Library Orientation

Today, all my students completed library orientation. Using a library, school or public, has become a dying "art." So many of us use our computers and the Internet for everything, we forget how valuable a collection made specifically for the right population can be.

In class, we discussed the benefits of public libraries, what they actually contain, and what determines size. We answered 3 essential questions:

1. What else, besides books, is in a library?

2. Is there more than 1 kind of library?

3. What are the 2 main types of books?

We will use the library in our school often, so being aware of what it looks like, how it's set up, and why it contains what it does is vital to using it well. There is an entire section of the state core on library skill (using reference material, using functional, informational texts, and making good judgement on reliable information), and, of course, these skills are also tested on the Basic Skills Competency Test.

Someday, when I grow up, I want to be a librarian. Teaching is my dream job, but I feel the lure of all those BOOKS!!!

The English Binder...

Today, I handed out all the inserts to make the dividers for the English binder. Students should have collected them (in order) in class. As of today, they are as organized as *I* know how to make them.

It was also picture day, today. Even though they didn't all have money, they should all have had their photos taken for their ID cards. How nice it will be to have them with ID cards, Internet Acceptable Use Policy stickers, and a good student calendar!

We'll also be handing out student planners (their covers, now spelled properly) will have all the policies as well as the official school calendar (which is also available online at the school's website.)

Tomorrow, my A-day students will get to meet the substitute who will cover my classes while I'm gone on maternity leave. Pat Johnson has 23+ years of experience, and she's also an inspiring teacher. She also has a Master's of Reading Education, so that will give my students a great experience. I hope the students really enjoy her.

Another week down! My, how the time flies when I'm having fun!