Doodle, Dream, and Discuss: Savoring Picture Books While Growing Reading Skills

This ongoing course will focus on enjoying and savoring picture books, both fiction and nonfiction. 
There is much research about the importance of listening to a wonderful piece of literature. Read alouds can:
•	Increase listening skills
•	Expose us to a large set of vocabulary words
•	Guide learners in making sense of the world through language
•	Promote problem solving and critical thinking skills
•	Provide a model for fluency and comprehension skills
•	Encourage learners to make connections to self and other texts
Yet the one most important reason reading aloud is important is that it provides a pleasurable break for all of us. Reading can take us anywhere and has the power to transform.
The course will share a new book each class. We will spend some time discussing each book along the way, sharing any questions, clarifying tricky vocabulary, or commenting on striking illustrations, but never at the expense of simply enjoying the book. When possible, diverse texts will be used. We will end class with a brief discussion of our favorite parts, connections made, and a comprehension fun follow-up activity to guide in increased comprehension. Doodling will be encouraged.
Below is a sampling of books that may be read. Note that permissions given by publishers are temporary due to COVID and are subject to change.
 
Week of April 5: What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? By Steve Jenkins & Robin Page (used with permission from author)

Week of April 12: Sea Bones by Bob Barner (used with permission from Chronicle Books)

Week of April 19: The Dory Story by Jerry Pallotta (used with permission from the author)

Week of April 26: Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee by Chris VanDusen (used with permission from Chronicle Books)

Week of May 3: The Tide by Nik Pollard (used with permission from Roaring Brook Press)

Week of May 10: A Perfect Day by Lane Smith (used with permission from Roaring Brook Press)