During literacy centers, we use big books to teach reading effectively to our students. We choose books that are predictable, use repeated patterns, refrains, pictures and rhymes so that children can join in on the reading of a book. After reading together as a class, we illustrate our own mini readers to take home. The most important thing about this activity is that even the youngest children will be able to "read" the book and develop the confidence that goes along with that accomplishment.
