Reaching Children: Integrated Planning Around Anchor Books | ECM Element 5

Session Description:  This session will explore integrated planning around anchor books and looks at the school/site’s efforts to develop curricular experiences integrated around a culturally preserving, developmentally-appropriate anchor book with repeated reads. In this approach, teachers plan and implement activities that connect with a selected book to extend learning throughout the day. Focus words and story-related concepts come alive at morning meeting, center time, small groups, and transitions, providing children with multiple opportunities to continue their engagement with the story and the new content.

Why does it matter?
When teachers make connections across the day, they support children to develop their comprehension and vocabulary, enhance critical thinking skills, and build world knowledge – all while creating meaningful and memorable experiences for children. The practice of planning and teaching around anchor books creates opportunities for children of all ages to connect with themselves, each other, and their world. As children have the opportunity to practice new vocabulary in meaningful ways, their ability to express themselves grows and they can ask more questions, communicate their ideas, and advocate for themselves and others more effectively.