The Philosophy behind Children’s Books – Empowering Instruction, Empowering Students

Participating in philosophical discussions and Socratic type of learning is essential for 21st century learners. Enhancing one’s students to be motivated and think critically of the world around them is tantamount to the Common Core standards of learning in all subject matters. The study of the philosophy behind picture books and their authors captivates students and infuses morality and integrity into their worlds. In this course, teachers will be exposed to a plethora of children’s books from all disciplines. They will learn to critically analyze, judge, delineate, and closely comprehend the genre in order to devise pertinent lessons for their students. Teachers will walk away with a plethora of interdisciplinary lessons that collectively forge bonds between their learners. A must for K-12 educators.
Participants will be able to:
• Select from a wide range of children’s books in order to delve into philosophical ideas and current ELA research
• Draw inferences from renowned picture book authors in order to instruct their students on pertinent philosophical issues
• Enhance their classrooms via current research on literature in the classroom via ELA techniques/Social Studies techniques, and Science/Math strategies
• Participants will be able to implement philosophical trends in their classrooms via picture books
• Participants will be able to create lessons that integrate all aspects of literacy via children’s books
• Participants will design a medley of critical thinking lessons that target their audiences via Common Core instruction
Participants will complete activities, lessons, and design assessments that they will bring back to their students. They will be able to understand the inner workings of picture books and how they transcend classrooms and motivate students. They will complete a cooperative group assignment, weaving all aspects of the course together fully.

ON-LINE (3 credits/45 hours) in-service credit only