Charles River School

The library program fosters the enjoyment and appreciation of literature with an intentional focus on introducing books featuring diverse cultures and traditions. The program also provides opportunities for guided inquiry where students find, evaluate, synthesize, create and share information efficiently, effectively, and ethically. Students in grades PreK - 6 have scheduled weekly library classes.

List of 6 items.

PreK/K

At the PreK/K level, students find a friendly, receptive environment in the library – a place to develop the love of books and stories and to know that this is a special place where books are kept, cared for, and respected, ready to be opened, ready to fascinate. The library is a place where readers and non-readers can feel comfortable.
One/Two

First and second graders are encouraged to use the library for its quiet space, to treat the library materials responsibly, and to enjoy books. By second grade, children begin to be able to find resources independently in the library and to do more involved tasks, such as online book searches. The main goals of the library program are for students to gain an appreciation for a “good story” (literature appreciation), and to recognize that information can satisfy one’s curiosity (information literacy).
Third Grade

In the third grade, students are encouraged to become more independent in their use of library resources and receive formal instruction on using the Online Library Catalog database. Students are introduced to the Dewey Decimal System and practice locating both fiction and nonfiction books. During weekly read alouds, students continue to work on active listening and critical thinking skills as we look at more sophisticated plot lines, character development, and comparative literature.
Fourth Grade

In the fourth grade, the library curriculum furthers students’ appreciation and enjoyment of literature with the goal of deepening enthusiasm for reading for pleasure and for information. The curriculum also provides students with opportunities to plan search strategies rooted in prior knowledge and curiosity when doing research. Using print and online reference sources, students strive to make meaning and create new knowledge using an inquiry process.
Fifth Grade

For fifth grade students, the library becomes a resource and a reference point whenever any question of reading or researching arises. Students participate in the annual Massachusetts Children's Book Award program and prepare and present monthly book summaries and projects (Library Workshop). Students also complete two in-class research projects over the year following the guided inquiry steps of the BIG 6 research method. This project includes bibliographic citation instruction.
Sixth Grade

Sixth grade students have already learned about the library, its facilities, and how to make use of them. Consequently, the two principal activities in their library time consist of pleasure-reading book shares as well as an exploration and evaluation of various online reference databases and news sources. Both activities share the goal of students becoming more critical thinkers and discerning users of information.

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Summer Reading

Library Staff

List of 1 members.

Karen Belsley Pratt

Librarian
Bio
With more than three decades of experience as an educator in public and independent schools, Karen serves as Librarian and Media Services Teacher at CRS. In this role, she develops curriculum that integrates literature with STEAM to spark curiosity, foster inquiry, and inspire students to make meaningful connections. During her time at CRS, she has also taught PreKindergarten and multiage PreK/K, helped to establish the multi-age PreK-2 program, developed an early childhood makerspace, and served as the PreK-2 Curriculum Coordinator. Karen also taught at the Acton Children’s School, at the Wellesley Cooperative Nursery School, and in the Newton and Natick public schools. She earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Haverford College, and her master’s degree in early childhood education from Boston College.