The idea of using keys to unlock doors was considered as a possible source of motivation for students to read and complete the activities. The idea being that after reading a book, an activity is chosen, completed and reviewed by the teacher. A ‘key’ could then be issued.
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This ‘key’ could be in the form of a raffle ticket (with the number on the ticket being the key to unlock a door featuring the same number that appears on the ticket); a code, or even a picture of a key, whatever works for your situation.
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The ‘key’ has to have an identifying feature on it, for example a number or symbol, that corresponds to the same identifying feature on the door being unlocked.
The ‘keys’ could be used to open a door (or lid) on a cupboard, drawer, box, container, treasure chest or a particular place that could be used to store literary themed incentives. These could be actual prizes, or points to be awarded and then tallied at the end of a term. The teacher and/or students determine how often opportunities are given to have a go at unlocking the doors; it might be fortnightly, monthly, or whatever is deemed suitable. The idea being that the more the student reads, the more activities they complete and then the more ‘keys’ they are eligible to earn which gives them a greater chance of unlocking a ‘door’.
HOW DOES READING OPENS DOORS WORK ?
Flexibility and choice are the cornerstones of this program. It is up to you how you choose to implement the program and this means it can be tailored to best meet the needs of the students using it.
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Reading Opens Doors was chosen as the name for this program because a book is more than the words and story on the pages. When you open an engaging book it is comparable to opening a door – a door to other times, places, people’s lives and adventure. The storyline and cast of characters are the keys which unlock your imagination.