Monday, March 23, 2009

Motivating the Unmotivated Reader With Graphic Novels and Comic Books

Hello,

Do you have a child who is not interested in reading? There are many possible reasons for the lack of interest but the one with the quickest solution is finding interesting books to read. And if you have a disinterested boy reader, your challenge is even greater. However, do not despair. One of the best ways to get your child interested in reading is with the graphic novel or comic book.

Often times the comic book is poo-pooed and not taken seriously. But if you've ever read a comic book then you know they have plot lines, story archs, character development, and a vocabulary beyond the stereotypical onomatopoeia action words. Plus, the vivid pictures help the struggling reader with comprehension. As I tell my students, read the pictures and read the words!

If you would like some suggested titles, send me a comment and I will be happy to get you and your child started!

Happy Reading,

Kathleen

Friday, March 20, 2009

Story Boards to Help with Comprehension

Hello,

Many children can read the words on the page, but do they truly understand what they are reading? Do they remember what they read? One of my favorite tools to check for understanding with my students is to use a story board. The kids love using story boards because they are doing art but more importantly they are discovering for themselves how much they understand and remember from what they just read. And, when they learn on their own that they don't remember, they take it upon themselves to re-read.

I use a story board with a total of 6 squares. I have attached a link to a printable story board. Your child sketches the main events in a chapter in sequence. The object is to be able to tell the story using pictures and not words. When the sketches are complete, your child can color the pictures and add more details.

This is a fun, quick, and interactive activity to do with your child. Soon your child will begin to construct their own meaning from the words on the page and you'll have some fabulous art work to display!

Happy Reading,

Kathleen

Monday, March 16, 2009

Sleepy Bear's Book Club

Hello,

In case you have not heard, Sleepy Bear hosts a book club for kids. He asks for suggestions about which book to choose each month and then he assigns how many pages to read. He asks questions to the kids and makes his own predictions and constructs meaning from what he reads. Kids can blog to Sleepy Bear about their favorite parts of the book or about anything they don't understand. Sleepy Bear is very good about responding to his blog questions. And parents, I moderate all comments before they are published. Check out his blog by clicking on the link to the left.

Currently Sleepy Bear is traveling in New York City with Moosey-Moose, but he plans to start a new book when he returns to Seattle in a couple of days. In the meantime, check out his previous book club blog entries.


Happy Reading,

Kathleen

A Few of My Favorite Books

Hello,

I've added a short list of a few of my favorite books for kids. This is a very short list but I will add to it and update it monthly. If you would like to know more about any of the books on the list, please comment on my blog or send me an email message at Kathleen@KathleenHunterWrites.com.

Happy Reading,

Kathleen

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Story Hour

Hello,

Each month I am hosting a Story Hour for kids at Abraxus Books in Ballard. So, if you live in the area be sure to join me from 1-2 pm for picture book stories, a craft activity, and cookies. It's free and you don't need to bring anything except your love for books! Check-out the website for Abraxus Books at Abraxusbooks.com.

I hope to see you next on April 4, 2009.

Cheers,

Kathleen

Day One of My Blog

Hello Friends,

As you can see, my blog is super-duper brand new and is still under construction. In fact, I just launched it last night. Please be patient. I promise to have info for you later today. In the meantime, check out my website and Sleepy Bear's blog and Moosey-Moose's blog.

I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge on literacy for kids and my love of reading and writing.

Cheers,

Kathleen