Reading Projects – One Book to Connect the World

Looking for reading projects?

In 2010, Pernille Ripp, one of our presenters, started one of the coolest reading projects we've come across. It's called Global Read Aloud. Its motto: One book to connect the world. According to its official website, participants read the previously selected “book to read aloud to our students during a set 6-week period and during that time we try to make as many global connections as possible.” You can connect with one class or make hundreds of connections as you go along. This year, the event is taking place from October – November. You can sign up here and there is absolutely no charge to particulate.

Different books are selected every year. The selection for the 2016 read along is currently being selected. If you're an author interested in submitting your novel, then fill out the form here. Books range from simple picture books suited for early learners to complex novels suited for high school or even older students. Even if there isn't a book perfectly suited for your students' reading level, you should still consider participating. The heart of this reading project is about students making connections regardless of the book's reading level.

Both teachers and students receive countless benefits for joining the Global Read Aloud. First, you get to enjoy an excellent book just like you would during other reading projects. In addition to that, you get to make amazing connections. Teachers get to further their personal learning network. Students get to connect with other children around their age from around the world as they discuss the book. This gives them the chance to experience various perspectives in a personal, safe, and fun way. Teachers have used social media to connect with other classrooms. Popular sites for this include Skype, Twitter, WriteAbout, and Edmodo.

For more information, watch the video below.