When organizing a classroom, new teachers need to focus on the classroom library. This is a vital part of the classroom where learning will take place each and every day. This is the place where teachers can pull out a book at a moment’s notice to highlight a topic or concept during a lesson and a place where students can go to indulge an interest in a new topic. Here are a few guidelines for building a good classroom library.
Book Reading Levels to Have Available in the Classroom Library
When setting up a classroom library, it is important to have below, at and above grade level books available for students to choose from. Given the mix of abilities in classrooms today, especially those in inclusion classrooms, teachers need to have a healthy mix of books for all students to be able to read.
When teaching in an inclusion classroom, teachers should include books that are several years below grade level available for students to choose from. Likewise, in a gifted classroom, or if a gifted student is in a class, there should be books several years above grade level for students to choose from as well.
Book Genres to Include in the Classroom Library
When gathering books to include in a classroom library, it is vital that a new teacher include books from several genres. While the popular children’s books may be an easy choice, these books will not appeal to every student in the classroom. Additionally, teachers need to include books that will stretch student’s minds and introduce them to new ideas.
Important genres to be sure to include in the classroom library include fiction, including historical fiction, non-fiction, biographies, science fiction and poetry. Remember that many of these books can be chosen to read aloud to the class, so also include classic stories and chapter books that students may not choose to read.
Inclusion Books to Include in the Classroom Library
When setting up a classroom library, it is helpful to include a few books that will specifically target issues that may come up in class. For example, in an inclusion classroom, it will be wise to include books such as Eagle Eyes, Houdini’s Gift, and The Don’t-give-up Kid, by Jeanne Gehret [Verbal Images Press, September, 2009].
These books provide unique glimpses into the lives of children, one with ADD and one with a reading disability. While readers learn what it is like to live with these particular disabilities, children, parents and teachers will also learn important tips on how to cope with the effects of a disability on their lives. Find out more about special education books for children.
New teachers need to spend time building and organizing their classroom library so that their students have a wide range of books to choose from. Providing books at several levels and a variety of genres is the starting point for a great classroom library.
Related Information:
Learn how to utilize the classroom library.
Find out how to inspire students with classroom layout.
Jennifer Wagaman - Jennifer is a mother of 2 and has both public, private and administrative experience in the education field.
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