_ZHai6BBd9_5bLPO-OBI8aTHQFoXnkQJqmUspbWqR4PhV/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_mR1rCd2k5gZ1ZeRFAHUyYYpH7phr3MY4ErQmlFhYWnPZsRuZwG1CSmzU48Sot4kE1sOk2gxmD1hX0lUbZ03drgVJtgxTAc_ZHai6BBd9_5bLPO-OBI8aTHQFoXnkQJqmUspbWqR4PhV/s400/Slide2.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for Children of Refuge" height="640" src="http://d28hgpri8am2if.cloudfront.net/book_images/onix/cvr9781442450066/children-of-refuge-9781442450066_hr.jpg" width="424" /></div>
<br />
I could absolutely NOT put <i>The Children of Exile</i> down! <b>#Unputdownable</b> So, needless to say, I was <i>very</i> excited to get to read an ARC of sequel, <i>The Children of Refuge.</i> Refuge follows Edwy's journey from after he and Rosi split up in the woods. I'm enjoying the difference in perspective and voice and it really showcases Haddix's craft as an author. I'm hoping to settle into this book and give it the time it deserves this upcoming week! So far, the cliffhangers are on point! Haddix is the queen of the cliffhanger! <b><i>Look for The Children of Refuge out September 12th! </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-79957100185427241162017-04-04T05:00:00.000-04:002017-04-04T05:00:45.162-04:00Grand Slam Books! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACicDElR3u5SQo00PB_WpiVBlIiMJiOcip5VQdhCQ3HWqJimPr6vuY38ZFdM9Jb59SAzFAac_47QEsTPFAL3mJE2zBfMWyi9ns3cDi-5Eos1RkVFcxyn0_9thEyxHvKOWaYEJyN8m7jaP/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACicDElR3u5SQo00PB_WpiVBlIiMJiOcip5VQdhCQ3HWqJimPr6vuY38ZFdM9Jb59SAzFAac_47QEsTPFAL3mJE2zBfMWyi9ns3cDi-5Eos1RkVFcxyn0_9thEyxHvKOWaYEJyN8m7jaP/s400/Slide2.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're from Cincinnati, then you know that Opening Day is a true holiday! Even though, I had to go into work, students and teachers alike were decked out in their Reds gear to help celebrate Opening Day. There is even an extensive parade - baseball is a <b>BIG</b> deal. Whether you're from Cincinnati or not, here's a few grand slams that middle grade readers may enjoy! I'll confess that I'm not a big reader of <i>sports</i> <i>books,</i> but I try and keep up with new books and authors since they hook so many readers! Bust out those peanuts and Cracker Jacks and let's "<i>Play Ball!</i>"<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Running Favorites in Fifth</u></h3>
<div>
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpTKnnA2bnX7xRZyY5yOuYBZl30qz7tQI_TF9XjTBWJHgpT3uNn1hU0hHKiQslldRuGQtNFXo2tqKXRkxmy487OjlQwbOFgF6jr2vshXtdq5CjTAZkaf-hNkd7nE_Ega9U4x1_hbSur8A/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpTKnnA2bnX7xRZyY5yOuYBZl30qz7tQI_TF9XjTBWJHgpT3uNn1hU0hHKiQslldRuGQtNFXo2tqKXRkxmy487OjlQwbOFgF6jr2vshXtdq5CjTAZkaf-hNkd7nE_Ega9U4x1_hbSur8A/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Distance-Home-Jenn-Bishop/dp/1101938714/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271299&sr=8-1&keywords=THe+Distance+to+Home" target="_blank">The Distance to Home</a> by Jenn Bishop<br /><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Skinnybones-Barbara-Park/dp/067988792X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271311&sr=8-1&keywords=Skinny+Bones" target="_blank">Skinny Bones</a> by Barbara Park<br /><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heat-Mike-Lupica/dp/0142407577/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271321&sr=8-1&keywords=Heat+Mike+Lupica" target="_blank">Heat</a> by Mike Lupica<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPkMwTsoZh2OM3TkutlpksT9kbPAhIoLq5m5BIbmuwHDfEh2Z5P1oyIsR3gdKdstKDxzMq30F2VCHnRfeckkOHlnSCs3kDMn5mz7v9-uT8CLDCKd3Vy6iUCzr3gC5uwNMl7X8HNlUvdX2/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPkMwTsoZh2OM3TkutlpksT9kbPAhIoLq5m5BIbmuwHDfEh2Z5P1oyIsR3gdKdstKDxzMq30F2VCHnRfeckkOHlnSCs3kDMn5mz7v9-uT8CLDCKd3Vy6iUCzr3gC5uwNMl7X8HNlUvdX2/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jackie-Me-Baseball-Card-Adventures/dp/0380800845/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491271472&sr=1-1&keywords=Jackie+and+Me" target="_blank">Jackie and Me</a> by Dan Gutman<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Water-Everywhere-Sluggers-Loren-Long/dp/1416918906/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491271449&sr=1-1&keywords=Sluggers+phil+bildner" target="_blank">Sluggers Series</a> by Loren Long & Phil Bildner<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pitch-Sports-Illustrated-Graphic-Novels/dp/1434230732/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271493&sr=8-1&keywords=Wild+Pitch+Sports+Illustrated" target="_blank">Wild Pitch</a> <i>Sports Illustrated for Kids</i> Graphic Novel<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Sports of All Sorts</u></h3>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVA4jucpbUusMrU6BY9-0syHp-ZBJEgOIaXGn8uotLTecGsesExvbJjPtWMAppJ0XscP9N3eDVIjKouWoceD5Ipu9mGHoP4YyZzRjQytdRinwLhLeaouhEZ8SeJpp8p5SHJ0HH1dZp_J2Q/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVA4jucpbUusMrU6BY9-0syHp-ZBJEgOIaXGn8uotLTecGsesExvbJjPtWMAppJ0XscP9N3eDVIjKouWoceD5Ipu9mGHoP4YyZzRjQytdRinwLhLeaouhEZ8SeJpp8p5SHJ0HH1dZp_J2Q/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Crossover-Kwame-Alexander/dp/0544107713/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271521&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Crossover" target="_blank">The Crossover</a> & <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Booked-Kwame-Alexander/dp/0544570987/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491271524&sr=1-1&keywords=Booked" target="_blank">Booked</a> by Kwame Alexander<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkVDqTq2KYuv4ZIZiMLVWfsKwyvxzaGk40ecCwesOX-QZ7K_ameU6Vu22hp9HCxsWbB0CgrATBw_hNb3qLauGgZBhl_AhvgZPVarmtCedibyzLwx_j5r9z31XxMhhohHt82WEmQNGYpoY/s1600/Slide4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkVDqTq2KYuv4ZIZiMLVWfsKwyvxzaGk40ecCwesOX-QZ7K_ameU6Vu22hp9HCxsWbB0CgrATBw_hNb3qLauGgZBhl_AhvgZPVarmtCedibyzLwx_j5r9z31XxMhhohHt82WEmQNGYpoY/s640/Slide4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/STAT-Standing-Tall-Talented-Court/dp/0545387590/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271653&sr=8-1&keywords=Standing+Tall+and+talented" target="_blank">STAT: Standing Tall and Talented </a>series by Amar'e Stoudemire<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYdiUY8DKAGc4y5rX150G2uqcp5JkH-lp5nFnnKIHmzI9vfnQes1_IqhuOGXwenydouXFg3Z9Zq77VLMUkZfHMDjcskwn9tta9LkjbM8StbfO9ovAN0SUnobiRg_HhyphenhyphenkfISY_CoU8mus7/s1600/Slide5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYdiUY8DKAGc4y5rX150G2uqcp5JkH-lp5nFnnKIHmzI9vfnQes1_IqhuOGXwenydouXFg3Z9Zq77VLMUkZfHMDjcskwn9tta9LkjbM8StbfO9ovAN0SUnobiRg_HhyphenhyphenkfISY_CoU8mus7/s640/Slide5.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Whole-New-Ballgame-Rip-Book/dp/1250079764/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491271614&sr=1-2&keywords=Rip+and+Red" target="_blank">Rip and Red</a> series by Phil Bildner<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9pOWsI0KPeZnZI_XA5z0piWVN-VAf5cpq-QH2DwmEEXlvDFRTiLNwSmFerZs1nBs7PXrdPr9pToUq9Cmvfp6MUAwcYzU-gxkAUwjSsxfdb3UH0d9hq7o2NlJYWNho__Rut35soQ-rWa_/s1600/Slide6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9pOWsI0KPeZnZI_XA5z0piWVN-VAf5cpq-QH2DwmEEXlvDFRTiLNwSmFerZs1nBs7PXrdPr9pToUq9Cmvfp6MUAwcYzU-gxkAUwjSsxfdb3UH0d9hq7o2NlJYWNho__Rut35soQ-rWa_/s640/Slide6.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Guys-Read-Sports-Jon-Scieszka/dp/0061963771/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271696&sr=8-1&keywords=Guys+Read+Sports+Pages" target="_blank">Guys Read: The Sports Pages</a><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kid-Owner-Tim-Green/dp/006229380X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491271718&sr=1-1&keywords=Kid+Owner" target="_blank">Kid Owner</a><i> </i>by Tim Green<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Doesnt-Skate-Gordon-Korman/dp/0545289254/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491271748&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Chickens+Don%27t+Skate" target="_blank">Chickens Don't Skate</a> by Gordon Korman<br />
<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>What sport novels are all-stars in your classroom?</i></b><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-56972071006102804782017-04-01T05:00:00.000-04:002017-04-01T05:00:01.606-04:00For Those About to Mock<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQNVjn4WsMqs0p7hBMhwpOYeWm9NTyCHS_l3E-QV1I0Gp0Y6HiNxRGNby5jWSEok839k2bbY3VK6wXGFksSj32bMa4zE7HoaNNvmKY22aPyXQb8Ds4dRHS6Y_LmRLwyM-ok3tuUm684IIf/s1600/Button+2018.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQNVjn4WsMqs0p7hBMhwpOYeWm9NTyCHS_l3E-QV1I0Gp0Y6HiNxRGNby5jWSEok839k2bbY3VK6wXGFksSj32bMa4zE7HoaNNvmKY22aPyXQb8Ds4dRHS6Y_LmRLwyM-ok3tuUm684IIf/s400/Button+2018.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's not to early to get started planning for Mock Newbery 2018. I'm a planner and with the need to create a Donors Choose - I've been trying to be proactive with getting a book list together for Mock Newbery 2018. To prepare, I've been watching the #MockNewbery hashtag on Twitter as well as trying to keep up with 2017 #kidlit releases. I've read several books so far and have a list of other <i>buzz worthy</i> books and authors. Here are a few books that I feel should be on your radar (as of now) if you're thinking of starting a Mock Newbery Book Club.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u>Books to Keep on Your Radar: </u></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6tvzv0os-Az5WCOytixDCn47kHCyafG24O8TNujUgc-bN8BjQwFPe7Oj4jk_Vau1lwoXI2ic5nzCMoa0I39o89rkqLcoqJXbNcidJA8_FJ3FiIK-2_v-oLIQLPHlnqt1EepI-ELNoUaA/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6tvzv0os-Az5WCOytixDCn47kHCyafG24O8TNujUgc-bN8BjQwFPe7Oj4jk_Vau1lwoXI2ic5nzCMoa0I39o89rkqLcoqJXbNcidJA8_FJ3FiIK-2_v-oLIQLPHlnqt1EepI-ELNoUaA/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHmXqVy4Whqv5T7885mpawI9UxqWqgHscSkhcAayd8w7HvyyNuFPpH0DnhW-V4KKKODdUItOFwz8j_Z_uiKSvHkKIFMhib99axAcejuA5VOcGNAmwEI5D_xCKUkm95v_v7DHb6NQg1KjC/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHmXqVy4Whqv5T7885mpawI9UxqWqgHscSkhcAayd8w7HvyyNuFPpH0DnhW-V4KKKODdUItOFwz8j_Z_uiKSvHkKIFMhib99axAcejuA5VOcGNAmwEI5D_xCKUkm95v_v7DHb6NQg1KjC/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABmWfzPLpUx-_HBegIPEQoz2Z08SfXAmbABfoci2iN4lRSnjGKLZ181BbTEk30H2gEyBJid98DneMHSLuDWug4JQ9P29NyTle0IYilkd3tgpzgPk_shjOMfyPvVRi_knY3Zr6yDiK5z0v/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABmWfzPLpUx-_HBegIPEQoz2Z08SfXAmbABfoci2iN4lRSnjGKLZ181BbTEk30H2gEyBJid98DneMHSLuDWug4JQ9P29NyTle0IYilkd3tgpzgPk_shjOMfyPvVRi_knY3Zr6yDiK5z0v/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
Several books have already been released and a few others are coming out before the end of the school year. For the Newbery Award, the committee is looking for distinguished texts based on craft, story, characters, etc. Each of these books has a <i><b>distinguished</b></i> quality from style choices to characters, which I feel would make them good Mock candidates. I've also enlisted several students to help me this year read and review books for my next year's book club. So far, our top pick is <u>The Ethan I was Before</u> for it's unique story lines and perspective. Another top contender is <u>The Someday Birds</u>, which is getting a lot of praise from my fifth grade readers. <br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<u><br /></u></h3>
<h3>
<u>Release Dates:</u> </h3>
<ul>
<li>Beyond the Bright Sea - May 2nd</li>
<li>Moon Shadow - May 16th</li>
<li>Orphan Island - May 30th</li>
<li>Walking with Miss Millie - July 4th</li>
</ul>
<br />
If you're looking for ways to get started you can check out my previous post <a href="http://www.myshoestringlife.com/2016/07/mock-newbery-book-club.html" target="_blank">Mock Newbery Book Club</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><i>What books are you currently considering for Mock Newbery? </i></b><br />
<b><i>What needs to be added to my watch-list?</i></b><br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3757751352060495468.post-46600104848066762382017-03-13T20:51:00.004-04:002017-03-14T20:23:51.196-04:00It's Monday, What Are You Reading?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKcpf1BTlWngLtevcMFcPH5fvA5U5zjKJQN9JMZTk79grRYILoW0idyhRCOv8zgwKC63MXrEzmJ-4lrsqY49GJy-SpYgmL3nfX7-05f6quKjzBBEqd9nSsepxqPcOz1I97CWeO9dMjCh3/s1600/IMWAYR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKcpf1BTlWngLtevcMFcPH5fvA5U5zjKJQN9JMZTk79grRYILoW0idyhRCOv8zgwKC63MXrEzmJ-4lrsqY49GJy-SpYgmL3nfX7-05f6quKjzBBEqd9nSsepxqPcOz1I97CWeO9dMjCh3/s400/IMWAYR.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's Monday and I've actually been in a good reading groove this week. It also helps when you're reading some amazing books! <b><i>Here are the books, I've been reading this past week! </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<br />
<h3>
Picture Books</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxFypP68zxAw2DcNMCUSLEHnN-pj3fYPb8B5AnGkxdqGom8jfxDtw7rr0SHKyb_s8UaZTbDpukb-0ZmQ7HJEI1EC_G_LDTN3NzEkOIYwaVEo8rnGgjL1F-XZUJ9DZFkZprtFEdU2zzPPF/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxFypP68zxAw2DcNMCUSLEHnN-pj3fYPb8B5AnGkxdqGom8jfxDtw7rr0SHKyb_s8UaZTbDpukb-0ZmQ7HJEI1EC_G_LDTN3NzEkOIYwaVEo8rnGgjL1F-XZUJ9DZFkZprtFEdU2zzPPF/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Until recently, I did not have any Jason Chin books in my library. <i><b>Gasp! </b></i>What? I know. He's so talented and I've admired his books for a while. So, when I saw Amazon list <i>Gravity</i> for $6.99. I knew I had to pick up <i>Gravity</i> and <i>Grand Canyon</i>. Both books have stellar pictures. I was hoping for a little more "story" or information in <i>Gravity</i> but I loved all the cool science facts about gravity at the end of the book. I know my fifth graders, who are currently studying space, will snatch this book up instantly tomorrow.<br />
<br />
I was, however, absolutely blown away by <i>Grand Canyon</i>. I wasn't sure if a picture book could do the Grand Canyon justice and Jason Chin proved me wrong. The images are grand and breath-taking plus it is loaded, loaded, loaded with facts! I learned so much about fossils and rock formations thanks to Jason's handy illustrations and hidden cutaways. This book is worth every penny especially if you also teach Social Studies or regions of the country. I highly recommend <i>Grand Canyon</i> for upper elementary classroom libraries.<br />
<h3>
<br />Middle Grade</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA4ZDvEvYPQZbfwXfTHcBS_5YR3DvHheIb45kUQFJkEjlqbe5cJCNsn-ufSDfdaaMYiz6jNz_fK6HCKpVgNqkI6Otmd9p4h6wTj_Q1i3mFGHSDNGSe9htr2fDyZXuYwQEVXe4_2DXfTXr/s1600/Slide2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA4ZDvEvYPQZbfwXfTHcBS_5YR3DvHheIb45kUQFJkEjlqbe5cJCNsn-ufSDfdaaMYiz6jNz_fK6HCKpVgNqkI6Otmd9p4h6wTj_Q1i3mFGHSDNGSe9htr2fDyZXuYwQEVXe4_2DXfTXr/s640/Slide2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
I love Augusta Scattergood's historical fiction. Her books are so accessible to kids and are perfect for kids that may think they "don't like" historical fiction. Currently, many of my students are reading <i>Making Friends with Billy Wong</i> and <i>Glory Be</i> in our historical fiction book clubs. Because they've loved those stories so much, I picked up another novel by Augusta Scattergood. I recently finished the audiobook of <i>The Way to Stay in Destiny</i> and was once again impressed by Scattergood's talent at weaving in believable and interesting characters into historical time periods. From a local tomboy who rather play softball than dance to a young boy who sneaks down to play the piano, this book does a great job at showing students that there are no such things as boy or girl hobbies. Students do not need a lot of historical background before reading which is great for students that may want to do additional research on this time period. I'd recommend for grades 4 and up.<br />
<br />
I'm now currently reading <i>See You in the Cosmos</i> as a potential #MockNewbery list. It has shown up here and there on Twitter and Travis Jonker featured it as a potential <a href="http://100scopenotes.com/2017/03/06/your-2018-newberycaldecott-hey-keep-an-eye-out-lists/?utm_content=buffer6d950&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">2018 Newbery</a> on 100 Scope Notes. With such endorsement, I bought a copy and I'm giving it a shot. I don't know much about science (history or science) and I'm hoping to learn a little more as I get to know Alex better through his transmissions. So far, I'm not sure I'm connecting with Alex. I'm hoping to connect on a deeper level more emotional level as he continues to read his transmissions on the golden iPod, much like Carl Sagan's golden record. This book has definitely forced me to do a little extra outside research on Carl Sagan as he's clearly a hero and idol of Alex, so much so he's named his dog Carl Sagan.<br />
<h3>
<br />Young Adult</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi59vCMnThu4W8wCaKF9t8sBMJB_SZJmSTO7HoMZfOP08aYvrsSh1wIBub2hgF75gccXwJ4OJ75OVPQ5Dx4ohCBUO59mO_G6q_0Zz9LaJabhHElTfu4D1RpKAweWNzcE4y_yQA3eOQcCC/s1600/Slide3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi59vCMnThu4W8wCaKF9t8sBMJB_SZJmSTO7HoMZfOP08aYvrsSh1wIBub2hgF75gccXwJ4OJ75OVPQ5Dx4ohCBUO59mO_G6q_0Zz9LaJabhHElTfu4D1RpKAweWNzcE4y_yQA3eOQcCC/s640/Slide3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
How could one not read, <i>The Hate U Give</i> by Angie Thomas after all the buzz on Twitter and social media. I ordered a copy on Amazon and by page 27, I knew I couldn't put it down. It took me less than three days to finish from cover to cover. <b>The writing is exceptional</b>. <i>Can we call the Printz award, now?</i> It's going to win. It's that good. It's not a fluke that's the number one on the New York Times' Young Adult Hardcover list. It will leave you speechless and laughing out loud all within a few paragraphs. The emotion, honesty, and rawness of the book are powerful. Plus, the questions Star asks are ones that are relevant to our students today. Angie Thomas has perfectly captured the imperfectness of high school, relationships, and family. I highly recommend this book to <i>all </i>teachers & readers grades 9 and up.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfD37dZQum67E6Zky5Xg34JfPTcJnrsag95QbtCvff04sUMnM2ujklAgkYpqb_HoXPMF_Jbr9YDLx0d6MEhbx8r6ah0t2Nfexs0EjCMfZlnt_RXUmaZzJE2M3E2Hd6FUK9SCsdY-FV8E/s1600/Signature.png" />Amanda Schreiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07469128991778777360noreply@blogger.com25