Service Learning Project
Family Reading Night

Step 1 Points of Entry: This project was based on the growing need of literacy in my school district. I want my students to see the importance of reading and talk about some of the reasons people do not read anymore. We will also come up with solutions to the problem and think of ways we can help in our school community.

Step 2 Map Out Your Plans:  see service learning plan sheet (attached)

Step 3 Clarify Partnerships: We will need the cooperation of local bookstores and libraries for donations of books. We will also need the help of local businesses for money donations. This will provide supplies for the reading night and also serve as a donation to our school library.

Step 4 Review Plans and Gather Resources: We will take a trip to the local library to take a tour and learn about all of the resources the library provides. We will also sign all students up for a library card. We will ask the library if they are in need of story readers on the weekends and ask students to sign up for time slots.  (also see service learning plan sheet- attached)

Step 5 Begin the Process of Service Learning in Action:
            Integrated Learning: Students will research the effects of illiteracy and also the history of literacy. We will discuss reasons for illiteracy and discuss how we can make a difference in our area.
            Meeting Genuine Needs: Students will discuss the illiteracy in our community and discuss reasons for it. We will interview local librarians and community bus garages to see if resources and transportation is being provided to all community members.
            Youth Voice and Choice: After a field trip to the library, students will sign up to read at the library for an hour on the weekend. We will provide fliers to community businesses and set up transportation, for those who need it, through the community bus garage.
            Collaborative Efforts: Students will canvas the school and local community businesses for helpers, donations, and book donations.
            Reciprocity: Students will learn about the importance of people working together to help a whole community.
            Civic Responsibility:  They will learn that the problem and solution is bigger than themselves, but they can make a difference when they work together.  

Step 6 Assess the Service Learning Experience: Students will participate in a group meeting in which we will complete pages 49&50 together. Students will then complete page 50 on their own. We will discuss what we learned and what impact we had. We will then present all of our data at an assembly for students and parents. This will be a chance to encourage everyone to continue the project in the future. (see attached)