Complexifying Counting Books: Exploring Theme and Number through Interactive Read-Alouds of Multicultural Children’s Literature

• In Event: Roundtable Session II
  In Roundtable Session: Imagination and Representation: Exploring Portrayals of Cultures in Children’s Literature

Abstract

This case-study project aimed to engage elementary-grade students in discussions of number concepts and story themes through read-alouds of multicultural children’s literature. Monthly across one year in a third-grade classroom, a children’s librarian facilitated interactive read-alouds and response activities, engaging in lively discussion with students about number concepts and multicultural themes. Findings from observation and student work data indicate growing sophistication in the ways students grappled with numerical concepts and story themes.

Author

• Antony T Smith, University of Washington Bothell