From: Lisa Von Drasek <lisav>
Date: Wed, 25 Aug 2004 20:38:40 -0400

I do understand your point and am not making light of your concern. I did have a fourth grader who raised her hand and said "No offense, but I've already read Despereaux and I would rather read my book now. (a Mary Kate and Ashley series novel) I took that teachable moment to explain about why this book was chosen, aural vocabulary and the ability to glean new understanding on second and third reads. I reminded them that this was my fifth time through and this amazing book still held my attention. Of course this is only five to ten minutes of the period so probably not too painful to the uninterested. We also allow our students to occupy their hands while I read aloud. I pass out pipe cleaners, I've encouraged them to bring their knitting or they can doodle. The only rules are that they don't make noise or distract others. I also give them 5 seconds to find a comfortable place on the floor and they can lay down or sit anyway that they want as long as they are in my sightlines, are not under anything, or touching anyone else.

I also received a course evaluation comment that stated that " I didn't come to graduate school to be read aloud to" I suppose she was in the washroom when I explained why I was reading aloud and the benefits to her classroom practice. Lisa

Lisa Von Drasek, Children's Librarian Bank Street College of Education School for Children Pre-K- 8 610 West 112th St NY NY 10025

lisav at bnkst.edu

212 875 4452
Received on Wed 25 Aug 2004 07:38:40 PM CDT