What's New at the SDMS LMC
Scroll to find news, recommendations, tutorials and more!
Silas Deane Middle School Library
SDMS Library Media Center Staff
- Ms. Poulos, Library Media Specialist
- Mrs. Zocco, Library Media Assistant
April and May 2024
Teaching and Learning
Seventh Grade Research Projects: Argument Writing and Africa
The Library Media Specialist rotated working with each social studies teacher and all 7th Grade classes to help them investigate different topics about the African continent in order to write an argument paper. Students could research the Atlantic Slave Trade and Imperialism, Desertification, Child Labor, or Apartheid. They took notes, formulated a claim, pulled evidence from their notes to support their claim, wrote a multi-paragraph essay, reviewed/learned how to use lead -in and in-text MLA references, and created a final works cited page. It was a challenging assessment--but many supports were provided to students along the way including a curated resource list, writing tools, and tools for explaining evidence and citing sources. These projects wrapped up at the end of April.
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
Consider Applying for a Wethersfield Library Card!
In order to encourage summer reading and student public library use over the summer, teachers will offer students a Wethersfield Library card application to fill out and return to their ELA teacher. Parents/Guardians can help students to fill it out and return it to school. We will then forward applications to the Wethersfield Library and get the library cards to students. Here is the link to a printable Wethersfield Library Card Application which can be returned to ELA teachers or the SDMS Library Staff..
Eighth Grade English Language Arts: Poetry and Short Story Analysis
Students were reading and presenting on poetry in April and are now analyzing short stories. We provided students with some ideas for novels in verse that they could read to complement their poetry unit. Towards the end of the year, they will look at some excerpts from classic literature and have the opportunity to read a graphic novel version or full version of a classic if time allows.
7th Grade English Language Arts: Historical Fiction
Students have been independently finding books through their classroom libraries or the school library. They will be reading several historical fiction titles on a particular time period that they chose. We are happy to see students taking advantage of our fantastic collection of historical fiction books! We provide ideas for students through slide shows and curated collections in our Destiny Library Catalog.
Nutmeg Voting and New Nutmeg 2025 Middle School Nominees
Students voted at the end of April for their favorite 2024 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees! Top choices were Dress Coded, Playing the Cards You're Dealt, and Stowaway.
Students can now begin reading the new list of 2025 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees!
SDMS Library Hosts: Scholastic Buy One, Get One Free Book Fair
- Book Fair Homepage
- Buy one item, get another item of equal (or lesser) value free!
- Students will visit on Monday and Tuesday with a class (see schedule below)
- Students can purchase when they visit or return later in the week on a pass to purchase.
- Families can set up eWallets for students to use to avoid handing them cash!
- This is a great way to stock up on affordable summer reading titles.
- Late hours for families on Wednesday, May 15 --open after school until 7 pm
April Choice Board and Virtual Bookshelves
May Choice Board and Virtual Bookshelves
After School in the Library on Wednesdays and Thursdays
"April 4: Craft: Perler Beads
April 18: Craft: Design your own t-shirt
April 25: Earth Day: Paint a Planter
May 2: Star Wars Trivia Contest (May the Fourth...)
May 16: Duct Tape Crafts: Wallet, Pencil case, or Bookmarks
May 23: Tie Dye Tote Bag
March 2024
Teaching and Learning
Finding and Evaluating Credible Sources
In English Language Arts classes, seventh grade students visited the library to learn how to find and evaluate credible sources using the SIFT strategy (Stop, Investigate the Source, Find Other or Better Coverage, Trace it back to the original post/source/link). SIFT requires lateral reading (opening tabs to the side of an article to investigate and find other coverage or do reverse image searches). Students had the opportunity to practice looking at some images and articles together, carefully analyzing them for bias, misinformation, and task relevance. Finally, students applied SIFT while searching for some good sources of their own on their argument topics; they "crowd sourced" a document with good articles which they have been using during the current argument research unit!
Chemistry through Minecraft
Seventh grade science students are visiting the library and enjoying some hands-on learning using Minecraft to learn more about chemistry. Students are using Minecraft EDU edition on specially formatted Chromebooks to change the number of protons, electrons, and neutrons to make elements; create compounds like sodium acetate and ammonia; combine compounds, and reduce materials to their elements. In addition, they were able to apply chemistry by crafting balloons using elements and compounds; creating gardens using the super fertilizer they created; light the area with glow sticks and torches (using chlorides for different colors); and brew antidotes to poison and nausea.
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
Eighth Grade Poetry Studies and Novel in Verse Reading Ideas
Students are studying poetry in 8th grade! Teachers have carts of poetry books from the library in their classrooms which students are using and enjoying. While students are not required to read a poetry book specifically, they do need an independent reading book and can choose a novel in verse or other poetry book for independent reading. Students can explore some novels in verse and poetry books in our library collection or in our digital library Sora.
7th Grade Non Fiction Reading Ideas
March Choice Boards and Virtual Book Shelves
Students can explore books or choice boards on some of the following topics this month:
- Women's History Month Choice Board and WHM Virtual Book Shelf
- Ramadan Choice Board and Ramadan, Eid, and Growing Up Muslim Virtual Book Shelf
- March Madness Choice Board and Virtual Book Shelf
- Disability Awareness Month Virtual Book Shelf
- Developmental Disability Awareness Choice Board
- St. Patrick's Day or Read Something Green for March 17!
SDMS Library Staff at the BIPOC Community Fair: March 14
SDMS and WHS School Library Staff will be in the fireside room at the Wethersfield BIPOC Community Fair. Craft a reading related sticker, color a bookmark, listen to a story read by high school student readers, enter a raffle to win an "own voices" book, and learn more about how the school libraries are JEDI's for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion through their teaching, programming, and collections!
February 2024
Teaching and Learning
World Read Aloud Day
Click on the slide show to learn more about the authors and books featured!
Non Fiction Book Shopping
Seventh grade students had the opportunity to do some book shopping and learn more about the non fiction available to them in the SDMS Library. In addition, to reviewing the organization of non fiction books by Dewey category, students brainstormed topics of books they would like to read and "sampled" some non fiction books in a "book tasting."
In addition, students learned how to find ebook and audiobook non fiction and e-magazines in Sora, our digital library!
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
Thursday After School Events: Games, Making and More!
Black History Month Slide Show and Trivia Contest
January 2024
Teaching and Learning
Eighth Grade Research Support: Argument Writing
The library opened itself to more personalized and independent support this month during the 8th grade argument writing assignment on the causes of the American Revolution. Students who were new to SDMS this year or who wanted additional support on notetaking, citing sources, organizing ideas or writing could access the library and the library staff for individualized support during social studies classes.
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
Accessing and Utilizing the SDMS Library
Students are able to visit the SDMS Library before school, during the day with a Smart Pass from a teacher, and during Den. Language Arts teachers sometimes bring students to the library as a group when starting a new unit. Students can also place books on hold through our online library catalog from their classroom and the book will be delivered to their language arts teacher to distribute to the student. We have a wonderful collection of fiction and non fiction texts that support both pleasure reading as well as topics covered in the curriculum.
Tips for Encouraging Reading at Home
Here are some tips to keep your teens reading.
1. Encourage them to set goals for reading.
2. Encourage them to use libraries--the school library and the Wethersfield Library!
3. Frequent bookstores.
4. Find a book that you can listen to in the car or read together.
5. Look up things they are interested in online and read interesting articles aloud to them or with them.
5. Ask them about what they are reading in school!
6 . Set aside a designated reading time in your house.
Middle School Nutmeg Nominees
Middle School Nutmeg Nominees
Voting for the 2024 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees begins in April. Encourage your child to read several (or all) of the 2024 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees.
Memoirs
Eighth graders are writing memoirs so we conducted book talks for all eighth grade students on some of the fantastic memoirs we have available in our library for check out! We encouraged students to read a memoir while writing!
January Choice Board
Check out our January Choiceboard which includes: World Holidays, Three Kings Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Books for the New Year!
Winter Session: After School Programs @sdmslibrary
The SDMS Library offers after school programs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Mondays is Minecraft (preregistration through Youth and Social Services required). Wednesdays is Creative Writing and Thursdays is Games, Making and More! Because there is no late bus, students will have to arrange their own transportation home. The winter session runs from January 24 to March 13, 2024.
Minecraft Mondays
Mr. Solano runs an educational version of Minecraft on Monday afternoons in the library. Students who want to join must register through the Wethersfield Youth and Social Services Youth Programs website.
Writing Wednesdays
Students who love to write can join our creative writing group. It is free to join, and students can sign up on the Creative Writing Google Form or see Mrs. Poulos for details.
Thursday: Games, Making, and More!
Bring a friend to play board games, work on puzzles, contribute to our Rubik's Cube mosaic, OR participate in our weekly activity or craft. Students can sign up on the Thursday Library After School Google Form or see Mrs. Poulos for details.
November and December 2023
Teaching and Learning
Seventh Grade Science Research: Informational Paper: Renewable Energy Sources
Seventh graders were introduced to a variety of sources to learn about alternative energy sources. They were instructed in using NoodleTools for citing sources and had lessons on notetaking without plagiarizing, Students also looked at the current handbook's academic honesty policy and learned about the real-world consequences of plagiarism through multiple news sources. To learn about their topics, students were given a variety of sources to read, take notes on, cite, and utilize for evidence in their final papers. Students were introduced to the use of MLA parenthetical in-text references. Along the way, students had the opportunity to discuss their findings and talk through what they knew, even drawing models to help with explanations for how wind power, water power, geothermal power or solar power. work The library staff split their time with all three seventh grade teams, providing support to teachers and students throughout the duration of the project. This experience is the foundation for future research at SDMS. Seventh grade students will have the opportunity to practice using these skills in future social studies and language arts papers.
Eighth Grade Informational Paper/Science Research: Human Impact on the Environment
Eighth grade support for science research was more informal, supporting teachers and students as needed and when available (as seventh and eighth grade science research projects were happening simultaneously). All eighth grade students again gathered notes using a variety of sources and notetaking styles, tracked their sources, used NoodleTools to cite sources, added specific evidence in the form of statistics, quotes, and paraphrased facts, and checked their work in Turn It In. This year, students learned how to use APA in-text citations in preparation for science classes in high school.
Hour of Code
Seventh grade students on the Orange and Green Teams had the opportunity to explore resources curated by the library staff and participate in the Hour of Code in December!
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
After School: Creative Writing Wednesdays
Students continue to work on their own writing projects as well as begin with a writing challenge. We've had fun using the spin the wheel picker for choosing character names, conflicts, or settings. We try to do two quick shares, one after the initial writing prompt challenge, and one at the end of the session for best line or paragraph of their own writing project. We've also had fun using a box of story cards which has characters, scenarios, and more to pick from and use when we need some creative inspiration!
After School Thursdays: Games, Making and More!
We hosted some fun events including Fall into a Good Book, Drop Everything and Read, All Souls Day painting craft and papel picado, Perler Bead crafts, and a Native American Indian Month movie.
October 2023
Teaching and Learning
Energy Transformation Stations
Seventh grade students visited the library to learn about energy transformation through hands on stations. Stations included line coding with Ozobots, obstacle course navigating with Spheros (using iPads), creating sounds, lights, or motion with Snap Circuits, and building ramps and towers with Keva Planks.
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
October Choice Board and Virtual Book Shelves
Explore our October Choice Board which features information on Hispanic Heritage Month, Unity Day, and Indigenous People's Day! It also has virtual book shelves for Spooky Reads, Banned Books Week, and National Bullying Prevention Month.
After School on Thursdays: Games, Making, and More!
Students enjoyed learning about Diwali and making a diya craft as well as painting literary (or other themed) pumpkins in the courtyard.
Literary Pumpkin Painting
SDMS Lion Pumpkin Painting
Diwali: Diya
September 2023
Teaching and Learning
CT Library Standards
School Library Orientation: Seventh Grade
Student Access to the School Library
SDMS Library Policies and Procedures
Reading Ideas, Enrichment, Special Events, and Programs
Enrichment Choice Boards and Virtual Bookshelves
SDMS Fall Scholastic Book Fair
Didn't get to the book fair or couldn't find what you wanted? You can still support the SDMS Scholastic Book Fair online through October 1 by finding our fair (Silas Deane Middle School) and shopping the Scholastic Shop! Bring on the Bookjoy—25% of every online purchase from Sep 18 – Oct 1 directly benefits our school! You can also pre-order the new Diary of A Wimpy Kid: No Brainer which will be released October 24!
After-School Programs in the SDMS Library
What after-school programs does the school library offer?
Minecraft Mondays
Minecraft Requires Pre-Registration and $35 fee through Wethersfield Youth/Social Services
Creative Writing Wednesdays (no fee)
Games and More! Thursdays (no fee)
The Wednesday Creative Writing and Thursday Games and More! programs are free of charge, and students can sign up for all of the weeks or week by week as interested. The programs run from 2:45 pm -3:45 pm. Unfortunately, because there is no late bus, students must arrange for their own transportation home.
How can students sign up to participate for Wednesday or Thursday after-school programs?
June 2023
Author Visit Fun
Pablo Cartaya
Check out some of the pictures from the day below!
Reading Ideas & Choice Boards
Read and Learn!
Summer Reading
Summer Reading Information, Enrichment, and Resources
All summer reading information can be found on the SDMS Summer Reading Newsletter as well as on the SDMS Summer Reading Webpage.
Students should read (or listen to) three books of their choice that is a good level for them, of interest, and has not been read before. Students can pace themselves by finishing one book in June, one in July and one in August. Students should log their books online (preferred method) through the Wethersfield Library Summer Reading Form to receive prizes and fulfill the requirement. Their entries will be automatically submitted to their English Language Arts Teachers in September!
Click on the image below to get to specific links for information, programs, and enrichment activities. And don't forget to visit the Wethersfield Library this summer!
May 2023
Author Visit
Author Pablo Cartaya: May 17
About Pablo: Two of Pablo's books have been recent Connecticut Nutmeg Book Nominees and he has won many awards for his writing. In addition, he has a broad range of interesting experiences including working on sitcoms, doing Spanish voiceovers, and writing scripts for television projects. Pablo is Cuban-American and often incorporates aspects of Latino culture and Spanish in his books.
The Schedule: Each grade will be hear him speak at an assembly in the morning. There will also be some time for book signings during lunch and an afternoon writing workshop for interested students (with a maximum of 30 participants).
Free Books: As part of the grant, each student gets a free book! Before spring break, Mrs. Poulos visited classrooms and shared this slide show, talking about the author and his books. Students were asked to select a book through a Google Form. Books were ordered and we distributed them to 7th graders last week and they are going out to 8th graders this week! We encourage students to read his books, which are in the library, in Sora, and in Language Arts Teachers' classrooms.
Reading Ideas
In Class and At Home
Seventh Grade students are busy reading books on a self-selected social issue while Eighth Grade students are reading short stories in preparation for a literary essay. We hope many students will read one of Pablo Cartaya's books as well!
Students can explore books in our AAPI Heritage Month Virtual Book Shelf, our Star Wars Reads Bookshelf, or our Baseball Season Bookshelf.
Nutmeg Voting is underway! The Nutmeg Book Award encourages children in grades 2-12 to read quality literature and to choose their favorite from a list of ten nominated titles. Right now, In addition, students are encouraged to read any of last year's 2023 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees or this new list of 2024 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees! Click on the images below to find out more about the nominated titles!
Enrichment: Choice Boards & More!
May Celebrations
After School in the Library
Join us for fun after school!
- Minecraft Mondays with Mr. Solano (by preregistration)
- Wednesday Creative Writing
- Thursday Games, Making and More
- Sign up for Thursdays on Mrs. Poulos's Library Form
Creative Writing on Wednesdays
Games, Making and More on Thursdays!
May 11: Kawaii with Polymer Clay
May 18: Author Reading Roundtable and Trivia
May 25: Craft with Pride
Make a craft and chat with high school students! Make connections! Learn about the WHS Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) and hear about what they do! Bring a favorite book to share/discuss that others might want to read at our reading roundtable. All welcome! Allies, too!
Library Refresh Project
Check out our 'refreshed' space!
Overdue Books
March 2023
Teaching and Learning
Seventh and Eighth Grade Research Papers
Reading Ideas
Seventh Grade Historical Fiction
Eighth Grade Language Arts: Poetry
CT Nutmeg Award Books and Reader
Don't forget to read the current 2023 Nutmeg Nominees before April before voting begins!
Enrichment: Choice Boards and More!
We have many opportunities for learning in March!
After School in the Library
After School Events In March
On Wednesdays, students can join our creative writing group! It's a great way to connect with a creative community of writers. We start with a surprise prompt for fifteen minutes and then spend time working on our own writing with more time for feedback if desired. We are working towards polishing and publishing some of the writing at the end of the year. Students sign up on the Wednesday Google Form.
Thursdays: Games, Makerspace and More!
On Thursdays, students can come with friends to play board games or work on puzzles. In addition, every Thursday, there is some kind of special project/program to do! Students sign up on the Thursday Google Form.
- March 9: Perler Beads or Board Games/Puzzles
- March 16: Video Creation/Green Screen for Women’s History Month or Board Games/ Puzzles
- March 23: Coding with Bots: Ozobots and Spheros or Board Games/Puzzles
March 9: Perler Beads
March 16: Video and Green Screen
March 23: Ozobots and Spheros
African American Read In Celebration with the WHS BSU: Thursday, March 2
Students joined us after school with the WHS Brothers and Sisters United and enjoyed a poem, snacks, and a bracelet making craft as a culmination of the African American Read In and a way to connect with WHS students.
Some SDMS students participated in the African American Read last month by reading a book from our display, from our virtual Black History Month non fiction or fiction virtual book shelves, or an article from the Black History Month Choice Board. Students filled in a reflective exit ticket, dropped it off in the library, and were entered to win a prize: An Amazon gift card.
We picked four winners: Yadeliz, Nalia, Antonio, and Landon! Congratulations!
February 2023
Teaching and Learning
Evaluating Online Sources: Argument Writing in 7th Grade English Language Arts
Learning Chemistry with Minecraft
Reading and Enrichment
Seventh Grade ELA: Non Fiction Reading
8th Grade ELA: Non Fiction Reading and Memoirs
Virtual Bookshelves and Choice Boards
After School in the @sdmslibrary
Wednesdays: Creative Writing
Thursdays: Board Games, Makerspace Stations, Special Programs and More!
Love a Book Cafe: Thursday, February 9
African American Read In
Students are encouraged to participate in our SDMS African American Read In during the month of February in honor of Black History Month.
Students can participate in the African American Read by reading a book from our display, from our virtual Black History Month non fiction or fiction virtual book shelves, or an article from the Black History Month Choice Board. Students should fill in a reflective exit ticket, drop it off in the library, where they will be entered to win a prize: A $25 Amazon gift card. We will pick four lucky winners at the end of the month.
December 2022
Teaching and Learning
Human Impact Research Papers
Hour of Code
All students may wish to explore the Hour of Code by Content Choice Board
Reading and Enrichment
Seventh Grade Close Reading Unit
Eighth Grade Dystopian and Science Fiction Reading Ideas
Virtual Book Shelves and Choice Boards
We have also put together some choice boards for enrichment on Hour of Code, World Holidays, Winter Solstice, and Bill of Rights Day.
Click on the images in the December Choice Board and Virtual Bookshelves image below to get to the desired information.
After School in the Library
This Month After School @sdmslibrary
We continue to hold our Creative Writing Group on Wednesdays. We will meet again on December 14. Students can work on short stories, plays, poems, or a graphic novel. Every week, a writing tip is shared and students have time to work on their own writing. Students have the opportunity to share their work and get feedback at the end of the session. It is a lively and creative group! Students can use this Wednesday After School sign up link through Ms. Poulos's Library Google Classroom.
Games and More Thursdays: December 8 and December 15
We continue to run special events on Thursdays as well as have games and puzzles available for use. This month we are holding a World Holiday Trivia/Digital Escape Room on Thursday, December 8. Students can partner up and solve the challenges! We are also holding our annual Hot Cocoa Cafe, a drop everything and read event, on December 15. Students can read in front of a virtual fireplace, share good book ideas with others, and win raffle prizes. Students must be pre registered to attend. Students can use this Thursday After School sign up link.through Ms. Poulos's Library Google Classroom.
Thursday, December 8
Wednesday, December 14
Thursday, December 15
Last Month After School @sdmslibrary
Thanks to SDMS PAC for paying for the t-shirts and t-shirt making supplies!
Fall into a Good Book Cafe
Design Your Own T-Shirt
Native American "Pottery"
SDMS Library in the News
Rare Reminder Article: Author in Residence Inspires Local Students
November 2022
Teaching and Learning
STEM in the Library!
Researching Renewable Energy Sources
Learning to search for and find non-fiction!
Reading and Enrichment
We have also put together some choiceboards for enrichment on Dia de Los Muertos, Veterans Day and American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
Click on the images in the November Choice Board and Virtual Book Shelves to get to the desired information.
November Choice Boards and Virtual Book Shelves
Writer in Residence Visit a Success!
Jeanne Zulick Ferruolo Wows SDMS!
Many thanks to the Wethersfield Education Foundation for supporting writing and creativity in our school through this visit!
Here are some of the comments from students:
- I learned that all books and movies have three parts. The first where you meet the character and what they want, the second where something gets in the way of what they want, and the third where they have to make a decision and the action starts falling.
- That any ordinary object can start an entire best-selling novel.
- What I learned from the workshop is that you need to be relaxed and think about, what can you write on a paper, think about moments that happened in your life, think about place, city or country that you love or live in and to think about what is something that you love the most. That is what I learned from creative writing.
- I learned all the essential parts of a story to help me better craft my writing. And how to properly structure the base of story ideas.
- I learned about the plot line and building conflict in the story
- I learned to be myself and that I am brave
- I learned that you have to know to motivate yourself when you feel like quitting
- I learned that you can get inspiration from every object and person around you no matter what it looks like.
- I learned that you should put yourself in someone else's shoes when someone is having a hard time.
- I learned new writing strategies like how sometimes you can start writing at the end of the book and slowly find out how you want the beginning.
- The program was great, and I would surely like to see more programs like this one, because I felt, through listening to Gladys' story, how hard it is to leave your beloved country and because of that I was inspired to make a poem about my loved country, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
After School Programs in the SDMS School Library
Upcoming Events
- Creative Writing Group: Wednesday sign up link
- Special Programs: Games, Making and More! Thursday sign up link
Basketmaking and Clay Pot Painting
Make Your Own T-Shirt
Creative Writing on Wednesdays, weekly
Past Events
Diwali
Fall into a Good Book
Pumpkin Painting
October 2022
Upcoming Author Visit
Jeanne Zulick Ferruolo: Writer in Residence
The whole school will have the opportunity to hear her speak on October 18 through a virtual assembly. The following week, she will be based in the library hosting different writing workshops for interested seventh (October 26 ) and eighth (October 27) graders.Students will be able to sign up with a Google Form on the Library Classroom.
We have copies of her books in the school library and in Sora (ebooks or audio). You may also consider ordering one of her books for your child through this link with Riverbend Bookshop, a local independent bookstore in Glastonbury. Books ordered by October 10 will be delivered to the school. You can note SDMS/Poulos in the online order.
Reading Ideas
Fall into a Good Book!
A great place to start is the 2023 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees.In addition, for monthly themed connections, consider:
Enrichment and Exploration
October Choice Boards
Indigenous People's Day
Unity Day
Diwali
After School Programs and Activities
After School Hours and Sign Ups
Monday: Minecraft EDU: Join Mr. Solano and work collaboratively with other students on building challenges and fun in Minecraft. Seats limited. Students who are preregistered through Wethersfield Youth Services only. The fall session is full.
Wednesday sign up: Creative Writing
Thursday sign up: Games, Makerspace, Programs and More!
LATE BUS:
Students who normally ride the bus to school can sign up to take the SDMS after school late bus. The late bus usually leaves school at 3:45 pm. The late bus link is on a tab on the SDMS website. The late bus form opens at 7:30 am and closes at 1:00 pm each day. Students must be participating in an after school activity at SDMS that day in order to take the late bus.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Literary Pumpkin Painting
Diwali
September 2022
News
Library Orientations
Top Summer Readers
Sebi P.- 30 books (Crimson Team)
Andy M.- 26 books (Orange Team)
Ethan J. -24 books (Orange Team)
Emilia R.- 23 books (Turquoise Team)
Sasha B. -21 books (Turquoise Team)
Gabriella D.- 21 books (Magenta Team)
Katelyn W. -18 books (Magenta Team)
Isabel D.- 18 books (Crimson Team)
Michael S- 18 books (Green Team)
Merisa M- 13 books (Orange Team)
Zamareya T-13 books (Magenta Team)
Emily S- 11 books (Green Team)
Scholastic Book Fair
Enrichment and Exploration
Explore our September Choice Boards and Virtual Bookshelves!
- Deaf Awareness Month
- September 11, 2001
- Constitution Day
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Banned Books Week
- International Day of Peace
May 31 - June 17
End of Year Library Procedures
- All library materials are due back to the library by Friday, June 3rd
- Books can be returned to the Media Center, the green Library Returns bin outside of the main entrance or to their Language Arts teacher
- Students who do not return their books by that date will be billed the cost of replacement for any unreturned/lost book
- Payment for any lost materials can be either cash (exact amounts preferred as we do not have a lot of change) or check made out to WPS Escrow
Summer Reading!
As we approach our summer break, we encourage all incoming 7th and 8th grade students and families to look through our summer reading resources. They will include the requirements for SDMS as well as many reading suggestions, fun activities and enrichment opportunities offered by the SDMS Media Center, Wethersfield Public Schools and the Wethersfield Library!
Click on the images below!
Reading Ideas
Sora -- Our Ebook and Audiobook Catalog!
Students can also link the Wethersfield Library in their Sora account through Library Connection (if they haven't done so already) to access the Wethersfield Library's collection of ebooks and audiobooks as well.
Book Trailers
New MS Nutmeg Nominees!
Enrichment & Exploration
Choice Boards
Special Event!
Scholastic BOGO Book Fair: May 31 - June 3
Where is it? It's held in the SDMS Library.
When will students visit the fair? Students will visit with their Language Arts class Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and have the opportunity to get some great deals on great books!
What are the hours? The hours are from 7:45 am until 3:30 pm every day except Friday. The book fair closes Friday at 1:00 pm.
Want to shop with your child to pick out books? Extended hours for family shopping will be on Thursday, June 2nd from 3:30 pm until 8:00 pm for family shopping.
Don't want to send cash with your child? Parents can set up an eWallet for students so they do not have to bring in cash. We look up their account at the register and they pay with the money you've deposited in the eWallet.
Don't have time to come in to shop? Families can also shop online through June 9 at our virtual fair and get access to all of Scholastic's great books!
Have a wonderful summer break! We will see you in the fall!
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May 16 - May 27
Reading Ideas
Social Issues Books
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Enrichment & Exploration
AAPI Heritage Month Choice Board
Memorial Day Choice Board
Be On the Lookout!
Summer Reading at SDMS
Be on the lookout for our summer reading resources, including our Summer Reading Webpage, Summer Reading Bitmoji Library and our Summer Reading Smore Newsletter!
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May 2 - May 13
Teaching and Learning
Virtual Author Visit and Cultural Assembly with Saadia Faruqui
Reading Ideas
Author Visit: Books by Saadia Faruqi
May the Fourth Star Wars Day!
Baseball Books
Enrichment & Exploration
May the Fourth Choice Board
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March 28 - April 29
Teaching and Learning
Pins for Peace! Service Learning in Action!
Reading Ideas
Ramadan, Eid, and Growing Up Muslim
Autism Awareness
Poetry Month
Holocaust Remembrance
Enrichment & Exploration
1,000 Paper Cranes
We are now in the process of stringing the cranes together so that they can be displayed in our building before eventually making their way to the Children's Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan.
April Choice Boards
After School Activities in the LMC
Spring Session Begins on April 4th!
Minecraft Mondays is Full for the Spring Session!
Game Wednesdays and Creative Writing Thursdays will continue in the meantime. Students can sign up for them through the Google Forms found on Ms. Poulos' Google Classroom page.
The After School Achievement Program Flier for the Spring Session can be found here as well.
Have a Wonderful Spring Break!
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MARCH 14 - MARCH 25
Teaching and Learning
Learning Chemistry through Minecraft Education Edition
Reading Ideas
Women's History Month Virtual Bookshelf
March Madness Virtual Bookshelf
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Virtual Bookshelf
Enrichment & Exploration
1,000 Paper Cranes
According to Japanese legend, the challenge of completing a string of 1,000 cranes is rewarded with a wish. The idea of 1,000 paper cranes is also now connected to the wish for peace.
After World War II and the detonation of the bomb in Hiroshima, Sadako Sasaki was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 12. While she was sick in the hospital, people began to send her origami cranes as a wish for her to be well again. After that, she began to fold origami cranes herself and set a goal of creating 1,000 paper cranes. After her death, Sadako became a symbol for doing good and bringing peace into the world.
Women's History Month Raffle!
Students can find the Google Form on Ms. Poulos' Library Google Classroom page (a new form will be posted each Monday, winners will be announced on Fridays).
If students need help, they can check the Women's History Month bulletin board located outside of the main office. Good luck!
March Choice Boards
After School in the LMC
Spring Session Begins on April 4th!
Minecraft Mondays Registration is Open for the Spring Session!
Board Game Wednesdays and Creative Writing Thursdays will continue in the meantime. Students can sign up for them through the Google Forms found on Ms. Poulos' Google Classroom page.
The After School Achievement Program Flier for the Spring Session can be found here as well.
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FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 11
Reading Ideas
Read Across America
Historical Fiction
Poetry
Enrichment & Exploration
St. Patrick's Day
Women's History Month
After School in the LMC
Game Day & Creative Writing
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FEBRUARY 7 - FEBRUARY 25
Teaching & Learning
Research-Based Argument Writing
Reading Ideas
Blind Date With a Book
World Read Aloud Day
Charles R Smith Jr.
Donna Barba Higuera
Julie Lee
Enrichment & Exploration
Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration in February of achievements by African American people and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Black History is U.S. History!
Additionally, learn more about Black History through our choice board. Delve into topics such as history, culture and important people.
Super Bowl
This year's Super Bowl between the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals will be held on Sunday, February 13th!
See if you can find some hidden links that Mrs. Zocco has added to the board!
Olympics
Presidents' Day
Explore our links and resources on our Presidents' Day Choice Board to learn about this holiday, our presidents and more!
After School Activities
Love a Book Cafe
Minecraft Mondays!
Programs and Events
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JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 4
World Read Aloud Day
Click on the presentation below to see the authors, their books and more information! Their books are available in the library and in our digital library Sora. The Wethersfield Library has also pulled a display of some of the titles.
Enrichment & Exploration
Lunar New Year
Groundhog Day
After School Activities in the LMC
Minecraft is full at this time
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JANUARY 10 - JANUARY 21
Reading Ideas
New Year, New You!
8th Grade - Memoirs
They have been visiting the library for book talks on some great memoirs as well as a review on searching and locating them in the library. Check out our memoir collections in both Destiny Discover and Sora for some great reading options!
7th Grade - Non Fiction
Explore our Non Fiction books in Destiny Discover as well as our ebooks and audiobooks in Sora!
Additionally, don't forget that we now have magazines available in Sora that are always available as another option for Non Fiction texts!
Connecticut Reads!
There will be a virtual launch with the authors of all three 2022 All CT Reads primary selections including Kat Leyh, author of Snapdragon, which is on the 2022 Middle School Nutmeg Nominee List. Each author will discuss their work and answer questions.
Author Virtual Book Launch Thursday, January 13: 6-7:30 pm
Register: https://cslib.libcal.com/event/8640349
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (1/17)
Virtual Bookshelf
Choice Board
Letter from a Birmingham Jail
Minecraft, Games & Creative Writing in the Library After School
Preregistration required for Minecraft Mondays: Registration Link
In addition, the library will be open for weekly sign ups for cards, puzzles, games and more on Wednesdays and creative writing on Thursdays.
Weekly Sign Ups for Game Wednesdays or Creative Writing Thursdays (students must sign up using their School Gmail account).
After School Programs at SDMS
A number of different activities will be offered after school beginning January 24, 2022.
Program Contact: Patrick Telman (860) 721-2981
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DECEMBER 20 - JANUARY 7
After School Activities in the LMC
We look forward to seeing you then!
Reading Ideas
Magazines in Sora!
The magazines are always available so you never have to wait to read! Check them out!
Click on the image to get to Sora's magazine collection
Virtual Book Shelves
Click on the image to get to our virtual bookshelves
Enrichment & Exploration
Holiday Choice Board
Click on the image to get to our choice board
StickTogether Picture
Check back again soon to help with our next StickTogether image!
Have a wonderful December Break! See you in 2022!
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DECEMBER 6 - DECEMBER 17
Teaching & Learning
Science Research
Seventh and eighth grade students are finishing up their research papers on renewable energy sources (7th) and human impact on the environment (8th). They learned and practiced many important skills such as: developing good paragraphs; incorporating different types of evidence to support their main ideas, such as facts, statistics, and quotes; elaborating and including explanations and their own thoughts on the topic; and using in-text citations and a final citations list.
Team Building in the Library
Crimson Team science students enjoyed a team building day in the library learning about Sitting Bull and creating a Rubik's Cube collaborative mosaic of his portrait. In addition, students could choose to explore other STEAM stations including: foldable book art, line coding with Ozobots, design patterns or structures with Keva Planks, or board games
Hour of Code
The Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify "code", to show that anybody can learn the basics, and to broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities.
After School Activities in the LMC
Every week, the Library Media Center will be hosting activities after school for students to sign up and participate in!
- Mondays are Maker Mondays which include STEAM related activities
- Wednesdays are Whimsical Wednesdays with a variety of activities and events
- Thursdays are Low/No Tech Thursdays where students can get a break from all the screen time and enjoy some board games, puzzles, cards and more!
Students should sign up via the Google form for the day's activity they want to participate in. Links can be found above or in Ms. Poulos' Google Classroom page. Space is limited to 20 students so interested students should act fast and sign up! Activities will go from 2:35 to 3:35 pm. Students should make arrangements to get home afterwards. If they need the late bus, they need to sign up for it before 1 pm on the day they are staying after.
Please reach out to Ms. Poulos (lpoulos@wethersfield.me) or Mrs. Zocco (tzocco@wethersfield.me) with any questions. Looking forward to seeing you then!
Mondays
Wednesdays
Thursdays
Reading Ideas
Magazines in Sora!
The magazines are always available so you never have to wait to read! Check them out!
Virtual Book Shelves
Enrichment & Exploration
Bill of Rights Day Choice Board
Click on the image to get to our choice board
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NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 3
November is Native American Heritage Month
Additionally, read some books through Destiny and Sora that were written by or about Native American People. Check out our Virtual Bookshelf below to see some options (click on the image).
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NOVEMBER 8 - NOVEMBER 19
Teaching & Learning
Alternative Energy Research
Human Impact Research
13 Colonies Research
Enrichment & Exploration
Thursday, November 11th is Veterans Day
Spotlight on Books
Events & Activities
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OCTOBER 25 - NOVEMBER 5
Teaching & Learning
7th Grade Alternative Energy Research:
Seventh grade students will be working with teachers and the library staff practicing the research process taking notes, citing sources, and writing informational paragraphs on one of four alternative energy sources: solar power, hydropower, wind power, or geothermal power
Spotlight on Books
Spooky Reads for October
Events & Activities
Janae Marks: Virtual Author Visit
After School Activities
Enrichment & Exploration
Diwali: November 4
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OCTOBER 11 - OCTOBER 22
National Bullying Prevention Month
In addition, October 20th is Unity Day. Please wear orange to come together in one giant message uniting our nation for kindness, acceptance and inclusion, and even the world, to visibly show that we believe no child should ever experience bullying.
Virtual Author Visit: Janae Marks!
Check out her website here and check out her books from our library in Sora or Destiny!
Indigenous Peoples' / Columbus Day
Check out our choice board to learn more about Indigenous Peoples, Columbus himself and the movement towards revising our history.
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SEPTEMBER 27 - OCTOBER 8
Thank You!
Be on the lookout in the Spring for our next Book Fair and thanks again for your support!
Banned Books Week
Check out our virtual bookshelf (click on the image) to see some books that have been banned or censored over the years. Some of them might surprise you!
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SEPTEMBER 13 - SEPTEMBER 24
Welcome!
For those of you who don't know, this newsletter is updated every few weeks with information from our SDMS Library Media Center. It will include upcoming events, virtual bookshelves, choice boards, recommendations and other important information. Keep checking back to see what's new!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our library staff: Mrs. Leslie Poulos, Library Media Specialist & Teacher Librarian (lpoulos@wethersfield.me) or Mrs. Taylor Zocco, Library Assistant (tzocco@wethersfield.me)
Fall Scholastic Book Fair!
Hours:
- Students will be visiting the Book Fair with their language arts classes.
- In addition to during the school day, the Book Fair will be open for a bit before and after school (7:45 am - 3:05 pm) for students.
Schedule for Student Visits
Students will be visiting the Book Fair with their language arts classes. They can bring money to purchase books directly on that day or parents can set up an e Wallet account for them.
- Seventh grade students will attend on Monday September 20 (Sections A,B,C,D) and on Tuesday September 21 (Section E).
- Eighth grade students will attend on Wednesday, September 22 (Section B) and Thursday, September 23 (Sections C, D, E, A)
Virtual Book Fair for Families
Unfortunately, due to restrictions on visitors, parents/guardians will not be able to come into the Book Fair but will be able to purchase books through this link to our Virtual Book Fair. The virtual book fair continues through September 25. You can sit with your child and pick up some books and order them online and still support the book fair.
E Wallet
E wallet is a safe cashless way for your students to shop the fair. A family member can create an account, add funds, and share the link for family or friends to contribute. At the time of checkout, the eWallet account can be looked up on the register or scanned for payment at the fair. Here is a video and the link for set up.
Book Fair Trailers: Book Highlights/Interactive Flyer
If you'd like to learn more about some of the featured books, watch these trailers or check out the interactive book fair flyer.
Virtual Book Shelves
Keep checking back to see what new reads we have in store for you!
Constitution Day
SDMS Summer Reading Results
SDMS Summer Reading By the Numbers
Top Summer Readers & Choice Board Participants!
Top Summer Readers:
Angelo F.
Sylvia L.
Lorelei F.
Siena G.
Olivia D.
Iris S.
Katelyn W.
Haley W.
Emily B.
Nolan S.
Tails & Tales Choice Board Participants:
Sylvia L.
Aaliyah T.
Gabriella D.
Chiara G.
Zachary H.
These students will be recognized with a letter home, a gift certificate to our upcoming book fair, and will be enshrined on a poster that will be hung in the library to be admired for years to come! Thanks for your great participation!
Library Orientations: Focus on Destiny Discover & Sora: Searching and Finding Books
To browse our collection and check out books, students can either use Sora, which is used for ebook and audiobooks, or Destiny Discover for print books.
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JUNE 7 - JUNE 14
SUMMER READING!
Check them out below! (Click on the images to follow the link)
Have a great Summer and we'll see you in the Fall! -- SDMS Library Staff
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MAY 24 - JUNE 4
Book Discussion: They Called Us Enemy by George Takei: May 26
- Sign up for the book group with this link or email Mrs. Zocco or Ms. Poulos
- Watch an interview with the author
- Put a book on hold in Destiny or borrow from Sora.
- The meeting is on Wednesday, May 26 at 4 p.m. via Google Meet. Information will be posted in the library classroom as well.
May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month!
On May 26, we'll be running a book discussion on They Called Us Enemy by George Takei.
Memorial Day
** Summer Reading Resources! **
We have released various Summer Reading Resources. Links to these resources are located below (click on the image). Check them out!
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MAY 10 - MAY 21
Eid al-Fitr Choice Board
Let's Talk Books: Wednesday, May 19th
Join us to talk about any great books you are reading or have read recently. This will be an informal gathering to just talk books and share recommendations. The discussion will be led by a student! The meeting is at 4:00 p.m. via Google Meet. Information will be posted on the Library Google Classrooms as well.
SDMS 2021 Nutmeg Nominee Selection
SDMS's favorite 2021 MS Nutmeg Nominee was...New Kid by Jerry Craft!
New Kid was also selected as this year's Middle School Nutmeg Award Winner!
Introducing the 2022 Middle School Nutmeg Award Nominees
Language Arts Connections
Have a question or need help? Contact our library staff, Ms. Poulos, Library Media Specialist/Teacher Librarian or Mrs. Zocco, Library Media Assistant.
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April 26 - May 7
May the Fourth
Project Lit Book Discussion: Wednesday, May 5th
Here is a short book blurb:
"Shortly before Halloween, Lucely and her best friend, Syd, cast a spell that accidentally awakens malicious spirits, wreaking havoc throughout St. Augustine. Together, they must join forces with Syd's witch grandmother, Babette, and her tubby tabby Chunk, to fight the haunting head-on and reverse the curse to save the town and Lucely's firefly spirits before it's too late"
If you are interested in reading the book and joining our discussion, click here and fill out the form! The discussion will be on Wednesday, May 5th. Students will be able to find the link to the Google Meet on their Library Google Classroom page on that date.
The book is available through Destiny Discover (please place a hold!)
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APRIL 5 - APRIL 23
April is National Poetry Month!
Additionally, we have a Poetry Choice Board where you can learn about famous poets and poems, create your own poetry and more!
And if you missed it, check out our Virtual Bookshelf inspired by April Fools Day! It has some great humor recommendations.
Check them out!
Eighth Grade Virtual Author Visit: Alan Gratz! April 20!
Check out his books in Destiny Discover or Sora.
Whimsical Wednesdays: Digital Escape Room or Game on April 21
Check Mrs. Poulos's Seventh Grade or Eighth Grade Library Google Classroom for the link that will be posted that day.
Earth Day
April is School Library Month
Holocaust Remembrance
Learn more about this horrific time in our history through both nonfiction and fiction books we have available through Destiny Discover and Sora.
Project Lit Book Discussion: April 7
If you are interested in reading the book and joining our discussion, click here and fill out the form! The discussion will be on Wednesday, April 7th at 4:00 p.m. Students will be able to find the link to the Google Meet on their Library Google Classroom page on that date.
The book is available through Destiny Discover (please place a hold!) or on Sora.
Ramadan
Learn more about this holy month through the resources provided on our Ramadan Choice Board!
2021 Middle School Nutmeg Nominees Voting is Open!
Here is the 2021 Middle School Nutmeg Flyer with short descriptions on each book.
It's not too late to read some of the nominees so you can have your voice heard in the selection of this year's Middle School Nutmeg Award Winner!
Click here to find our copies of the 2021 Nutmeg Nominees in Destiny Discover and in Sora
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MARCH 22 - APRIL 2
Library Events
Upcoming (Virtual) Author Visits!
On Wednesday, March 24th, authors Nora Raleigh Baskin, Gae Polisner and Tom Rogers will be meeting with our 7th grade students to discuss historical fiction writing. All three have written books that integrate the events of September 11, 2001 and many of our students are reading their books in their historical book clubs in language arts classes.
Additionally, on Thursday, March 25th, author Charles R. Smith will be visiting with our 8th grade students to perform some of his poems and talk about the craft of writing. Charles has written many poems and books about basketball, perfect timing for March Madness. He is a poet, short story writer, and novelist who will complement students understanding of literary analysis, the current 8th grade language arts unit.
Special thanks to SDMS PAC for funding these events!
Check out the author's books through Destiny Discover or on Sora:
- Charles R. Smith: Destiny
Whimsical Wednesdays: Hogwarts Digital Escape Room, March 24
Let's Talk Books: March 31
Book Discussion: Wednesday, April 7th
Here is a short book blurb:
Avid baker Zoe Washington receives a letter on her twelfth birthday from her biological father, who is in prison for a terrible crime. She isn't sure what to write back--and whether to believe him when he says he is innocent. How will she balance her baking internship with her quest to uncover the truth? Will she do what she believes is right, even if others disagree?
If you are interested in reading the book and joining our discussion, click here and fill out the form! The discussion will be on Wednesday, April 7th at 4:00 p.m. Students will be able to find the link to the Google Meet on their Library Google Classroom page on that date.
The book is available through Destiny Discover (please place a hold!) or on Sora.
Reading Suggestions/Ideas
American Library Association 2021 Youth Media Awards
Click on the covers to go to their Destiny page to place a hold.
Happy Reading!
All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys Soccer Team
Furia
Prairie Lotus
When You Trap A Tiger
Dancing at the Pity Party
How We Go To the Moon
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MARCH 8 - MARCH 19
Thank You, SDMS PAC!
LAST WEEK OF OUR VIRTUAL BOOK FAIR!
All purchases will help the SDMS Library earn Scholastic Dollars for shopping in the Scholastic catalog.
Here is the virtual book fair link! Shopping is open from March 1st until March 14th. Take advantage of the whole Scholastic catalog!
All books will be shipped directly home.
Book (only) Orders that are $25 and over will be shipped for free.
Whimsical Wednesday: March 10: Women's Suffrage-Themed Escape Room
In honor of Women's History Month, students can join with friends in small breakout rooms to go on the hunt for the original Declaration of Sentiments written by Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Check Mrs. Poulos's Seventh Grade or Eighth Grade Library Google Classroom for the link that will be posted that day.
Book Discussion: Wednesday, March 17th
Here is a short book blurb:
Middle school student Mila starts to experience unwanted hugs and comments from boys that make her feel uncomfortable. Is it just them being friendly and flirty even though it feels wrong? Should she report it? How will she learn to stand her ground?
If you are interested in reading the book and joining our discussion, click here and fill out the form! The discussion will be on Wednesday, March 17th at 2:00 p.m. Students will be able to find the link to the Google Meet on their Library Google Classroom page on that date.
The book is available through Destiny Discover (please place a hold!) or on Sora.
March Is Women's History Month!
Explore our choice board to learn more about some of the most famous and influential women in our history!
Women's History Month Virtual Bookshelves
Language Arts Connection: Grade 7: Historical Fiction
Language Arts Connection: Grade 8: Literary Analysis with Poetry & Short Stories
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FEBRUARY 22 - MARCH 5
Read Across America Week!
Students can also sign up to get a kit to make a creative bookmark.
VIRTUAL BOOK FAIR!
All purchases will help the SDMS Library earn Scholastic Dollars for shopping in the Scholastic catalog.
Here is the virtual book fair link! You can start shopping on March 1st and take advantage of the whole Scholastic catalog.
All books will be shipped directly home.
Book (only) Orders that are $25 and over will be shipped for free.
Books that will be available for purchase!
Scroll down to see just some of the books that will be available to buy at our virtual book fair!
There's something for everyone!
Sarah Darer Littman Virtual Author Visit
Interested in joining a book discussion about any of Sarah's books? Click the link below to sign up! Read any of her books and come to our discussion on Thursday, February 4 at 4:00 p.m.
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FEBRUARY 8 - FEBRUARY 19
Blind Date with a Book
Try out our Blind Date with a Book! Pick a genre, read the summaries underneath the books, then click on the book cover to find a link to it in Destiny Discover or Sora. Try out a new genre or find something new in a genre you love!
Interested in joining a book discussion?
Scroll through the form to see the books that we will be discussing (the date of each discussion is written right after the title and author). Feel free to participate in any book discussion that seems interesting to you!
Presidents' Day Virtual Bookshelf
Our virtual bookshelves contain slides on various topics. Scroll through to dig into books on a variety of subjects!
Additionally, check out our Inauguration Day Choice Board to explore resources on the day the president-elect becomes president!
Black History Month Choice Board
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JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 5
Checking Out Books from the SDMS Library
Remote students can email the library staff Mrs. Poulos or Mrs. Zocco to request that books be set aside and schedule a pick up in the main office during school hours.
Whimsical Wednesdays
Looking for Something New to Read?
The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier
Series available through Destiny Discover
Enola Holmes: The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer
Series available through Destiny Discover
Cirque du Freak: A Living Nightmare by Darren Shan
Series available through Destiny Discover
Super Bowl and Football Reads!
World Read Aloud Day (Virtual) Author Visit!
Black History Month
Black History Month Choice Board
Virtual Bookshelves
Fiction
NonFiction
Tutorials and Tech Tips
Citing Sources in NoodleTools
Sora Tip
Google Classroom Tip
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JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 22
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. Choice Board
MLK Jr. Virtual Bookshelves
MLK Jr. and Leadership (video)
Inauguration Day Choice Board
Non Fiction
Memoirs
They Called Us Enemy - George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven Scott
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind - William Kamkwamba, Bryan Mealer
I Am Malala - Malala Yousafzai, Patricia McCormick
Tutorials and Tech Tips
Need some help with Destiny Discover or Sora? Click on the images below to get the basics.
Remember, students can place holds on books in Destiny and the book will be delivered to their Language Arts classroom.
Looking for an eBook or downloadable audiobook through your Chromebook? Use Sora! You can also download the Sora App on a mobile device through your App store.
Need to clean out your Gmail? Check out the tutorial for deleting emails.
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JANUARY 4 - JANUARY 8
New Fiction!
Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson
The Language of Ghosts by Heather Fawcett
Forced into exile on an enchanted, moving island, ex-princess Noa Marchena has two missions: reclaim her family’s stolen throne and ensure that the dark powers her older brother, Julian, possesses don’t go to his head in the process. But between babysitting her annoying little sister, Mite, and keeping an eye on the cake-loving sea monster that guards the moving island, Noa has her hands full.
When the siblings learn that their enemies are searching for a weapon capable of defeating Julian—whose legendary spell weaving is feared throughout the kingdom—once and for all, they vow to get to it first. To everyone’s surprise, the key to victory turns out to be a long-lost magical language—and only Noa can speak it.
But what if by helping her brother, Noa ends up losing him?
Wishes and Wellingtons by Julie Berry
Be careful what you wish for ...
Maeve Merritt chafes at the rigid rules at her London boarding school for "Upright Young Ladies." When punishment forces her to sort through the trash, she finds a sardine tin that houses a foul-tempered djinni with no intention of submitting to a schoolgirl as his master.
Soon an orphan boy from the charitable home next door, a mysterious tall man in ginger whiskers, a disgruntled school worker, and a take-no-prisoners business tycoon are in hot pursuit of Maeve and her magical discovery. It'll take all of her quick thinking and sass to set matters right. Maeve Merritt is one feisty heroine you won't soon forget.
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!
NonFiction Suggestions
Free Lunch
Election Manipulation: Is America's Voting System Secure?
Humans vs. Artificial Intelligence
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SDMS Library Media Center
Email: lpoulos@wethersfield.me
Website: https://wps.wethersfield.me/schools/sdms/library-media-center
Location: 551 Silas Deane Hwy, Wethersfield, CT 06109, USA
Phone: 860-571-8300
Twitter: @sdmslibrary
Silas Deane Middle School Teacher/Librarian