Library Program Supports Literacy
Engage the Community & Enhance Student Achievement
Leading The Way Towards An Effective & Collaborative Literacy Program
In practice the "key to an exemplary library program is the teacher-librarian’s ability to be an effective teacher, providing educational support and leadership through partnering and collaboration, while finding opportunities for integration and cross-curricular connections" (“Exemplary School Libraries in Ontario.” Klinger, D.A.; Lee, E.A.; Stephenson, G.; Deluca, C.; Luu, K.; 2009, p.6)
A Teacher-Librarian Understands The Learning Environment & Values Co-Planning/Teaching
(The Magazine of the Ontario School Library Association, p.14).
(PowToon Presentation adapted from the California Library Association).
Interactive Read- Alouds (Model Reading)
(Image adapted from Clipart)
Shared Reading
I would highly recommend investing in big books or e-books (Tumblebooks) that can be projected in order to enhance visibility.
(Image adapted from Abella-Caglicubukcu-Haynes-Laysous-Peters-Stokes Wikispace)
Guided Reading
(Image adapted from Keylinks - Scholastic Education)
Independent Reading
This independent reading time promotes reading for information and enjoyment. It is important to support students in developing a love for reading. Creating a comfortable and quiet environment to practice reading "just right books" not only fosters self-confidence but develops fluency as well.
Please note that the library resources and content (books and e-books) should reflect the interests of students. For instance, multilingual and cultural content.
Shared Writing (Modeling)
For writing instruction to be effective it must be "built on the active participation of learners in the co-creation of their learning" (Ministry of Education, 2013, Paying Attention to Literacy, p.5).
(Image adapted from Pinterest - Gene Welsh's Interactive/Shared Writing Activities)
Interactive Writing
Interactive Writing involves the student in creating the written text. A "shared pen" creates opportunities for students to demonstrate correct spelling and grammatical structures. I would take advantage of the interactive SmartBoard and SmartInk Notebook's software to produce rich texts that showcase student's comprehension and learning.
TLs would benefit from introducing the latest digital tools and integrate them into the school literacy program. Please refer to the attached link to learn more about the latest version of SmartInk.
(Image adapted from SchoolDesign.com)
Independent Writing
Students are able to take ownership of their learning and write within their zone of proximal development. This writing practice may consist of a reflective piece (journal), a response to a social media post, research paper or any written act of pleasure that strengthens the sequencing of text. The literacy goal is to "develop a sense of self-efficacy and a...life-long" interest in writing (Ministry of Education, 2013, Paying Attention to Literacy, p.3).
(Image adapted from THINKSTOCK)
A School Library Program that Supports Literacy
As per the Paying Attention to Literacy: K-12 document the Teacher Librarian must "foster literacy learning communities and work collaboratively in a coordinated [and] purposeful way to improve literacy development for all learners" (Ministry of Education, 2013, Paying Attention to Literacy, p.4). Being competent of the digital age and the tools/strategies that provide meaningful and relevant learning opportunities to 21st century learners is the key to instilling an effective literacy program. These learning opportunities involve the student in participating and connecting with others (e.g., e-communities, social media, wikis and various technological platforms).
An inclusive learning environment that reflects an inquiry based model "fosters positive attitudes and beliefs about learning and literacy development. [This safe learning commons] ensures [that] all learners see themselves and their interests, values, cultures and points of view represented in the" curriculum (Ministry of Education, 2013, Paying Attention to Literacy, p.6).
The Learning Commons supports the 21st Century Learner
Teacher, Jessica Wilcox, Speaks of the Value of Collaboration
What Are Your Thoughts?
I look forward to your response and can be contacted via the Discussion Posts, Internal Messaging system via Desire2Learn or via email.
Email: scosta@scdsb.on.ca
Website: www.togetherforlearning.ca