How the library can be used to support the curriculum by incorporating technology (with limited access to computers), literature, Common Core Curriculum Standards, and current brain research to keep the learning atmosphere developmentally appropriate through the use of centers, movement, music and art.

Better Than P.E. . . Making the Library a Hub of Active Learning in a K-4 School

Michele E. Carroll, NBCT Teacher LibrarianForest Heights Elementary Harrison, AR PART 2

AAIM 2013

Centers

• 3 Types of Centers– Library Media Skills

– Thematic Unit Activities

• Integrating art, music, math, social studies, science and language arts

–

– Free Choice • Games, blocks, farm

manipulatives and a perennial favorite “Mr. Potato Head”http://www.upstartpromotions.com/ups

tart/The-Centered-School-Library-Engaging-Every-Learner-with-Library-Skills-Centers-c_131938/

By Cari S. Young. 57 pp.$15.95 ISBN 978-1-60213-056-2 2011

3rd grade exploration of light and shadows during a research unit on light.

Library Skills Centers

• I can make a wish list. • I can read magazines.

Library Skills Centers

• I can put books in ABC order. • I can put alphabet cards and call numbers in the correct order.

Library Skills Centers• I can sort titles by fiction and

non-fiction.• I can spell library words.

Library Skills Centers

• I can listen to stories. • I can recite the alphabet in order.

Library Skills Centers

I can write about my favorite book and tell others why they should read it!

Library Skills Centers

• I can be a “Guide Word Guru” . • I can find synonyms in a thesaurus.

Thematic Centers: Art in the Library

The Legend of the Poinsettia, by Tomie dePaolaThe Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams

Tiny Snail by Tammy Carter Bronson

Owl Babies by Martin Waddell

Thematic Centers: Art in the Library

Autumn UnitMouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh

Lucky Beans by Becky Birtha

Community Helpers Unit

Recognizing Arkansas illustrator, Rich Davis

Thematic Genre Studies:

Dramatic Play in the Library1st grade: Little Red Hen

Kindergarten: Humpty Dumpty

Thematic CentersDramatic Play in the

Library

“4 Young Frogs” poem (above)

“5 Little Tadpoles” (left)

Thematic Genre Studies:Tall Tales Reader’s

Theater

Thematic Units:Phonics in the

LibrarySpelling words that rhyme with frog on the Leapmat®

Matching uppercase “frogs” to lowercase lily pads.

Games in the Library

Games are important for teaching communication and social skills.

Games in the Library

Lots of sharing and taking turns occurring!

Puzzles in the Library

We did it!

Completing a large puzzle provides an opportunity to work on problem solving skills, collaboration and gives students a sense of accomplishment

Building in the Library

Building a marshmallow bridge after a unit on Builders and reading Pop’s Bridge by Eve Bunting.

Sometimes building is for fun!

• Gilbert, Jaesook L., Helene A. Harte, and Carol Patrick. "Purposeful Play Leads to School Readiness." Dimensions of Early Childhood Vol 39.1 (2011): 29-35. Web

• Medina, John. Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School. Seattle, WA: Pear, 2008. Print.

• Young, Cari S. The Centered School Library: Engaging Every Learner with Library Skills Centers. Madison, WI: Upstart, 2011. Print

Sources