Instructional Strategy
Robin Clark
One strategy that I like to use with my classroom is an “author study”. When I was first introduced to author studies, I thought “there is no way kindergarteners can get this”! But, to my surprise, they love it!
I try to carefully research potential authors to present to my students. Some children’s authors either have not written enough books to be popular, or have not shared a lot of personal information with the public. For example, I love the work of Maurice Sendak. As a child, I loved Where the Wild Things Are. But, after reading about him I found that he is mostly an illustrator, not an author. He has actually written just a small amount of books, but has illustrated hundreds. So, I did not choose Maurice Sendak for one of these studies.
Instead, I’ve chosen authors like Eve Bunting; Tomie dePaola; Patricia Polacco; and Kevin Henkes.
I begin these author studies with a power point presentation. I try to find fascinating information about the author; what he/she was like growing up; why he/she wanted to write; and what topics they like to write about. I always add fun, colorful clip art and personal images to catch their attention.
I usually study Eve Bunting around this time of year. She has written lots of stories about Halloween. She has also written about tough subjects such as homelessness; racism; and prejudice. When I first put her information together, I was surprised that she was not also an illustrator! All of her books have beautiful artwork, but she has never illustrated one of them!
And, this is a good time of year to begin the author studies. The children have become settled into their daily routines; usually adhere to the classroom rules; and can work together with partners.
After I introduce a new author, I allow the children to look at some of that author’s work. Many times I will have already read a story or two from that particular author, and can bring those back to review.
As we read, usually one story each day, we compare the stories. We create a chart stating how the stories were different. We decide if the characters were the same, like with Kevin Henkes’ mouse tales. We talk about emotions and how the characters may have felt. We decide if there was a problem and if so, how did that problem get resolved. Many times I allow the children to work with their partners to discover more about how they interpreted the book. I allow them to be art smart and draw their perception of the story. I am always amazed by the work I receive!
After the two-week period is over, I display all of the author’s books that we read. We gather in groups, according to likes and dislikes, and talk about why we liked our choices so much.
There are many activities that can be combined within the author study. I usually try to incorporate the main literacy categories: comprehension; retell; rhyming; alike and different; and concept naming within each study. Some books are easier than others, but it can be done.
This study is just one way that I have found to engage my younger students and get them excited about reading different types of books.