Literacy Strategies
Literacy Strategies are integrated throughout the program and its curriculum. Our work aligns with the Massachusetts Curriculum Framework for ELA and Literacy. The following are integrated throughout all program activities:
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking and Listening
- Literature
- Oral Presentation
- Group Work
Theater Arts
Participants spent 4 months writing and producing 3 original plays. Students developed characters, plots, and scripts. In addition, they made sets and costumes with the assistance of our staff and adult volunteers. Participants were so engaged in the arts programming that many times they chose to skip play time in order to work on the plays.
Book Making
Participants will spend 3 months exploring the genres of fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Each student will write an original fiction, non-fiction, and poetic piece. Their pieces will be divided by grade level and combined into anthologies. Participants will host a poetry slam and book reading event at the end of the session.
Lending Library
Twice a month, the Parks and Recreation's lending library is brought to the after-school program. Books are divided into genres: non-fiction, fiction, picture books, poetry, and chapter books. The most popular books this year have been the Theodore Boone series by John Grisham, the Cupcake Diaries Series by Coco Simon, and the Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park. Ninety-eight percent of participants utilize the lending library.
Book Club
On Mondays, a book club is hosted for first grade participants and a caring adult in their lives. During book club, a book is read to participants and/or participants take turns reading. New vocabulary words from the book are highlighted. A discussion on the book's theme takes place and a thematic activity is completed. Books read in February include Rainbow Fish, I like Myself, and Harry the Dirty Dog.
Other Programs
The Parks and Recreation Department leads city funded project based after-school programs at Liberty, Lincoln, Freedman, Deberry and Beal Elementary Schools.