Easy NF mini-libraries--Yes or No

[Ludwick Mary <ludwickm@LISD.NET>]

I say no...
#1. This creates a shelving nightmare with "mini libraries" all over the
library.  It also creates unnecessary confusion when teaching Dewey.
Children have enough trouble grasping the concept without teaching E is
for picture books, yet E 1234 is for NF easy reading.
#2.  What about the child who is reading several grade levels above his
age level?--This child is then restricted to books much simplier than
the ability level.

How to handle getting children to select NF in their ability level?
   Here are some ideas:
For my 1st graders I let them get 2 books weekly.  To satisfy the
teacher's (and child's) need for books which they can actually read, I
have 2 designated carts upon which I place beginning readers....I
include such books as rookie reader series as well as NF with simple
vocabulary.
Children MUST make one selection from these carts.  The other book can
be anything in the library.  This satisfies the need for a book in which
to practice reading and a book to browse on a subject in which the child
is interested.

Another idea:  Let children select, but encourage the use of the "5
finger" test for reading ability.  (test: read a page, put up a finger
if you don't know the word--miss 5 words on a page, the book is too
difficult for the child).

Third idea; When teachers have a topic, preselect the NF when the class
comes and have children select from a particular table.
--

Mary Croix Ludwick, MLS    B.B. Owen Elementary K-5
Lewisville ISD,  The Colony, Texas (near Dallas)
ludwickm@lisd.net (school)   ludwick@swbell.net (home)

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