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The purpose of this program is to:
encourage students to read, especially for their own interests and enjoyment
reinforce that reading regularly can improve performance in academics and life
generate meaningful discussions around books and reading
offer recognition to students who make reading a priority (lit cords for graduation)
ultimately help you become a confident and curious life-time reader
To earn lit cords for graduation:
Students must read 10 complete books each school year, but since we're kicking off this program in 2025:
Seniors can backdate to June, 2025 and must complete 8 books for the 2025/2026.
Juniors can backdate to June, 2025 and must complete 8 books for the 2025/2026 and 10 books for the 2026/2027 school year.
Sophomores can backdate to June, 2025 and must complete 8 books for the 2025/2026 and 10 books for the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 school years.
Freshmen will begin at the beginning of the process.
Books can be read during summer vacation or anytime during the school year.
Books required for a class count towards the total if they are read in their entirety.
Students must record the books they are reading using this form.
Once complete, print off the form and bring it to your book talk.
After your book talk, you and your Otter Time teacher will sign the form.
Once signed, bring your form to Mr. Scharnberg in the media center.
Students must complete one “book talk” during each school year.
What is a book talk?
Students wishing to earn literacy cords to be worn at graduation, must complete one book talk each year with their advisory teacher. The format of the book talk may vary, but most book talks will take one of two forms: Either format may include specific questions posed by the advisor to help students articulate characters, plot, connections or other aspects of the reading experience.
The student shares their book in a verbal format to the rest of their Otter Time group or a selected group of Otter Time students.
The student engages in a discussion about the book with their advisor.
Both formats will require a visual aid such as a poster or Google Slides.
Beyond the Cord!
Along the way, students will receive small mementos to honor their progress.
10 books = Inclusion on the "Wall of Readers"
20 books = Funny Book Lovers Pin
30 books = Nice bookmark
And an end-of-year-celebration that involves food.
Besides extrinsic motivators, Otters Read is an academic honor that can be included on résumés, college apps, and scholarship forms. Also, the value of completing the program extends far beyond graduation day.
Summary
Read your books.
Record your books.
Print your record sheet.
Do your book talk.
Sign your record sheet.
Bring your record sheet to Mr. Scharnberg in the library.
**Credit for this program idea goes to Katie Fabyanske at Forest Lake High School, MN
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