Title of Artifact

Let’s Get Dirty! -Storytime plan

Description of Artifact

This document outlines a storytime I presented during my practicum at Rosemary Garfoot Public Library in Cross Plains, WI. Big Kids Book Time was the title for the storytime geared towards 3-6 year-olds. Approximately 15 children attended this storytime. I chose songs, fingerplays, books, and a poem with slightly differing levels of difficulty for the range of this group. The sensory/literacy activity was designed to help children connect words with concepts. We mixed water and dirt in a bag to make mud, then passed the bag around for everyone to feel. The children were prompted to describe the mud, as well as sound out the words other children were providing. Children were active participants in the project and the craft afterwards, payed close attention to the books, and enjoyed discussing them.

SLIS Learning Outcomes Justification

This storytime required me to understand the reading level of the age group, and select books and activities to promote literacy. I evaluated the picture books and poems for content, reading level, and artwork quality. With this age range, younger children would be just learning to read while older children are proficient readers and writers. The activities were designed to involve the whole range of abilities using a variety of materials and processes. Oral communication is absolutely vital in a storytime. I maintained the attention of the children and control of the noise level and activities at all times. I spoke to parents mostly at the beginning, then focused on the children throughout. I learned the confidence necessary to lead and guide a large group of children while motivating them to enjoy the stories.