Each Tuesday the amazing bloggers at Two Writing Teachers host Slice of Life Stories (SOLS). This is where bloggers link up to share anything they would like to share about what is happening in their lives.
I like to do a few book talks each week in my fourth grade classroom, but recently due to snow days and just regular business, I have not been doing them regularly. This week I made sure to do two book talks. I shared Jennifer Richard Jacobson's new book, Paper Things and Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt.
My students do not always hang on my every word when I am teaching, but they do when I am talking about books I love. Even if the book does not interest them, they want to know why I liked it so much.
I must have been pretty excited because after talking about these two books this week, almost every single student wanted to enter for a chance to be the first reader, even the boys who normally prefer fantasy. I felt like a gameshow host as I pulled out the "winners". There were squeals of delight and fist pumping. This was followed by negotiations by classmates to get the book when the winners were done.
Why am I NOT doing this more often? Book talks are a simple, quick way to get students motivated and excited to read. This week was a good reminder for me. If you have not tried book talks in your classroom, just try one and you will be hooked. Just choose a book you love and tell your audience what it is about and why you love it. Make sure not to give too much away. I keep a jar and slips of paper for my two classes to enter to read the book first, but any procedure will work as long as your enthusiasm shines through.
Love it! Book talks & reading minutes "sell" books! Your enthusiasm and love for reading will stick with them. Great titles to share. Love the jar / adds to the excitement! TY for sharing pics too.
ReplyDeleteI know just what you mean. I'm always so surprised that the booktalk generate so much excitement. Who knew the kids cared so much about what I think of a book. And it's a win-win situation. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWith my older students, I also have them doing book talks, Gigi. You're right, it's a big deal, and hands fly up for the book(s)! (Can't wait to read Paper Things-Fish In A Tree-awesome!)
ReplyDeleteBook talks are the best way to inspire readers. I am also loving that jar - what a great way to collect names!
ReplyDeleteI've heard a lot of buzz about both. I haven't read either one yet. Can't wait to read them.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how just talking about books makes students want to read them! I started drawings this year because I moved up to the middle school and had so many more students. I think I need to start buying multiple copies now!
ReplyDeleteI love the way you organizing this book talks. Students must be so excited when their name is pulled from the jar. Thank you for sharing this idea.
ReplyDeleteI love the way you organizing this book talks. Students must be so excited when their name is pulled from the jar. Thank you for sharing this idea.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the reminder. I haven't done this in a while, either. My students do book talks at the end of each quarter. Great way to spread book love.
ReplyDeleteBooks that are blessed by the teacher are always in hot demand. It's exciting to see them catch the fever for the books you love.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great reminder. Book talks are so powerful. Kids want what teachers are excited about! Love your ticket system, too!
ReplyDeleteI had a blast doing book talks last week with our after school book club and with 2 seventh grade classes in the library right before mid-winter break. Your words hit the nail on the head: "Book talks are a simple, quick way to get students motivated and excited to read."
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