ERIC Number: ED346874
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1992-Apr
Pages: 4
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Whole Language in an Elementary School Library Media Center. ERIC Digest.
Lamme, Linda Leonard; Beckett, Cecilia
This digest examines changes that are involved in an elementary school library media program when the school's instructional methods move from a basic skills to a whole language approach. These changes are discussed in terms of three curricular foci--theme studies, process writing, and literature-based reading--and new demands that are placed on the collection and the school librarian. Because the whole language approach relies heavily on children's literature instead of textbooks, large numbers of trade books are required, and librarians must work cooperatively with teachers to ensure that the necessary resources are available in the media center when needed. Flexible scheduling in the school media center is important to the success of theme studies as it allows children to seek answers to questions as they arise. Since whole language creates an enormous demand for books, videos, cassettes, and computer programs, library media specialists can expect dramatic changes in collection use as well as changes in their role. Not only must library media specialists become very familiar with the library collection, but they must also serve as a resource to students and teachers during the planning and execution of theme studies, a teacher of information skills, and an instruction leader. (10 references) (MAB)
Descriptors: Childrens Literature, Elementary Education, Elementary School Curriculum, Learning Resources Centers, Library Collection Development, Library Materials, Library Role, Literature Appreciation, Media Specialists, School Libraries, Teaching Methods, Thematic Approach, Whole Language Approach, Writing Instruction
ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources, Syracuse University, 030 Huntington Hall, Syracuse, NY 13244-2340 (free while supply lasts).
Publication Type: ERIC Publications; ERIC Digests in Full Text
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC.
Authoring Institution: ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources, Syracuse, NY.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A