Summer is a convenient opportunity for teachers to dedicate time to a good book. Recommended reading lists for teachers try to suggest great books to help teachers with new teaching ideas, reflect on teaching practices, discover something new about children, or even to just unwind. Though these lists often contain excellent book suggestions, they also emphasize reading as a solitary activity.
Reading for professional development can be effective as a group activity. Whether colleagues teach the same grade level, different subjects or even in the different districts, everyone can benefit from interacting with others and discussing concepts from the chosen book. It encourages a deeper reading of the material and brings forth different views and experiences from all who participate.
Arrange Book Club Meetings
Many book club readers insist that there is no substitute to meeting in person in an informal setting. To create a local professional development book club with some diversity, send information to local schools or districts. If there is a large response, the group could be divided into smaller ones either by meeting date/time or by book choices. Keep the meeting place informal such as a volunteer’s home, the school, local library or even a public park.
Keep in mind that attendance will not be perfect. It is summer and some participants might have vacation plans but still want to be part of the book club. Also, review the requirements of the state regarding professional development credits; if a recorded time is required for professional development records make sure to keep an official sign-in sheet.
Creating the Summer Reading List
Prepare the reading list in advance of the first meeting. Have everyone suggest one or two books that they would like to read and then select the books by popular vote. Determine how many weeks to dedicate to each book and which chapters should be read for each meeting. Realize that the length of the summer vacation and the length or subject matter of each book will contribute to how many books might be read by the group during the summer.
Another important piece to the summer reading is the discussion questions. Though, as teachers, many participants will be comfortable creating their own discussion questions, the group leader might also want to check online publisher resources, such as at the Reading Group Guide, for suggestions from the author.
Creating a book club for professional development can be a rewarding summer experience for teachers. It promotes a relaxed atmosphere for discussion about a book that can be rewarding on both personal and professional levels. Visit sites such as Book-Clubs-Resource for more information about how to start a book club.
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