These additional pre-conference workshops will provide a deep dive into three areas: teaching writing, visual literacy, and using diverse books in the classroom.
“Picturing Writing with a touch of Maine,” with Beth Olshansky, Innovative Program Developer
Explore the dynamic relationship between pictures and words. Learn how to create simple Maine-based crayon resist paintings, read those pictures, and make them “come alive” using an engaging, evidence-based approach to teaching writing. Picturing Writing: Fostering Literacy Through Art® offers an innovative, inclusive way to teach writing and foster a love of picture books that has been proven effective for a wide range of learners. This dynamic, multimodal approach to teaching writing can be easily aligned with grade-level standards and integrated across the curriculum. No previous art experience necessary!
“Finding & Using Diverse Books in You Classroom,” with Anne Sibley O’Brien, author & illustrator
Diverse books matter! Discuss the latest research on diverse books, how multiracial picture books can be used to reduce inter-group anxiety and counter bias, and how these titles can support students to develop positive group identities and build respect and empathy. Anne will suggest sources for locating recommended titles, a scaffolded approach for building a developmentally-appropriate framework for positive, inclusive discussions of differences; and resources for further exploration. Together we’ll brainstorming ideas for using diverse books with students.
“Wordless Picture Books,” with Courtney Waring, Director of Education, The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
How does one “read” a book without words? How do pictures tell a story? In this workshop, we’ll explore how wordless picture books invite readers of all ages and reading levels to look closely, think critically, and engage in collaborative storytelling. Participants will discover different types of wordless books and consider how to use them during interactive story times.