Global Read Aloud Book Clubs

Over the past 6 weeks, students have participated in a School Connections Global Read Aloud Book Clubs with Mrs. Tierney.  The Global Read Aloud is an international program that aims to build connections across the globe, as students read the same text simultaneously and engage in various connections to discuss the reading.  Third graders partnered with a school in Arkansas to discuss the book Stuntboy, In the Meantime by Jason Reynolds.  Stuntboy tells the story of a young boy who becomes a Superhero to protect the heroes in his life (his mom and dad), as they go through a nasty divorce.  Along the way, he realizes that not all superheros wear capes and even superheroes need the help of others to survive.  The book club connected via weekly flip grip questions and responses, as well as a postcard exchange. 

Fourth and fifth graders partnered with schools in Los Angeles and Denver to discuss Thirst by Varsha Bajaj via weekly flip grip questions and conversations.  Thirst highlights the water crisis that many throughout the world face, as a young girl named Minni suffers the water crisis in India, having to spend hours in line for water, while working for a rich family whose faucets flow freely.  When Minni accidentally sees a mob stealing water, she faces a tough decision.  What will she do?   Students participated in a postcard exchange with schools from all 50 states and an additional 25 schools in Canada.   Through this exchange, they shared interesting information about cultures, as well as personal reflections on the book.