My students enjoyed the
BOOK IT! bookstore we had.
Every student was encouraged to read books. For every book they
read, they received a "book buck" (play money). They cashed
in their "bucks" for items they wanted at the store, which
was open once a week. For example, a pencil or eraser costs one
buck, BOOK IT! pins cost two bucks, and folders cost three bucks.
I included other miscellaneous items in the bookstore such as paperback
books, frisbees, and designer shoelaces. Students could cash in
all the bucks they had or use part of them and save the rest. What
they bought was entirely up to them. It really encouraged them to
read.
Sharon Rankin, Paris Elementary, Paris, KS, Grade 3
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The Birthday Bag: Each Kindergarten Class has
a room logo. Our logo is the Manatee. I have three birthday bags
which each contain three books that have birthday titles and a
stuffed Manatee. Children may choose one of the bags to take home
on their birthday and the Manatee is my gift to the child for
reading. The bag is returned to the school for use on another
birthday.
Brona Cheek Smith, Arbor Ridge Elementary, Orlando, FL, Grade
K
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Begin a TV vs. Reading Chart for each child.
It would be a weekly chart to keep a record of time spent reading
and time spent watching TV. If total reading time exceeds total
TV watching time, the child earns a treat. The class with the
most winners could have a party.
Lindy Guy, Maclay School, Tallahassee, FL, Librarian
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Stump the Teacher: Get your students
to read and to use a dictionary by telling them to find three
words each that they think you won't know. The words must come
from a book or story they are reading. Compile the list and choose
ten of the words for a vocabulary lesson. It keeps them interested
and makes them read to find words that you don't know. My students
love it!
Marsha Jones, Craig Elementary, Craigsville, WV, Grade 2
