In May, I wrote a post on my blog about the joy and excitement that was created when I read aloud to my students. My students were held captive for 5-10 minutes a day by a Lemony Snickett book, and they loved it! I realized then, how important reading aloud was to creating readers.
So when I came across the Global Read Aloud project, it was a no-brainer! A global project where everyone reads one book, and discusses it with other students, all over the world. Amazing concept! And if there had been any hesitation on my part, the methods of discussion would have hooked me, Skype, Edmodo, Twiducate , and any other web 2.0 tech tools, I was salivating!
I have to admit, I had never read “Tuck Everlasting”, (gasp!), so being the responsible teacher that I am, I bought the book and I read it in two days. Kudos to those teachers who chose a book that will offer my students so many chances to THINK! And, thanks to DonorsChoose, each of my darlings will have their very own copy, and believe me, that is exciting!
The best part of GRA is that my students are going to realize that a lot of people, all over the world, enjoy reading. I believe reading this book will destroy the misconception that reading is boring. Reading will become cool again.:) Visions of my students actively involved in discussions with students all over the world makes me delirious with joy. Giving them a chance to have their opinions heard, as they respond to the opinions of others, makes me, happy. 🙂
I have already connected with a teacher. She and I skped a few days ago and excitedly, (I know I am overusing that word) shared ideas. Another plus to GRA. I am growing my PLN, and who knows who else I will meet on this journey? Pernille has set up an Edmodo group for the teachers and one for the students. I can’t wait to check out what our kids talk about among themselves!
Anyway, this newbie is excited thrilled! My class will read aloud, globally, and realize there is a world outside of New Castle, DE that they can explore!
Lisa Mims
5th grade teacher
New Castle, Delaware
Lisa Mims
5th grade teacher
New Castle, Delaware
The Global Read Aloud 