When I was in the classroom, I loved planning for Read Across America Week. It was a great way to get the whole school involved in reading and really cultivated a positive school culture. We did this by having themed days to get students excited about reading. What was amazing was seeing most staff members
Here are six themed days that we used interchangeably throughout the school years during Read Across America Week.
Book Character Day
Think Camila Cream, Charlotte, Harry Potter, or any other favorite character! Have students dress like their favorite book characters. Make sure their costumes follow the school’s dress code.
Celebrate Diversity
Have students reflect on their family’s traditions and culture. They can write about something that represents their culture to share with their class during the week. Encourage students to check out the school library for books about different cultures from around the world.
Superhero Day
Ask students to wear their favorite superhero shirt or wear a cape to show that they’re superhero readers! Encourage students to check out the library for fun books and graphic novels about superheroes.
We Positively Love Books
Ask students to wear a shirt with a positive message or make positive message posters in your class. Encourage students to try their best to show a growth mindset, while encouraging others to do the same. Look at the classroom or school library for books on growth mindset and positivity.
Dress for Success
On this day, students think about their future and what they’re striving to be when they grow older. They can dress up as that professional. Visit the school or classroom library to find books on different careers and trades.
Cozy Up to a Good Book
This is the day students get to wear their pajamas and bring their favorite books to read and cozy up!
Whole Week Reading Challenge
During this week, challenge students to read as much as they can. Picture books, graphic novels, books on tape, anything that will spark their imagination. Listening to their teacher or family member read a story also counts! Each time they read a new book during RAA week, challenge students to write or draw about it on a summary page that you can find here. Have students submit their summaries to the office and they’ll be entered to win a prize from a special Read Across America prize bin.
To grab the editable Read Across America pages, subscribe here!
