Sixth Grade October Library Happenings

This month, sixth graders focused on the first two steps of the Big6 Research Model.  We talked about "task definition" and discussed various ways to narrow a topic.  We practiced using the "encyclopedia method" whereby students utilized an inverted triangle graphic organizer and the Encyclopedia Britannica database to narrow a topic. We also talked about "information seeking strategies" and how some information sources are better than others when solving information problems.  We practiced by playing a Reference Relay game whereby teams of students had to match the best information source to answer various questions. They had a great time while learning all about reference sources of information.

This month, sixth graders also enjoyed reading The Widow's Broom by the Caldecott winning author and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg.  They always enjoy searching for the bull terrier named Fritz hidden in the illustrations of all of his books!

Fifth Grade October Library Happenings

This month, fifth graders utilized the Encyclopedia Britannica database to complete a timeline on an early European explorer of their choice.  They learned what a "citation" is and learned how to retrieve it right from the database!  How easy is that!  Make sure to visit the links tab on the library catalog for links to all statewide databases. Click on the icon below to view one of the many valuable resources offered jointly through the Massachusetts Library System and Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. 

Interactive read-alouds for this month included Miro in the Kingdom of the Sun: an Incan folktale by Jane Kurtz which connects to the fifth grade study of ancient empires.  We also read Heckedy Peg by Audrey Wood.  Students discussed what makes a story a folktale or fairy tale and then identified elements in both books.

Fourth Grade October Library Happenings

Fourth graders discussed the elements of tall tales and read Johnny Appleseed by Steven Kellogg.  This was a great way to kick off our unit on apple pumpkin research.  Students used print and electronic reference sources to learn about these plentiful fall fruits.  To connect to the fourth graders study of immigration, we also read Shy Mama's Halloween by Anne Broyles.

Third Grade October Library Happenings

Third graders have continued to work at centers to learn about the electronic catalog and parts of a book.  This month, we also began to learn about library organization.  We read Alpha Betti by Carlene Morton to learn about how the fiction section of the library is organized.  We also utilized the iPads to play a fun game called Shelver in order to practice putting fiction call numbers in order.

To connect to the third grade study of life cycles, we read Pumpkin Jack by Will Hubbell.