Looking for new and exciting Read Across America ideas that are NOT Dr. Suess? Are you excited to shake things up for Read Across America day this syear? We sure are! This time around, let’s explore some fresh and engaging ideas that steer away from the usual Dr. Seuss route. Get ready for a literary journey that’s diverse, inclusive, and absolutely fantastic. Buckle up for activities that will elevate your celebration!
Read Across America Ideas #1: Set Up Genre Exploration Stations:
One innovative way to celebrate Read Across America is by setting up Genre Exploration Stations. Create reading stations featuring different genres such as mystery, fantasy, and non-fiction. Allow students to rotate through these stations, giving them the opportunity to explore the diverse world of literature.
How to Get Started Today:
- Identify the genres you want to showcase.
- Gather books that represent each genre.
- Set up designated reading stations in your classroom or library.
- Communicate the purpose of the stations to your students.
Read Across America Ideas #2: Book Fair By Unique Author Trait
A book fair with a twist — this is a great way to showcase works by authors who bring a distinctive trait to their storytelling, whether it be cultural background, life experiences, or unconventional voices or writing elements. The goal is to celebrate the unique, lesser-known authors. As a school or grade level you can promote diversity in literature and encourage readers to explore a wide array of voices. This theme not only aligns with the spirit of Read Across America Week but also fosters a love for reading that transcends boundaries and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Read Across America Ideas #3: Host a Book Character Dress-Up Parade:
Move away from the typical Dr. Seuss characters and encourage students to dress up as their favorite book characters. Organize a lively Book Character Dress-Up Parade where students can showcase their creative costumes and briefly talk about the books they represent.
How to Get Started Today:
- Announce the upcoming parade to your students.
- Encourage them to choose a favorite book character to portray.
- Provide guidelines for creating costumes that represent the chosen characters.
- Plan a date for the parade and invite parents to join the celebration.
Read Across America Ideas #4: Put on a Community Reading Project:
Engage with your local community by putting on a Community Reading Project. Collaborate with parents, community leaders, or local authors to create a reading project that brings diverse stories to life.
How to Get Started Today:
- Reach out to local community members who may be interested in participating.
- Explain the concept of the project and its impact on students.
- Schedule reading sessions with community participants.
- Create a calendar and promotional materials to spread the word.
Read Across America Ideas #5: Readers Theater Red Carpet Week
This exciting event turns elementary schools into literary stages, where students become the stars of their favorite stories. Each classroom transforms into a unique performance space, allowing students to bring beloved characters to life through the magic of Readers Theater. Invite other classrooms to performances to create a schoolwide experience. This engaging and creative celebration not only promotes a love for reading but also builds confidence and teamwork among students, making Read Across America Week an unforgettable experience for every student.
Read Across America Ideas #6: Literary Scavenger Hunt:
Add an element of excitement with a Literary Scavenger Hunt. Organize clues related to different books and genres, creating an interactive experience for students. Let them work in teams to uncover hidden book titles throughout the school or library.
How to Get Started Today:
- Select books and genres for the scavenger hunt.
- Create clues that lead to specific locations in the school or library.
- Form teams and assign each team a starting point.
- Explain the rules and goals of the scavenger hunt to the students.
Read Across America Ideas #7: Book-Inspired Art Gallery:
Ignite the artistic flair in students by encouraging them to create artwork inspired by their favorite books. Transform a designated area into a Book-Inspired Art Gallery, and let students take ownership of the set-up and design. This is a great way to celebrate Read Across America Day and giving the students a chance to have their voices heard.
How to Get Started Today:
- Share the idea of the art gallery with your students.
- Provide art supplies and allocate time for creative sessions.
- Establish guidelines for creating art inspired by books.
- Set a date for the gallery exhibition and invite parents and fellow students.
This Read Across America, let’s celebrate literature with activities that go beyond the familiar narratives. By embracing diverse genres, encouraging creativity through costumes and art, involving the community, and making literature an interactive experience, we can instill a love for reading that extends far beyond the celebration week. Let the adventure begin!
Want some reading discussion prompts to use during class read-alouds for Read Across America Day and beyond? Check out these free paperless prompts!
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Arm you with high-quality tools: Sleep peacefully at night knowing you’re doing what’s best for your students.
Save your energy: Provide resources that cost you little energy (that stuff is precious)---but have high impact on your students.
Light your spark: Putting fun back into your classroom after the hardest teaching years can be just what you and your students need.
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