What Have We Learned So Far?

     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.

Back in the Swing

     The first full week of school is almost over, and we are definitely back in the swing here in the Library Media Center.  All students had an opportunity to get into the LMC the very first week of school and get some books checked out and start reading.  Regular weekly classroom visits started the second week with a quick review for the 5th graders and and orientation activity for the 4th graders. 5th grade has started a research project, and 4th grade is currently working on getting to know this library with a mapping activity.  We will continue with those weekly lessons for the 1st trimester; weekly checkout visits will continue throughout the year.
     Students often ask if they get graded on what we do in the LMC.  The short answer is, "Yes!"  While students don't receive a separate library grade, I do track their progress and update the teachers on how they are doing.  Many of the classroom teachers will roll the scores for LMC activities into a subject area grade.  After the first trimester, I try to work with the classroom teacher as much as possible to support what is being done in the classroom with what we are doing in the LMC, mainly through cooperative projects.  When that happens, I do grade part of the project, as well.
     One thing I am really trying to stress this year is that students are not limited to one visit to the LMC per week.  All students are welcome to come to the LMC individually, with a pass from their teacher.  Many teachers provide time in their schedules for students to come down independently and get new books.  Here at Meadowview, we really want to see students become increasingly more independent in their LMC use, so if your son or daughter is feeling they can only get here once a week, please just have them ask their classroom teacher when a good time would be for them to come down on their own.
     We have had a great start so far.  We look for that to continue throughout the year.

Virtual Tour

Here is a podcast that some of the students put together to show off the LMC and all it offers.