| For Writers
If you are scheduled to present a classroom reading, please read these tips to ensure a successful event. - Consult with the teacher in advance. You need to know exactly what form your presentation will take, what the students have been doing in class and what elements of the curriculum the teacher would like you to include or reinforce. Discuss how to make your presentation as relevant and involving as possible for the students.
- If you have props—artifacts, posters, draft versions of your writing, illustrations, photographs—use them. Make sure you alert the teacher to any equipment you would need, such as overhead or slide projectors, screens, etc.
- Engage the students and involve them as much as possible. Make sure you allow time for this and for questions.
- Seize the teachable moment. If the children bring up something relevant and interesting you hadn’t planned, pursue it.
- Be yourself. Children warm to enthusiasm and knowledge, and respond to a courteous listener who talks to them as equals.
- Speak clearly. And take your sense of humour with you.
- Try to leave them with something tangible—such as signed bookmarks.
For further information
The following organizations share the Fed’s concern for young readers and have produced information to help make school visits effective:
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