Both grades do more in the LMC than check books out to read. The overall goal for 4th grade is to become efficient users of the LMC. Towards that end, we have worked on learning the locations and signage through a mapping activity. Now, we have been introduced to the catalog and learned how to complete a search and how to hold or recommend a book. Along the way, students have been introduced to the concept of genre, with many classes assigning a specific genre for students to explore during the month of October.
Fifth grade has a slightly different goal: to become capable finders and users of information. We have been attacking this goal by breaking down the research process into small steps and moving slowly through them. With each step, students have had to learn and practice new skills. For example, students reviewed how to locate information in an encyclopedia while they were gathering some basic background knowledge on the topic they have chosen. So far, they are on step 3 of a 6 step process and are working on using key words to find information electronically. Soon, they will be reading and taking notes.
A lot of learning is taking place while students are in the LMC. Feel free to stop by and see us in action some time.
