Library

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.