Summit_Guidebook

Booktalking Activities

Booktalking Buddies:

Positive Influences Across Grade Levels

Educator

Rehearsed booktalks performed with gusto. These don’t have to be perfect, but

they should be polished.

What

Try to group students with children at least two grades younger than they are.

Younger students look up to and admire older readers, and prove to be an

enthusiastic audience. Just keep in mind this age difference as your students

make their book selections. If booktalking to a kindergarten class, for example,

picture books are the most appropriate choice. Remember that a great booktalk

convinces the listener to read the book – select books that your audience can

read if their interest is piqued.

Who

Ultimately, you want your students to feel comfortable performing booktalks for

as many types of people as possible. But before they’re ready for their peers or

their parents, students in lower grades might be a great start: they’re a fascinated

and forgiving audience. Younger students benefit as well, as they see positive role

models of reading. They’ll begin looking forward to the day when they are the

ones performing booktalks!

Why

Booktalking can happen anywhere, at any time! However, you’ll want everyone

to be comfortable; your booktalkers may be nervous and your audience may

be easily distracted. This might mean booktalking in a communal space familiar

to both of them, such as the media center or cafeteria. It’s always a great time to

booktalk, but keep in mind that students may get riled up – booktalking is fun!

You might find that it’s the perfect way to end the school day.

When and Where

Want your students to model good booktalking skills? They need the right audience!

Students in younger grade levels are eager listeners. It’s fun for everyone!