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What
are Book Talks?
During
book talks, students discuss with classmates books they have read,
heard or "discovered." The shared selections may be ones
read to them by a librarian, babysitter, parent, Elder, relative
or older student, or they may be books students have read themselves.
Book talks can be scheduled during daily shared language sessions.
What
is its purpose?
- to
focus students' attention on enjoyable and informative print
- to
provide opportunities for students to share responses to a book,
and to exchange ideas with peers
- to
entice students to read peer-recommended selections
- to
develop personal interpretations and responses to literature by
reflecting upon, discussing and evaluating selections
How
can I do it?
- The
teacher demonstrates book talks before asking students to participate.
- Students
prepare in advance to talk about books of their choosing.
- Students
talk about the book or briefly summarize it, read an interesting
or exciting part, show illustrations, dress like one of the book's
characters, talk and/or act like one character, or answer questions
about the book.
- Listeners
are encouraged to ask questions.
- Short
sessions should be scheduled daily, with only a few participants
sharing.
- Initial
participation should be voluntary.
How
can I adapt it?
- Students
can participate in class or school book fairs.
- Older
students can read to and talk about books with younger students.
- Teacher-student
conferencing about books can occur.
- Teachers
and teacher-librarians could use this activity to introduce selections
for literature study or to introduce recently acquired resources.
- Teachers
and students could collaboratively critique books for bias in
print and in illustrations.
Assessment
& Evaluation Considerations
- Monitor
students' interest in books.
- Note
students who do not participate -- they may not be familiar with
books or may not have sufficient access to books and resources.
- Conference
students about their participation if they are reluctant to share
comments and questions with the class.
Teacher
Resources
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