I am designing this blog with a fifth grade Reading class in mind. I feel that, by fifth grade, in too many cases, students have begun to fall away from reading for pleasure. If children are writers, they will also be readers. If they begin to find themselves immersed in the wonders of sharing their voice in this way, they are likely to spend time seeing what other voices have to say and begin student-initiated learning on their own time. Having had the opportunity to observe in an excellent 6th Grade Reading class, I have also seen how critical strong reading skills can be in helping bridge the gap for low SES students.
I plan to use books from my own collection, purchases from the Friends of the Library book sale, book donations from family and friends and other acquisitions to provide an in-class library. I can still remember one of my elementary teachers, Mr. Pracht, having an excellent library with books from varying genres. He made certain, as will I, to have materials which will challenge readers of any skill level.
