Elementary Library

Before entering the library:

Say: Today we are learning to follow directions in the library and how to listen to a story with whole body listening. First, we need to learn how to enter the library properly. Explain how to enter the library according to your individual school procedures. Include what their feet, arms, and voices should be doing. Demonstrate what proper behavior entering the library looks like and what they should do when they get inside (for example, a seating chart). Demonstrate what improper behavior looks like. Explain positive and negative consequences for behavior. Step 2: Instruct Students of Behavior Expectations & Consequences in the Library Settle students in seats either at tables or on a rug. Congratulate them on their behavior and following directions. Explain again any reward system for behavior in your school library. Teach any attention-getters you will be using this school year. Step 3: Instruct Students to follow Whole Body Listening and Read Aloud Say: One of my favorite things about library time is reading books with all of you! We are going to read a great story today about schools, libraries, and friends. When we read a book I expect you to listen with your whole body. Practice with the class entering the library. Repeat 2-3 times as needed.

Show image of student demonstrating whole body listening.

Say: What is this student doing with their hands?

Repeat with legs, eyes, ears, mouth.

Say: We show we care for others during storytime by using our whole body to listen. Can you each show me what whole body listening looks like? (Allow time and correct as needed) Wonderful! Let’s practice by reading a story together. Remember, if you have something to say during the story, you need to raise your hand first.

Movement break

Read the story with the discussion guide. Pause story as necessary to redirect students to whole body listening and respectful participation.

Review attention-getters, procedures and routines learned that day. Review “I can” statements and ask students for thumbs up or thumbs down if they think they can follow directions, listen to read-alouds with whole body listening, and describe a library. READER’S ADVISORY, CIRCULATION PROCEDURES & DISMISSAL No circulation first week for Kindergarten through 2nd grade. When it’s time to leave, instruct students how to line up and leave the library.

19