Lights dimmed, candles lit and menus set. Mrs. Wulff was ready and prepared to open “Cafe’ de Lit”, the 9th grade book restaurant.

Mrs. Wulff has set a goal for all her 9th grade students this year; to increase each student’s reading level by the end of the academic year. Although there are a variety of  ways that students work on this goal, the most engaging and beneficial to students is to participate in daily sustained silent reading, or SSR. Students are given at least ten minutes in class everyday to read a book of their choice. According to an article written by Karen LoBello, SSR enhances reading enjoyment, increases comprehension, builds vocabulary and improves writing skills. In order for students to choose books of a variety of theme, genre and author, Mrs. Wulff keeps a fully stocked library for the students to ensure that she has books that interest each and every student.

On Monday, February 14th, students walked into Mrs. Wulff’s class and were presented with pre- lit (battery operated) candles, dim lights and a menu for their Cafe De’ Lit Book Tasting, as well as a variety of new-to-the-classroom books. Students were able to sample six different books or “dishes,”   as Mrs. Wulff referred to the books.  Through sampling the books, students were able to experience and interact with the books in a unique way.   “Instead of eating, you’re reading” is how the activity was described to them. After each dish was over, students were asked to rate the book, as well as complete notes about the book, such as title, author, setting and conflict, in order to have a reference point when deciding which books to read during SSR.  After the activity was complete, the dinner guests chose their top 3 books and turned in their list.

I loved the given selections and ability to “taste” a novel to see if we liked it.” – Cassen Gorena, 9th Grade Student

Collectively, the students loved the fact that they were presented with and were able to experience all different types of books and that  they had the ability to explore ideas and genres they love or may come to love in the future. “I want the students to feel like they are being heard, ”  Mrs. Wulff stated when asked why she did the activity.