Routman’s Chapter 5: Organizing an Outstanding Classroom
Library caught my attention and is an ongoing goal (or struggle – whichever I call
it) that I have for my classroom and beyond...for years. Organization, in general, is a weakness for
me. I struggled with organizing files as
I worked for a real estate agent during college (not that I was ever shown nor
told “how” it needed to be done a certain way and everyone’s way is different –
which makes a classroom library meaningful to each teacher and class it services). Well, now it’s files at school and home, my closets,
and even files on my computer. Needless
to say, organization is a need that I NEED help with so I was happy to look at
this chapter and really reading ‘again’ reminded me of what I already
knew. NOW, I need to take time or make
the time to organize it myself and with my students. I want my students to understand the importance
of maintaining an “outstanding” classroom library because it teaches so many
things at an early age and it takes time to make it and keep it going
successfully. Routman says, “When I am
in classrooms with rich libraries created and maintained by the teacher and
students, grand enthusiasm for reading and talk about books permeate every
aspect of the curriculum.” Teaching the “hows”
and “whys” books go in a certain area, are a certain genre, need a specific
place/label, etc. entails a list of ELA standards in the most practical way. In knowing the purpose of the hows and whys I
acknowledge the importance of organization and its place in my classroom; and
Routman reiterating the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ remind me that I need to make the
time to finish my expectations of what an outstanding classroom library is for
my students. The organization of an
outstanding classroom library teaches students life skills really and it starts
with literacy and with the importance of books and care that I model for my students. My classroom library is available but not “outstanding”
and my goal is to be happy with it…to make it outstanding.
I love involving students in the organization of classroom libraries! It definitely helps give them ownership as well as a realization of what books are available. If often leads to great conversations that can inspire motivation to read. Sounds like the perfect thing to do mid-year as a New Year's resolution!
ReplyDeleteI struggle to keep on top of organization because I often run out of time!! Using your students to help organize and maintain your library is a great solution because it takes the burden off of you and keeps them invested in their own classroom library!
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