Trained volunteers are invited into elementary or middle school classrooms to introduce themselves, read from age-appropriate books, and facilitate a group discussion.
Often, the readers will incorporate drawing, role playing, pair shares, small group discussions or other activities to encourage open and honest discussion.
The readers are also trained to use storytelling, reading, and facilitation techniques to help ensure a successful experience for the students.
The outcome of the experience is that students had the opportunity to express their feelings and thoughts about racism as well as brainstorm ways that we can all work to eliminate racism.
RER Readers’ Guidelines Revised 2/29/08
HAVE FUN!!!
Part One (approximately 10-15 minutes)
1. Introduce yourself and the program (write on board). 2. Explain why you are doing this by using a personal story. 3. Describe how you have learned to deal with racism in your life – use a personal story.
Part Two (approximately 10-15 minutes)
1. Read age-appropriate literature about racism. 2. Use ideas from the “Literacy Strategies”.
Part Three (approximately 20-25 minutes)
1. Facilitate an age-appropriate discussion about racism. 2. Generate a list of ideas on how they can help end racism. 3. Use creative strategies if you like.
Part Four (approximately 10 minutes)
1. Distribute/collect feedback forms from students over third grade and teachers. 2. Thank students for showing respect, their ideas, and for their courage. 3. If they want to talk some more, ask them to request time from their teacher.