Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Picture Books for Adolescents? YES! YES! YES!




Is it important for students to read from a variety of texts? Yes!
Do visuals support English Language Learners and all students to better comprehend text? Yes!
Do Middle School students respond better to shorter reading assignments and choice? Yes!
Are there more picture books being written on sophisticated content? Yes!
Should you read aloud to Middle Schoolers? Yes!

Should you incorporate picture books into your instruction?

Well, you know by now what my answer is. I am a big fan. However, you do not have to take my word for it.
Check out positions taken by the International Reading Association and the National Middle School Association.
http://www.nmsa.org/Publications/MiddleSchoolJournal/Articles/September2006/Article4/tabid/1017/Default.aspx

The use of picture books in reading, writing, and all content areas can serve multiple functions. They can provide enhancement to the textbook. Picture books can give students unique and more immediate perspective on an issue.
They can provide a model of writing craft. Just because they have pictures does NOT mean they are for babies. Quite the contrary!

Convinced yet? Do a bit more reading on the topic. Check out some lessons that teachers have done with picture books.
Start with a subject that might be a bit dry or conceptually challenging and hunt down a related picture book. Start with a picture book you love and read it aloud with gusto!

What are you waiting for??!








http://www.amazon.com/How-Hole-Other-Side-World/dp/0064432181/ref=pd_sim_b_3

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