Daily Book Boosts
My favorite part of the day is to see and hear what students in my class are reading for enjoyment during SSR time. This lesson encompassed what I enjoy about SSR time and increasing the book talk in class. Each day at the end of their independent reading time, students give Book Boosts, one-minute raves about books they’ve read. Students select a book that they really enjoyed and then give a one-minute talk that generates interest in the book but does not give away the book’s ending. Students can boost their books in a variety of ways, including creating alternate book covers, designing posters or flyers, or making promotional bookmarks. Have students take turns giving book boosts with two students giving a Book Boost each class day. These Book Boosts are easy ways to suggest a multitude of titles to students, and they act as a way for students to have something to think about as they read.
Some materials the students can use are book review forms (provided on lesson plan site). The book review forms are kept in a notebook in the classroom for students to use as a reference. Creating a book cover on RWT website can also be a way for students to demonstrate the best part of the book. Bookmarks and flyers can also be advertised in the classroom to encourage the books.
The best part about this lesson is that it is one lesson that initially lasts 50 minutes. After that 2 students a day are selected to do 1 minute book boosts per day. I think this is manageable and will really increase interest and thinking skills. I want to go try Book Boosts in my class as soon as possible. (Becky)