The following tips will help you set up the Read to Me ELP™ in your school and ensure that it is an easy-to-use and highly-effective educational tool.
When your school first receives the books:
• The books will be packaged in thematic units, which are indicated by labels on the backs of the books. Recruit a teacher, aide, or volunteer to place the books for each unit into separate tubs.
• Make a list of the books in each tub and include a grid next to the titles to keep track of which student has borrowed each book. Make at least 10 copies of each list.
• Distribute the tubs with the different units among the participating classrooms. Teachers should focus on each unit for 2-3 weeks and then trade with another classroom.
• It is strongly suggested that parents sign a letter of commitment to participate in the program with their children. A sample is available below.
Once the books are in the classroom, each teacher should:
1. Arrange the books on a table, chairs, or whatever else is available so that students can easily view them.
2. Talk to the students and parents about the importance of taking care of the books before starting the program. For the children, you might consider comparing the books to a new baby. Would you put a new baby on the floor? Would you put the baby on the table while you are eating? For parents and students, recommend putting the book back into the bag immediately after reading it.
3. When beginning a new thematic unit, it is important to introduce the theme by tapping the students’ background knowledge and making connections. For example, in the Healthy Me unit you could ask: What do you already know about being healthy? What is one of your healthy habits?
4. Read one or two books from the unit out loud. It is critical to read to the children every day. Ask the questions included with each book and use them to start discussions.
5. Let the students chose a book to take home to be read aloud by a parent or other adult to the child. Students will want to take home whatever book you read, so it may be a good idea to choose one of the titles that has a duplicate copy to read in class.
6. When students choose a book, put their initials or class number next to the title of the book on the inventory list.
7. When the students return to their seats, have them all put the books in their bags. Doing it together reinforces the idea of taking good care of the books.
8. Consider sending home a reporting log for parents to sign. This will help make sure that students keep up with their reading at home. You could give students a reward such as a sticker for each signature.
9. When the students bring their books back the next day, ask if anyone would like to share with the class. What did they like? Do they think someone else might enjoy the book they read? After several children get a chance to share, the students can choose a new book.
10. Trade your bundle of books with another classroom after 2-3 weeks to begin a new unit.
Educators should inform parents about the Read to Me program since they will play an important part in their children’s reading. Please consider using the following letter template and be sure to include the reading tips for parents.
