Blogshare

Introduction

Blogs are an extremely useful source of information. There are a tremendous number of blogs out there. I chose to share Staying Cool in the Library for my blogshare this week. This blog is not very old. Based on the dates of the blogs, I would say it is only a few years old. The author has written a multitude of types of posts on the blog. There are a variety of posts that contain book suggestions such as scary books, books for boys, graphic novel recommendations, and books for teaching visualization to name a few. She also has blog posts with lesson ideas or activities. Some of these posts are about the importance of citations, teaching figurative language, and internet safety.

Post One

I chose four specific posts to highlight from the blog. The first post is titled How to Plan the Perfect Interactive Read Aloud. This blog was published on February 15, 2021. She begins the blog by explaining what an interactive read aloud is. She then moves on to discuss the planning that should be involved for before, during, and after the actual read aloud. The author provides some excellent suggestions in all three areas. For example, in the before reading section she talks about thinking about considering the interests and ages of the listeners and providing a good book preview before you start reading. She continues with great during reading suggestions such as modeling reading behaviors, asking questions, planning where to pause, and thinking aloud about your reading. After reading she suggests planning ahead to engage the listeners in conversations about the book and extending their learning. This post is a great resource for readers who are newer to doing read aloud and provided great reminders for those who are more experienced with read alouds.

Post Two

Post two is titled Read Alouds Made Easy- 10 Tips for Successful Storytelling. In this post the author says, "A well-crafted read-aloud session can spark curiosity, nuture imagination, and foster a lifelong love for books." In this post the author gives useful tips for a successful read aloud. Her tips include things to do before reading the story as well as during the actual reading. Before reading the read aloud she suggests collecting captivating read alouds, rehearsing, and creating an inviting environment. While reading she encourages readers to use emotion in their narration, add visuals, add sound effects, and encouraging active participation.

Post Three

Benefits of Graphic Novels is the title of the third post that I chose. The author says, " Graphic novels are not just a visual form of storytelling, they also come with many benefits of reading." This post was particularly interesting to me because I currently teach special education, and many of my struggling readers LOVE graphic novels. However, I often hear from parents (and sometimes teachers), "I want them to read books not comics." The writer identifies seven major benefits of graphic novels in her post:

1) Visual comprehension grows

Readers are deciphering meaning behind illustrations not just reading words.
Combination of text and images is great for young or struggling readers.

2) Increased engagement

Graphic novels motivate students to read more often.
The artwork and compelling stories are very engaging for students.

3) Improved literacy skills

Students are decoding text elements not just text.

4) Visual literacy

Students are unlocking the hidden language of body language, facial expressions, and panel sequence.
Students are better able to navigate and make sense of the world around them when they can understand and interpret visual information.

5) Cultural and historical awareness

6) Sequential thinking and critical analysis

Students develop their logical reasoning and analytical skills while deciphering the relationship between images and text.
They have to follow the sequence of the panels.

7) Bridge to traditional literature

Graphic novels are less intimidating that other novels and build confidence.

Post Four

The final post that I chose to highlight is titled 10 Library Grants Every Librarian Should Apply For. In this post the author lists 10 grants. She gives a description of the grant, qualifications, grant amount, and application deadline. A variety of grants are highlighted such as the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries, Dollar General Summer Reading Grant, and Eisner Graphic Novel Grant for Libraries to name a few. I feel this a value post because in today's society libraries often don't have the funding that they need to create libraries that meet the needs of their community, school, or patrons. This post provides librarians with some options to explore to possibly receive some much needed funding.

Conclusion

Overall I found this to be a very informative blog with a variety of information. I thought it was beneficial to be able to look at book lists by skill or topic as well read about specific lessons and activities that could be done revolving around a specific skill or topic. There are also post about things such as summer reading and library organization. The site has links to free resources as well as paid resources that are mentioned throughout the blog. I encourage you to go take a look because I am certain you will find something you can use either in the classroom or the library.