![Picture](/uploads/2/2/6/9/22696792/8975281.jpg?146)
As we explore critical thinking, or criteria-based thinking, we discussed what makes a good book. We're going beyond "because it's good" to "why is it good?" I heard deeper thinking and reasoning today as students supported their criteria with evidence and examples.
Individually, the students came up with what criteria for them personally are essential for a good book, and then they shared with their groups. Together, they had to negotiate and defend their criteria to come up with a "top 5" list from their group. Once we had these, we made a class list of what is needed for a good book for us and for a younger student.
The grade 5's will use their "5 star book" criteria for our new 5 star book club. When students finish a French chapter book, they will bring home a book review sheet to rate their book out of 5 stars (you'll sign this sheet). They will then share and support their rating with the other grade 5 students. Once a student has read 10 books, they will win some game time on the iPad!
For the grade 4's, we are using their criteria to help us evaluate our new Science project - writing a children's book about an animal and its 5 essential needs. We will read our final copies to grade 1 students!
Individually, the students came up with what criteria for them personally are essential for a good book, and then they shared with their groups. Together, they had to negotiate and defend their criteria to come up with a "top 5" list from their group. Once we had these, we made a class list of what is needed for a good book for us and for a younger student.
The grade 5's will use their "5 star book" criteria for our new 5 star book club. When students finish a French chapter book, they will bring home a book review sheet to rate their book out of 5 stars (you'll sign this sheet). They will then share and support their rating with the other grade 5 students. Once a student has read 10 books, they will win some game time on the iPad!
For the grade 4's, we are using their criteria to help us evaluate our new Science project - writing a children's book about an animal and its 5 essential needs. We will read our final copies to grade 1 students!