What the world needs now is something SIMPLE and BEAUTIFUL! If I were
in charge of the world, I would put a POETRY SONGBOOK in each child's hands
in the traditional or virtual classroom. Children might forget
"tapping and swiping," but this would give them a sweet and lasting memory.
If you are like me and you are tired of hearing about devices and
slides and electronic skill games, this is the perfect balance!
Why? These poetry books will nurture a love of reading, oral
language, phonological awareness, and other reading skills. Through
poetry and music all children can be successful and find a connection with
their classmates and teachers. This will also be a way that parents
can share in the learning experience.
What? You will need pocket folders with 3 prongs, copies of poems and
songs, and art media such as crayons and markers.
When? These could be used for circle time and large group
instruction. They could also be used as a springboard for working with
a small group on specific skills. Best of all, you'd be putting a book
in every child's home!
How? Choose 4 or 5 simple songs, nursery rhymes, or
poems that you would like to introduce the first month of school. Run
off copies of these and insert them in the pocket folder. Each week
introduce one of the songs using the strategies below.
*Challenge children to close their eyes and make a picture of the poem in
their brains, and then ask them to illustrate it
*As the year progresses add new songs or rhymes that would engage the
children or relate to a theme or season.
Note! I would not put illustrations on these because the children
will be able to make a personal connection when they add their own
drawings.
Shared Reading
Reread the poem each day. Create interest with one of these
ideas:
Shadow Reading– Teacher reads a line and then students repeat.
Say What? Read the wrong way and have children correct you by shouting out, “Say what?”
Missing Word – Omit a word and have the children fill it in.
Shadow Reading– Teacher reads a line and then students repeat.
Say What? Read the wrong way and have children correct you by shouting out, “Say what?”
Missing Word – Omit a word and have the children fill it in.
Stand and Read – Children stand and take a small step for each word.
Take a Turn- Divide children into groups and each section reads a different line. For example: Let boys and girls alternate reading lines.
Skill Work
Ask children to find letters they know, words they can read, punctuation,
and so forth.
Homework
Ask children to read (or share) the poem to someone in their
family.
Review
Each week review previous poems and invite children to comment as to
their likes, dislikes, etc.