Fourth-graders at South Douglas Elementary School recently celebrated a special milestone as they read their first chapter book for the new school year and created inspiring book reports.
“We hit the ground running and started reading our chapter books on the first day of school because it’s so important that kids have real books in their hands every day,” said Thomas Bruno, fourth-grade elementary teacher at SDES. “The students are successful in all subject areas when they are strong readers,” he added.
The young scholars kicked off their reading adventures with "Who Was?," a series of illustrated biographies for young readers featuring significant historical figures including artists, scientists, and world leaders. Next, they explored thrilling stories from history, through the eyes of a kid who lived to tell the tale in the "I Survived Series." The exciting reads included "What Was? the Lewis and Clark Expedition," "I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916," and "I Survived the Attack of the Grizzlies, 1967.”
Bruno shared that he ensures every student owns a copy of the books read in class, so they are able to take them home each night.
Some of the books that were fan favorites included "Who Was?" and the "I Survived Series" due to their kid-friendly charm.
“I love the 'Who Was?' Books. The books make learning about events in history fun,” said fourth-grader Roman El Amrani.
The books combine genres, which appeals to kids who enjoy fiction or nonfiction.
“I want the kids to love and enjoy reading. My goal is for them to become lifelong readers and collectors of books,” emphasized Bruno.