Southgate hosts Family Book Nights

On March 14, a group of 5th and 6th graders and their families gathered to discuss the book, “Amal Unbound” by Aisha Saeed. There are many wonderful discussion-worthy themes in the book, such as diversity, class, gender, and creating change. The participants began the evening by writing letters to the author, who will be visiting Southgate in November 2019. Students and their families were then asked to choose a quote from the book with which they identified, which made them think, or was important to the plot of the story.

Next, the group participated in rich discussions and recorded their thoughts, wonderings, and feelings while dining together on a multicultural feast! Afterwards, all participants got to share their thoughts and work together to put their favorite quotes into Google Slides with a background image. Finally, families shared their slides. The results were lovely!

On March 26, 40 first and second graders and their families gathered at Southgate to discuss and create poetry about the book, “The Day You Begin.” The beautifully illustrated book is written by Jacqueline Woodson, whose books have won the Newbery and Caldecott Awards, the Coretta Scott King Award and the National Book Award, among others. Our participants recognized in the book and discussed the common themes of how unique we all are and the feeling of starting something new (school, an activity, a job) not knowing anyone or how to begin.

Led by teachers Mrs. Estevez, Mrs. Samaniuk and Mrs. Parmalee, and assisted by teacher, Mrs. Rankin, and principal, Ms. Dedrick, the families discussed the book and wrote and posted comments. The children created a Diamante poem citing their attributes and celebrating their uniqueness. The poems will be posted in our school lobby.

Thank you to all of our families who participated!

Category: Archive