Grade PreK Lessons (PXES Elementary): PK3, Fall

For PK3 library time, teachers have asked for very simple stories with only a few words on the page.  Illustrations that the children can see and understand are essential.  It is fine if the story only lasts a few minutes and there is no expectation that you fill the 30 minute period.  Homeroom teachers will always stay with the class and will manage behavior when needed. 

Before the lesson:

• The librarian will provide the text and a brief lesson outline.
• Please pre-read the text so that you know which illustrations or phrases to emphasize
• Pull similar titles.  For example, if the lesson features a story about puppies, be sure to have a few puppy books on hand for students who are interesting in reading something similar.
• Make a color copy of the book's cover illustration and hang it on the Early Years Library display board.  This way the children can visually follow their lesson progress.

General Lesson Structure:  Usually, in a PK3 lesson we:

• Welcome the children with a smile and calm environment.
• Once the children are seated on the carpet, sing a settling in song.  "The Hello Song" is one example.
• Remind the children what they did last week.  Point out any changes in the library space.
• Introduce the lesson/topic with a few remarks.  Ex:  "Because this is our first visit to the library this year, we're going to read a little bit about libraries."  Another example, "Because you are Miss Lola's dragons, we will read a dragon story today!"
• Slowly read the story to the children, pausing when appropriate for their comments or questions.
• After reading, talk a little bit about the text.  Ex:  "I really loved that story because . . . . "  "I had a connection to that story because . . . . "
• Invite children to slowly and carefully stand up and choose two books to take home and bring back next week.
• Children browse for books and read on the carpet until check out time.  
• Check-Out is done at a small station at the back of the Early Years Library.  After the children check-out, they put their books in their library bags.

Please bear in mind:

• PK3 teachers may want to pause for Chinese translations, especially early in the year.
• Sometimes PK3 arrives late.  It is very difficult to keep such small children on a strict schedule.  If they are 10 minutes late, don't worry!
• Sometimes it is necessary to change your plan at the last minute.  So, be sure to take time to read widely from the Early Years library.  The PX ES Library has a wealth of wonderful materials and the more you know, the better prepared you will be.