|
Vivid imaginations and creative hands have been working to bring literature to life.
The 2006 Reading Fair has children reading and learning in a whole new way.
Although the projects resemble science fair projects, there are many differences.
"There is no question that the children enjoy doing the projects," said Instructor and Reading Fair Coordinator Karen Sisk. "They pick the book, take it home, and decide what the backboard will be."
The statewide event is sponsored by BellSouth Pioneers of America. Students are encouraged to read a book and share what they learned through a storyboard display. The children also had the option of allowing a parent to participate by entering in the family project division.
"The family division is the most poplar category," said Sisk. "I have families that tell me that they enjoy it, because they're working together with their children."
Children that participate in the fair have the option of competing alone or in a group. Locally, the students are eligible to win trophies and cash prizes while also earning the opportunity to participate statewide. The district fair is held in Cleveland on the campus of Delta State University in March and the statewide fair is held in Jackson during the month of May. Sisk says the students put a lot of hard work into their projects and the effort is well worth the experience.
"It promotes their confidence and their ability to speak to adults," said Sisk. "It also helps them to understand how to relay information on what a book is about and that helps their comprehension level."
Once students have completely read the book they can use models, shadowboxes, or illustrations to describe the story. The children are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild. Sisk says that the fair is a welcome event for all who participate.
"What we're trying to do is promote the love of books and when we can get a fair together with judges to listen to the kids it gets them to fall in love with reading," said Sisk.
"Reading is the key to their future."
|
|
©The Daily Sentinel Star 2007 |
|
|
|