#NHCSchat Archive
#NHCSchat is a monthly twitter chat for, about and by educators in New Hanover County, North Carolina. #NHCSchat is an opportunity for teachers, administrators and other educators in southeastern NC to grow and develop their personal learning network (PLN) by connecting to other educators in our district and around the world. This monthly chat will create a forum for NHCS educators to gather virtually around the common interest of providing the best possible learning experience for students in our district. Chat topics will vary but will focus on best practices for teaching and learning in the digital age and will be moderated primarily by NHCS educators.
Wednesday June 8, 2016
Our co-hosts tonight are from ! We are so excited to have them lead tonight’s !
Thx for joining us for ! Tonight’s topic is: Summer Reading: Literacy For All, All Year Long.
Please tell us a little about yourself. Share your name, your school, grade & what you teach. Don’t forget to use the hashtag !
Hi I'm Jennifer. Lead School Library Media Coordinator, Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and Resident Troublemaker. :)
I'm Jeannie Timken, Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist with NHCS.
Susan Hitt here! 9-12 ELA lead & STAE coordinator
Hey , Bev here from ! I teach 2nd grade. Looking forward to chatting and learning together tonight.
Woo hoo! Glad to see you here!
Hi. Kristina Carpenter here. Media Specialist at MCW
We will be following the Q1, A1 format for tonight’s . Get ready! Our first question is coming up!
Sean Gould here, ESL Lead
I'm Brandy Conley, ESL teacher at Castle Hayne Elementary and Holly Shelter Middle.
Katie-lead teacher for secondary math and sci!
Yay! Glad you are here. https://t.co/fyq2O2Nkmi
I'm Brandy Conley, ESL teacher at Castle Hayne Elementary and Holly Shelter Middle.
Yay! Glad to see your face (virtually!)
Maureen Hoffman-Wehmeier, 7th grade ELA, IN
A1: I remember LOTS of trips to the public library. Something I continue to do as an adult during summer vacation.
Glad to have you join us!
A1 one summer I set a goal to read every book in the public library…didn’t quite make it, but I tried!
A1. I owned few books as a child, so the public library played a vital role in connecting me w/reading material in the summer.
Cyndy bliss principal Castle Hayne
A1 I loved reading during summer vacation so I try to promote reading as fun and something that I love and choose to do.
A1: I spent many weeks on my grandparents' farm every summer so books were my summer adventures. I could go anywhere!
A1 I was a book nerd.Was always reading more than 1 book at a time!Loved all genres and still do. Share my love of reading w my Ss
A1. A lack of access to books in my own home, drives my desire to make sure all Ss have books to read over the summer.
A1: With my kid starting kinder this year, I just began taking him to the L for books that he chooses vs the ones I buy for him.
I <3 Book Nerds! https://t.co/rQtXB8vjQS
A1 I was a book nerd.Was always reading more than 1 book at a time!Loved all genres and still do. Share my love of reading w my Ss
A1. As a tchr I let Ss checkout books from my classroom lib over the summer. As a SLMC I did the same from the school's library.
A1: As a kid, I enjoyed living with the characters in books and creating the movies in my mind. Still do. https://t.co/GEOtaOmDGj
Robert from Los Angeles. Middle school English. Happy to join!
Love that some of our districts libraries will be open to Ss this summer. https://t.co/7wlhqr2G9q
A1. A lack of access to books in my own home, drives my desire to make sure all Ss have books to read over the summer.
Yay! Let me know when you’re ready for book recommendations. :) https://t.co/fZPlc7ztbJ
A1: With my kid starting kinder this year, I just began taking him to the L for books that he chooses vs the ones I buy for him.
A1: I didn't have neighbors to play with, so I read all summer as a child. I was the kid who hid under my blanket at night to read
https://t.co/mGEGFrYiEH
A1: With my love for books, I read pretty much the same amount during the year as I do (and did) during the summer. :)
A1 I had to read over summer but could read what I chose to read.
Question 2 will be up in just 1 minute!
A1. Confession: I never read a(n entire) book assigned for schl until 11th grade. As a T/SLMC I emphasize authentic choice for Ss.
I love this story! https://t.co/Z0ndM2GTzm
A1: I didn't have neighbors to play with, so I read all summer as a child. I was the kid who hid under my blanket at night to read
A1 I was always a voracious reader as a kid, but when I discovered Agatha Christie's mysteries, I was hooked! I read all 80 of 'em
Agreed! It's okay to put a book down and pick up again later.
A1 book mobile would pull into empty lot once a month in town.
how excited he was when I took him and I felt like mom of the year that I waited so long! Def will need recs!
A1. Choice = crucial. Research continues to show the detrimental effects of standardized reading prgrams. https://t.co/tSuCctSnzs
A1: Binge reading Stine's Fear Street books. So predictable, but it was fun for me. I get my own kid to read what interests him
My mom took me to the library a lot in the sumer. During the school year, I was always motivated by Pizza Hut's Book It program.
I’m always excited to hear about books that hook readers! That’s quite an accomplishment! https://t.co/nF29DF6rBH
A1 I was always a voracious reader as a kid, but when I discovered Agatha Christie's mysteries, I was hooked! I read all 80 of 'em
Me too! Loved earning those personal pan pizzas:-)
A2 lack of transportation to take advantage of summer library programs
A2: I am about to sound REALLY old, but having access to too much can sometimes be detrimental - tech, tv, video games...
A2: I heard from my resident MS S this morning that kids are discussing summer Netflix viewing lists - not reading lists.
A2. Research shows access to books over the summer plays a critical role in reducing Ss reading gap.. https://t.co/koXaSOlXoo
My mom took me to the library a lot in the summer. During the school year, I was always motivated by Pizza Hut's Book It program.
A2 I think it is sometimes hard for students to develop a reading habit when no one else in there family has one -esp over summer
Oh My Gosh I loved those too! This program is still available. I always use at the BOY with my Ss. https://t.co/vBgKCk8Zye
One of my college professors was appalled when I later confessed I had no time to read very assigned book! https://t.co/slpTyBU2Hc
A1. Confession: I never read a(n entire) book assigned for schl until 11th grade. As a T/SLMC I emphasize authentic choice for Ss.
A2. Summer reading loss accounts for at least 80% of the reading achievement gap by 9th grade. https://t.co/39yYi06rNo
A2 digital distractions esp. unmonitored
You seemed to have turned out okay. ;-) https://t.co/d26kU7ZuGM
One of my college professors was appalled when I later confessed I had no time to read very assigned book! https://t.co/slpTyBU2Hc
A1. Confession: I never read a(n entire) book assigned for schl until 11th grade. As a T/SLMC I emphasize authentic choice for Ss.
A2. Studies show a connection between summer reading loss in low income elem Ss and graduation rates. https://t.co/39yYi06rNo
A2 kids are busy too! summer camp, traveling, staying with babysitter/family
This is so true! https://t.co/aGojWD2liW
A2 kids are busy too! summer camp, traveling, staying with babysitter/family
A2: Maybe a spin on old sum reading lists that we had for Eng class, but make them choice-based??
I agree with Sean. Also lack of transportation to the public library and available books in homes
Who’s ready for Question 3?
A2. Reading just 5-6 books over the summer can eliminate summer reading loss among for middle grade Ss. https://t.co/VwAvswtQiL
A2: Video games &lots of other digital distractions as well as traveling. A lot of kids go to day care now filled with activities.
a little bit goes a long way!
Tell folks to pull over when they pass a public librbary!
Yes! So true! https://t.co/rHwxi7JNdG
A2 I think it is sometimes hard for students to develop a reading habit when no one else in there family has one -esp over summer
I was going to tweet the same thing! There are so many other things that many students focus on now.
A2 Peer influence is huge.
Alix Woznick middle school librarian in Beverly, MA dropping in
A2 I want summer to be about relaxing, reflecting & rejuvenation for kids. All year I convince them reading is FUN. Hope some read
A2. Or… harness the power of social media to grow reading communities. Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat bookclubs = awesome.
A3. I <3 this question BIG. Making sure ALL of our Ss have access to books (they WANT to read) all year long, is everyone's job!
A3: Sharing reading lists & informal book talks. I'm finding that the struggle to encourage only increases as students get older.
A3. The NHCS Summer Library Programs are providing Ss access to books and activities all summer long! https://t.co/zHYmJKcJJp
Welcome! We’re glad to have you as a part of the conversaton! https://t.co/PjxEaQaaCW
Alix Woznick middle school librarian in Beverly, MA dropping in
A3: I just saw Lindsay Kahrs on WECT promoting the summer book program!
A3 Sending my Ss home w some leveled books, library schedule, login card for Raz kids, & this https://t.co/Qd51uKD6r0
A2 My 8th grades just finished Roll of Thunder. Many said they'll check out the 9 prequels/sequels this summer! Got 'em hooked!
A3: Check out the summer online program. It looks awesome for kids (and families) that like history and adventure.
A2: I believe accessing books is more difficult for children in the summer, especially for those who parents don't model reading
A3: I've promised my own kids a trip to and freedom to peruse and choose.
Yes. So what can we do make sure they have access during the summer? That’s the question. :) https://t.co/TsrEW0hF8j
A2: I believe accessing books is more difficult for children in the summer, especially for those who parents don't model reading
A4 I love to gift my Ss the careworn copies of novels I will be replacing the next year. To OWN a book is a rare treasure for some
Younger,
emerging readers can make 'sight word books' to take home and practice over summer
A3 RtA Camp will provide access to many books/genres while encouraging student choice
One year we had Mr. Scooter from NHC Public Library come out & rap about the library's summer programs. Very motivating!
Doing my booktalks to gr 5-8 and also challenging them with the challenge. .
A4: Some ELs spend summer without as much interaction in the language they are learning. How do we give them chances to practice?
What's the challenge? Tell me more!
Scooter the rapping librarian rocks! He's a great motivator for kids to read!
A4: Helping Ss find books in their native language and the one they are learning is crucial. Reading for fun is important, too.
A4 Language (reading speaking, writing listening) needs to be activated to foster memory/growth & vocab retention
A4 Huge issue in Los Angeles. I urge Ss to at least half the time watch TV in English. Some only speak Eng one hour per day.
Just one minute until Question 5!
A4: ELs may mostly be surrounded by speakers of their L1 & may lose some English that hasn't been commited to long term memory.
and yet not reading in their home language....
has had children in the summer call her and read to her.
A5 Talk to students about books!
A5. Twitter is a gr8 way to stay on top of current titles! and are great hashtags to follow!
always does a book exchange at EOY.Always more than enough for those who don't have any.
A5: It was easier when I was in a classroom. Now, I ask my kids and visit bookstores before the library to make our reading list.
Ss with an interest in cars, bikes, sk8ing, and other extreme sports etc. read just from pure vicarious excitement!
A5: I take to the webernets. I set the target in Google and travel down a path lined with YA lit - exploring titles as I go.
A5 Product catalogs...easy to see what is popular even if you aren’t buying
A5: Blogs and of course Twitter are ways for me to keep up with the trends these days.
A5. I also follow , , & (among others) to keep my finger on the pulse.
A5: To me a good book is timeless. The Secret Garden for one is a great example of allowing kids to escape into a fictitious world
YES! I love that I’m not alone. :)
Exactly, Brandy! ELs need to hear it, speak it, and practice, practice, practice! https://t.co/LVp2kRoRVz
A4: ELs may mostly be surrounded by speakers of their L1 & may lose some English that hasn't been commited to long term memory.
A5 Serving on your state bk award selection committee will introduce you to outstanding new titles to share
A5: The NHC public library is always a great resource, too!
A5 I love to watch Book Trailers With the kids
I did a book talk over the summer over Skype 2 summer's ago. Read it &then met on Skype to discuss. Kept Ss reading all summer!
has anyone else noticed a Dystopian ship trend?
Yes! And having kids create book trailers is great fun too! https://t.co/pdGC06CpsX
A5 I love to watch Book Trailers With the kids
our ebob team just finished making trailers to share with classrooms when the extra copies get distributed. Fun!
I love this idea! https://t.co/KpKYimUsx3
I did a book talk over the summer over Skype 2 summer's ago. Read it &then met on Skype to discuss. Kept Ss reading all summer!
A5. As a lifetime secondary level teacher and librarian, I would have no clue what was going on in were it not for my PLN!
A5 mrshureads.blogspot is the best for resources
A3: like Dystopia at sea; Dystopian pirates etc
Ss loved it too. Got to see some of their friends who had moved, on vacation etc.Was a time to catch up &talk books.
A6: Model it! Ss who see a love of reading in their Ts and parents are more likely to read for enjoyment.
A6 Free voluntary reading...students enjoy reading so much more when they get unrestricted choice to books (incl. lexiles, levels)
A6. Choice! Choice! Choice! Ss need to be given authentic choice when selecting reading material. https://t.co/oLpG28x83j
I’ve done GHO book talks before. So much fun! There’s also Read Across America Day in March.
A6: Model it. I encourage Ss to blog about their writing so their friends can see what they are reading over the summer.
Yes, Susan! Timeless & universal. I love introducing my Ss to new lands & times that are actually familiar https://t.co/w4vF7zXBFc
A5: To me a good book is timeless. The Secret Garden for one is a great example of allowing kids to escape into a fictitious world
A6 Read the books that students read...kids LOVE being able to talk about books that they OR you are reading
A6: Most teens are social creatures. Building a reading group with peers can have a long lasting and far reaching impact.
A6 Model reading for your students. AND read aloud to them. Even my middlers loved to be read to
A6. Research shows that reading for pleasure has real & lasting benefits both academically & personally. https://t.co/yNT9DMGMWY
A6 We gave away over 3200 books today with Give 5 Read 5
I love the idea of kids leading book talks virtually or book clubs via social media!
A6: Book choice is a good start to getting students to enjoy what they are reading.
A6 Simply let them choose without judgement!
A6 student created book trailers and recommendations help promote reading as fun
what are some of your favorite read alouds for the older students?
Amen! When we tell kids they are choosing the “wrong books” we’re telling them they are not readers. https://t.co/ibtGBVDI3V
A6 Simply let them choose without judgement!
A6 finding that first perfect book. Like catching the perfect wave. Once you experience awesome, you keep searching for the next.
Sorry I'm late to the party. Was at Snipes watching a fabulous performance of the lion king.
Read various genres to students during the school year, teach them how to choose books, encourage CHOICE.
A6 Validate student choice (e.g., don’t look down on graphic novels, etc.) These can be the books that give them the reading “bug”
A6. Ts and SLMCs need to let their reading geek flags fly! Passion is contagious! Let Ss see how much YOU <3 reading!
That is true Cindy, I hear you!
I read the Number Devil to my kids b/c it was math of course There are others such as Flatland and A Gebra Named Al
Sounds like an awesome night!
I do I have way too many columns! I'm afraid to admit how many!
I read aloud Magic Tree house books - to 8th graders! I often could find one to align with my curriculum.
Almost time for Question 7!
teaching to choose is a biggie
It is my outlet. I am so looking forward to diving in to my books this summer. I want the Ss to feel the same.
A6: Know your kids & find high interest books from which they can choose. Ss share what they want to learn & find resources.
A6 Talk about books with kids all the time
I love finding good math reads. There are a lot out there.
Late to chat. Angie elementary media specialist.
Find books w/ exp. & content they can relate to or books that can take their imaginations for a ride
A7 Surveying interests...esp. helpful if a librarian and a teacher do this together
A7. Give Ss access to books that act as windows into the lives of others & mirrors reflecting their own. https://t.co/3529Hoctaf
A7: Since many are digital creatures can be a place to search.
A7: Teens can be odd. Direct book suggestions don't always work. I've strategically selected & placed books near snacks before.
hmm that's a good number! I have way more! !
A7 Get to know the student, survey them talk to them find out what they like then recommend books to them.
A7: One of my son's MS teachers turned him on to - he felt empowered to choose books HE wanted.
A7 Reading Blogs for teens...creating and/or reading others
A6 It has to be organic or Ss will never follow through. They have to feed off of your passion. "Just one more page" & you got 'em
A7 As a math person, I asked my kids to rec some books for me to read and it opened up great convo among the class. Sneaky!
A7: Find out their interests and go from there to help find some good reading material for them.
are you in the UNCG MLS program?
A7: Tying in movies - new releases and ones available online - can work for teens. Encourage making connections between them.
A7 Current pop culture trends (zombies, vampires, time travel)...especially hi-lo books
A7. Read aloud to Ss of all ages! I read to my MS and HS Ss. They <3 it and it helps connect reading to a joyful experience.
Yes, it is me. :-) I saw you were moderating so I had to join in for sure.
My thoughts exactly! They aren't going to want to read if they aren't interested in it.
A7: Help Ss find their passion. The right book can make a difference - for more than just the reader. https://t.co/ydGK138ngw
A7 Books used w/ movie tie-ins
A7. Too many of our Ss associate reading only w/assessment. Provide Ss w/opportunities to connect reading w/joy and relevance.
Brilliantly said and I completely concur!
Awesome! So glad you did!
rem when I did Zee's Way w my mastery class? They loved it and was a nice change for me https://t.co/grUqzr1QrF
A7. Read aloud to Ss of all ages! I read to my MS and HS Ss. They <3 it and it helps connect reading to a joyful experience.
Okay! are you ready for Question 8?
Characters that they can identify with ethnically and culturally, too. Sadly, that isn't always easy.
It is great to be able to take and use immediately. Allows Ts to implement and tweak for their classroom. https://t.co/uI7LDVuOa7
A5 Good summer PD+edtech = something that you can actually carry into next school year. Follow up and follow through
I do the same thing! Make it a communal experience. Every giggle and gasp is golden. We sob together too. https://t.co/Bt1UKAn25a
A7. Read aloud to Ss of all ages! I read to my MS and HS Ss. They <3 it and it helps connect reading to a joyful experience.
School librarians can help you find more of these titles! https://t.co/Y90mA5JWnO
Characters that they can identify with ethnically and culturally, too. Sadly, that isn't always easy.
Read aloud. w/ Ss and model infelection kids can express the way they hear the characters in books too. Fun!
A5: I LOVE the blog Modern Mrs Darcy! She posts reading ideas for both adults and students https://t.co/JgigIhkmKR is a YA list
A8: is great for recommending books. Following authors & other librarians on Twitter helped me build my collection.
This is super important! https://t.co/7yjScsY5ad
A7. Read aloud to Ss of all ages! I read to my MS and HS Ss. They <3 it and it helps connect reading to a joyful experience.
A8 For my science peeps, I have to say Techbook has tons of reading passages that appeal to our STEM minded Ss
A7. I don't know what the question was, but my answer is..."What's your favorite TV show? for a $1000, Pat"
A8 is a great source also.
A8. If you're interested in participating in a book study of ' books next school year (via Canvas) let me know!
A8 Donalyn Miller and Mr. Shu Reads
The Reading Summits (one in Charlotte) this summer will be a great resource! I’ll be there! https://t.co/blltlrtCmf
Question 9 is just around the corner!
A professor at UNCW read a chapter of Hatchet to us at the beginning of every class. Nobody was ever late!
really?? Checking that out asap.
A9 I think being involved in student’s reading makes such a huge difference - knowing interests and being able to recommend books.
A9. Ss need choice, practice & authentic reasons to read. To grow real readers, we must cultivate REAL reading lives.
A8 Asking other media specialist for recommendations. Ss also have helped build my collection.
Poetry is another genre kids can get into--never too early!
Love Modern Mrs. Darcy as a book bloger.GoodReads is also great.Public Library sends out list serves with genre recs that I <3
Yes. And there are SO MANY great novels in verse out there now! https://t.co/p9lU7XjRwU
Poetry is another genre kids can get into--never too early!
Yes! reading beyond school
A9 advocating for our library ($)has went a long way in providing books they are interested in which definitely helps dev. readers
A9. None of us remember falling in love w/consonant blends or the T who helped us master text features. https://t.co/eiiSr1ifAx
A9: Modeling and Practice!!
A8 https://t.co/OWI77S7kRt
Love Modern Mrs. Darcy as a book bloger.GoodReads is also great.Public Library sends out list serves with genre recs that I <3
I love that book, Brandy! It has sequels perfect for continued individualized reading. It's my YA blog. https://t.co/goLl5GcHez
A professor at UNCW read a chapter of Hatchet to us at the beginning of every class. Nobody was ever late!
A9 We simply have to allow TIME for them to read and not considerate it "wasted" time
A9. When we tell Ss they are not reading the right books (comics, etc) we tell them they are not readers. https://t.co/lb2KkessGg
"Choose your own Adventure Books" any fellow dinosaurs like me remember those from elem. in the last century?
A9 Model passionate reading and encourage reading choice
A9Taking an interest in what they're reading really helps.Asking about characters and plot in a book Ss choice themselves goes far
A9 Help them practice reading in all subjects. We're all reading teachers.
A9 Reading for pleasure helps readers grow. Getting kids hooked on books helps them grow.
Hard to believe it is already time for our last question.
A9 I think it’s very simple: encourage free choice.
Books are balloons for the brain!
AMEN! To get better at anything, you need practice. Time spent reading (w/o an activity to go w/it) is good pedagogy. @nanspowell
A9 For me, it's all about passion & profundity. Exploring themes & symbols becomes a scholarly adventure that enhances plot.
oh yes! was just talking to another dinosaur about them the other day:-)
A9Taking an interest in what they're reading really helps.Asking about characters and plot in a book Ss choose themselves goes far
Ha! not only do I remember them, I think I still have at least one that I passed down to my own kids!
This is such an important step. If Ss don't see us excited about reading then why will they be. https://t.co/qdcJYix55U
A9 Model passionate reading and encourage reading choice
what a great way to build relationships with students too.
A10 I always mention this, but vet Ts answering BTs questions in a chat would be amazing
Mr. Scooter at the Myrtle Grove Branch has a rap club. They perform their songs at NHC library events- authentic purpose.
A10 would be fun topic as well
Saw at MSLA conference -- she was great. Thanks for reminder about resource!
Lol! I was addicted to those! Sometimes I wish they made them for adults, too! https://t.co/cWN9gScC7I
"Choose your own Adventure Books" any fellow dinosaurs like me remember those from elem. in the last century?
A10 I'm kind of a chat newbie, but this was by far my favorite chat. Great questions & fantastic colleagues!
Did you read all the adventures anyway? Ha!
I am too Robert! Thanks for contributing such great comments! https://t.co/jE1eLIumV8
A10 I'm kind of a chat newbie, but this was by far my favorite chat. Great questions & fantastic colleagues!
When I taught 2nd grade, I ended the day with poetry. While we were waiting for dismissal.
Thank you all for participating and for all you do for the students and teachers of .
So glad you could join us for Hope you will join us next time!
isn't always in my comfort zone, but I always leave with so many things to think about!
