Notes from February 6th Tutor Roundtable

At the Tutor Roundtable meeting on February 6, among other things the group discussed the following tutoring concerns:

• One tutor mentioned that while her learner seems very motivated and consistently attends their scheduled sessions, she is worried about the learner becoming bored with what they are working on.

It was suggested that she may want to utilize a variety of instructional methods, connecting with various learning styles, when teaching basic skills. In this way the instructional approach is varied and the same techniques are not always used over and over.

Another suggestion was to ask the learner to write some short pieces about him or herself --often a favorite writing topic. The tutor can then use these writing samples as a starting point for basic skills instruction. The tutor-learner team could even submit the learner's writing for publication in an upcoming issue of Update, the Project Read newsletter.

Finally, it was recommended that the tutor design learning activities that are directly connected to the real-life needs of the adult learner. Even if the tutor is already doing this, it's always a good idea to remind your learner how each instructional activity is directly related to the goal, because it may not always be obvious to the learner him/herself.

• Another tutor brought up the common question of how to measure the learner's progress. The tutor mentioned that her learner likes to read very short novels from the juvenile collection because of the feeling of accomplishment he experiences upon completion, but sometimes the tutor herself does not feel that enough progress is being made.

It was mentioned that sometimes a volunteer tutor needs to let go of his or her own definition of progress and instead focus on what the learner sees as progress which is significant for them. Even seemingly small achievements, like finishing an 80-page book for example, can be huge for the learner. And regularly looking back at all the accomplishments important to your learner can help him or her maintain their motivation and commitment to learning.

# # #

Please join us for the next Tutor Roundtable meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 2, at 6:00 PM in the Project Read Conference Room.

Job Search Class for Adult Learners - Feb. 23

Find the Job You Want -- Pt. 2

At this workshop Project Read learners will...

• Get a tour of the San Francisco Public Library Career Center.
• Learn about where to find additional help with finding a job.
• Learn how to use the new One Stop Job Centers created by the City & County of San Francisco.

Presented by SFPL librarian and former Project Read staff member Richard Le.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

6:00 - 7:30 PM

Main Library

Project Read Conference Room

Please call 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Continuing Ed. Class for Tutors - February 18

Tutor Training Tune-Up with Holly & Randy
Thursday, February 18, 2010
6:00 - 7:30 PM
Main Library -- Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room, Lower Level

A rare chance for follow-up time with your co-tutor-trainers Holly Fulghum-Nutters and Randy Weaver. Bring your questions, observations, and inquiring mind. They'll give you more strategies and food for thought than you can shake a dictionary at.

Please call 415-557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Notes from January 5th Tutor Roundtable

At the January 5th Tutor Roundtable meeting, four Project Read volunteers discussed a number of pertinent topics. Here are just a few...

• A newly-matched tutor mentioned that her learner missed 3 out of 5 scheduled tutoring sessions in December. Although she seems motivated, the tutor is concerned about the developing pattern.

One long-time tutor and current Tutor Contact said that from her experience many pairs have difficulty getting together during the holidays. The Tutor Contact also suggested that the Project Read staff may need to call the learner and make sure she is serious about making a commitment to the program.

• Another tutor spoke about the work she and her learner are doing to improve comprehension. Her learner has chosen a biography to read and as he moves through the book, the tutor is asking various questions to check for understanding. She asked the fellow tutors for ideas about what to do when the learners answers are incorrect.

One suggestion was to ask the learner to point to the portion of the reading that supports his answer to the question. Also, there might be some value to discussing the types of questions which we ask when checking for understanding--literal, interpretive, and active. Other suggestions for teaching comprehension included using the free Wednesday Night Readers book selection which includes comprehension questions, and using the New Readers Press publication News for You which provides comprehension checks for the easy-to-read weekly news articles.

• The Tutor Contact attending the meeting was asked to offer a few suggestions for new tutors based on her years of experience answering questions of Project Read tutors.

She said that from her experience, the relationship that develops between the tutor and learner is crucial to the success of a match. She believes that the learner must develop trust in his or her tutor and also needs to feel that the tutor is a friend.

Community Jobs Forum for Learners & Tutors

The White House is asking for your ideas about jobs in our community; how well our local economy is working and how to create more jobs locally. Join Project Read tutor Annie Leuenberger to discuss your ideas about this important topic. After the meeting she will send your comments directly to Washington D.C.

Speak your mind and make a difference!

Join us on

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

6:00 - 7:30 PM

Main Library - project Read Conference Room & Computer Lab

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Coffee/tea and treats will be served.

Tutor Roundtable Meetings in 2010

Join your fellow volunteer tutors at an upcoming Tutor Roundtable and pick up some new perspectives and fresh techniques to enhance your tutoring skills. And of course, we always provide the pizza.

Here are the dates for upcoming Roundtables in 2010:

• Tuesday, January 5th - 6:00 PM
• Saturday, February, 6th - 1:00 PM
• Tuesday, March 2nd - 6:00 PM
• Saturday, April 3rd - 1:00 PM
• Tuesday, May 4th - 6:00 PM
• Saturday, June 5th - 1:00 PM

All Roundtables take place in the Project Read conference room at the Main Library (100 Larkin St.). Please remember to call 415-557-4388 to RSVP for any of these meetings.

Come to the Holiday Party & Potluck on December 10

Join your fellow tutors, learners, and library staff for Project Read's annual

Holiday Party & Potluck

Thursday, December 10, 2009

6:00 - 8:00 PM

Main Library - Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room, Lower Level

You'll enjoy some great food, music, a free raffle, and special door prizes for everyone.

Friends and family members are always welcome.

Call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend,

and please bring a favorite holiday dish to share.

Continuing Ed. Class for Tutors - October 22

Putting the I in Writing

Thursday, October 22, 2009
6:00 - 7:30 PM
Main Library -- Latino-Hispanic Meeting Rm.

Learn how to encourage your adult learner to express his/her own personal voice and cultural identity in what they write. This ability can motivate your learner to write more and make even better progress toward their personal writing goals.

Presented by Booh Edouardo, Project Read tutor and graduate student at

S.F. State Dept. of English--Composition Program.

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Learner Workshop -- "Find the Job You Want" Pt. 1

Thursday, October 1, 2009

6:00 - 7:30 pm

Project Read Conference Room

Presented by SFPL Librarian (and former Project Read staff member) Richard Le and Project Read Outreach Coordinator Leon Veal.

At this workshop, adult learners will...

• Learn how to organize job search information
  
• Learn how to use online job applications
  
• Learn how to use a flash drive to store job information

At part 2 of this workshop (yet to be scheduled) those attending will learn how to search for a job using the Internet.

Adult learners should call the Project Read office at 415-557-4388 if they plan to attend.

Syllabication Resources from Continuing Education Class

(You may click on these jpg images to enlarge, then print your own copies -- use landscape format when printing.)

Here is a useful instructional tool presented at the August continuing education class for tutors entitled Divide to Conquer. This kinesthetic instructional game can help your learner understand common syllable types and how they are usually spelled and pronounced. Thanks to Project Read tutor, and former literacy program director, Lucille Cuttler for helping to present the workshop and for creating this learning tool.

The first grid contains examples of six syllable types. The second is blank so that you and your learner can plug-in syllables from words being studied in your tutoring sessions. Much more information on syllable types is available in your tutor training materials: LITSTART--pages 160 - 167, Tutor Training Manual -- pages. 50 & 51.

Notes from September 1st Tutor Roundtable

At Project Read's September Tutor Roundtable meeting there was a lively discussion by the tutors concerning a variety of instructional topics.

• One tutor mentioned that he and his learner had been working on the topic of African-American history. His learner enjoys doing research on the Internet and they have found a wealth of reading material while using the Project Read computer lab. When his learner has trouble with a word, they focus on breaking it down into syllables. It was suggested that they might also look at the 3rd floor Project Read collection at the Main Library which includes many easy-to-read books on the subject of African-American history.


• Another tutor has been helping her learner focus on pronouncing and writing word endings correctly. To do this they have been spending time breaking words down and looking at spelling patterns associated with the common word endings.


• The challenge of teaching grammar was also discussed. A tutor mentioned that he has had success using Write All About It, a comprehensive grammar workbook available FREE in the Project Read office for tutor-learner teams. He and his learner will soon start working on the learner's goal of writing personal letters--a good opportunity to reinforce grammar skills introduced in the workbook.


• The tutors also discussed ways to encourage learners to get their thoughts down on paper. One method suggested was the good old mind mapping technique introduced during tutor training. Another reminder was to always begin with a topic of interest to the learner or bring in photos or newspaper articles for the learner to respond to in writing.


• One final tip offered by a tutor was on the topic of planning the tutoring session. She said that initially her sessions had been one and a half hours in length, but she found that a lot of time was being consumed by chit chat before the actual instruction could begin. She decided to simply add that time to the overall session length. She's meeting with her learner for two hours now, but making sure that a smooth transition occurs between the time for socializing and instruction.

Continuing Ed. Class for Tutors -- August 20

DIVIDE AND CONQUER!
Discover strategies to help your learner master those pesky multi-syllable words and unlock the gateway to spelling ease and increased comprehension.

Presented by: Lucille Cuttler, Learning Specialist
& Randy Weaver, Project Read Manager

Thursday, August 20, 2009
6:00—7:30 p.m.
Main Library — Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room — Lower Level

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Join Your Fellow Tutors at an Upcoming Roundtable Meeting

Tutor Round Table meetings are opportunities for Project Read tutors to come together to share their successful instructional strategies and get some new ideas for materials and techniques that can enhance the tutoring effort. These informal meetings take place in the Project Read Conference Room on the 2nd floor of the Main Library and tasty refreshments are always provided.

Here is a schedule of Round Table meetings for the next few months. Please call 415-557-4388 beforehand if you plan to attend.

• Tuesday, July 7 -- 6:00 - 7:30 pm
• Saturday, August 1 -- 1:00 - 2:30 pm
• Tuesday, September 1 -- 6:00 - 7:30 pm
• Saturday, October 24 -- 1:00 - 2:30 pm
• Tuesday, November 10 -- 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Join Us for the Annual Tutor - Learner Recognition June 4, 2009

A special evening to honor Project Read’s
learners & tutors

Featuring:
* Fine Music * Tasty Food * Volunteer Service Awards
* Project Read Learners as Guest Speakers

Thursday, June 4, 2009
6:00 — 8:00 p.m.
Main Library — Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room — Lower Level

Bring your friends and family!

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Magazine Highlights Wednesday Night Readers Book Club

The Wednesday Night Readers in Action (Photo by Brian)

The April 2009 issue of The Clarion, a publication of the California Library Association, features an excellent article all about Project Read's Wednesday Night Readers Book Club (pages 9 - 11). The author of this article is John Gildersleeve who is co-facilitator of the book club and 15-year-volunteer with Project Read. Mary Hilton (current co-facilitator), and Renee Feldman (previous co-facilitator) also contributed to this article. John did an outstanding job of capturing what makes the Wednesday Night Readers special and empowering .

The entire April issue of The Clarion is dedicated to the 25th anniversary of California Library Literacy Services and features some excellent perspectives on library-based literacy efforts.

Please click the image below to view or download the on-line PDF version of this publication. Enjoy!

Continuing Education Class for Tutors - April 22

Instructional Resources Tune-Up

Join Brian and Randy for an empowering review of Project Read’s many instructional aids, workbooks, and technology resources that can help enhance your teaching of phonics, spelling, writing, and comprehension skills.

Tasty treats will be served.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009
6:00 — 7:30 p.m.
Main Library — Project Read Conference Room & Computer Lab
Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Tutor-Learner Teams: Join the Wednesday Night Readers Book Club

This is the schedule of books being read and discussed over the next few months by Project Read's Wednesday Night Readers book club. Pick up your FREE books and audio books and make plans to attend one of these exciting and rewarding discussions. We make unabridged audio books available so that learners at any reading level can participate in the discussion. Adult learners do not have to finish the entire book to attend the meetings.

The Member of the Wedding, a play by Carson McCullers (books & audio books available February 26, discussed at March 25 meeting -- 118 pages)

Carson McCullers’ The Member of the Wedding is only one of two plays written by the author and by far the most successful. Adapted from her 1946 novel of the same name, this play depicts the interwoven lives of whites and blacks in the American South, and the poignant turmoil of adolescence. The March 25 meeting will feature a special performance by professional actors from the local Screen Actors Guild.

The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho (books & audio books available March 26, discussed at April 29 meeting -- 208 pages)

The charming tale of Santiago, a shepherd boy, who dreams of seeing the world, is compelling in its own right, but gains resonance through the many lessons Santiago learns during his adventures. He journeys from Spain to Morocco in search of worldly success, and eventually to Egypt, where a fateful encounter with an alchemist brings him at last to self-understanding and spiritual enlightenment. The story has the comic charm, dramatic tension and psychological intensity of a fairy tale, but it's full of specific wisdom as well, about becoming self-empowered, overcoming depression, and believing in dreams. The cumulative effect is like hearing a wonderful bedtime story from an inspirational psychiatrist.

Sounder by William H. Armstrong (books & audio books available April 30, discussed at May 27 meeting -- 126 pages)

Winner of the 1970 Newbery Medal and the basis of an acclaimed film, Sounder traces the keen sorrow and the abiding faith of a poor African-American boy in the 19th-century South. The boy's father is a sharecropper, struggling to feed his family in hard times. Night after night, he and his great coon dog, Sounder, return to the cabin empty-handed. Then, one morning, almost like a miracle, a sweet-smelling ham is cooking in the family's kitchen. At last the family will have a good meal. But that night, an angry sheriff and his deputies come, and the boy's life will never be the same.

Angels of Morgan Hill by Donna VanLiere (books & audio books available May 28, discussed at June 24 meeting - 290 pages)

In 1947, there aren't any black families in the town of Morgan Hill, TN, until the Turners arrive to help on a tobacco farm. Nine-year-old Jane Gable first sees young Milo Turner when she is on the way home from her abusive father's funeral. Although the impression is vivid, she has no idea how closely their lives will become entangled. Jane's memories capture a child's-eye view of the confusing adult world.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck (books & audio books available June 24, discussed at July 29 meeting -- 107 pages)

The tragic story of the complex bond between two migrant laborers in Central California. They are George Milton and Lennie Small, itinerant ranch hands who dream of one day owning a small farm. George acts as a father figure to Lennie, who is a very large, simpleminded man, calming him and helping to reign in his immense physical strength.

Project Read Honored with National Award

On February 4, we heard the news that Project Read will receive the 2009 Advancement of Literacy Award presented by the Public Library Association and Library Journal.

Here is a brief description of the award from the Public Library Association website:

Advancement of Literacy Award honors a publisher, bookseller, hardware and/or software dealer, foundation or similar group (i.e., not an individual) that has made a significant contribution to the advancement of adult literacy. A plaque is awarded annually at the ALA Annual Conference. Established in 1984. Sponsored by Library Journal.

Some of the previous recipients have included: Verizon Foundation, The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund, The Bell Atlantic Foundation, READ San Diego, New Readers Press, and Michigan Literacy, Inc.

We look forward to traveling to Chicago this July to accept this important award at the American Library Association's annual conference.

Thanks to the San Francisco Public Library, our incredible volunteer tutors, and courageous adult learners for helping Project Read to be recognized and honored on a national level.

Continuing Education Class for Tutors - Feb. 19

Using Poetry to Enrich Basic Literacy Instruction

Presented by Randy Weaver — Project Read Manager

Join us for this fun and interactive workshop where you will discover how poetry and song lyrics can be used to teach basic skills while adding variety and excitement to your sessions.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

6:00 — 7:30 p.m.

Main Library—Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room—Lower Level

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Join Your Fellow Tutors at a Tutor Roundtable

Tutor Roundtables are offered monthly and provide our volunteers with an opportunity to share their experiences, ideas, and successes with other tutors and Project Read staff. These informal meetings are a great way to learn new instructional strategies and obtain all kinds of valuable tutoring tips from fellow tutors. Here is a schedule of upcoming Roundtable meetings:

• Tuesday, January 6 -- 6:00 PM
• Saturday, February 7 -- 1:00 PM
• Tuesday, March 3 -- 6:00 PM
• Saturday, April 4 -- 1:00 PM
• Tuesday, May 5 -- 6:00 PM
• Saturday, June 6 -- 1:00 PM

All Roundtable meetings take place in the Project Read conference room on the 2nd floor of the Main Library. Refreshments are provided. Please call the office (415-557-4388) if you plan to attend any of these meetings.

Thanks for Celebrating with Us!!

A view of the main floor atrium splendidly decorated for the party.

We'd like to thank everyone who helped us celebrate Project Read's Silver Anniversary on October 27th at the Main Library. We would not be celebrating 25 years of service were it not for the dedicated learners, tutors, library staff, and community partners who have been part of the Project Read family.

A special thank you to the learner-tutor teams who served as program MC's for the evening: William Barrett & Andrew Belschner; Noel Hernandez & June Nakajima; Mario ST. Rose & Marianne Oest; Monica Barrera & Anjolie Chidambaram; Ruby Trejo & Linda Dusanic, and former Project Read learner Carlos Soto.

A highlight of the evening was a special music and interpretive dance performance based on the writing of a former Project Read learner. Cuddles the Cockroach, a four-part story, is one of the selections contained in the Silver Anniversary Collection, a book of learner writing selected from two decades of submissions to the Project Read Update newsletter. If you were unable to attend the anniversary event, please come by the office and pick up a free copy of this fabulous book.

25th Anniversary Celebration - October 27 !

Join us to Celebrate Project Read's
Silver Anniversary
Monday, October 27
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Main Library
(Entrance on Larkin Street only - the library will be closed to the public)

The celebration will include:

• Complimentary food and beverages
• A Tell Your Story Station to capture your memories of Project Read
  (video and audio recording)
• Project Read tutor & learner teams to MC the proceedings
• Featured guest speakers
• Volunteer & community service awards
• A complimentary book of learner writings, selected from two decades of submissions to the Project Read newsletter, FREE to all who attend.
• A special musical and theatrical performance based on one of the selections from this book

Please make plans to join us and bring your friends and family.

Call the Project Read office (415-557-4388) to RSVP.

Continuing Education Class for Tutors - October 23

Reading for Meaning

Understanding what we read is really the whole point of reading. Yet, practicing comprehension can sometimes be the most challenging aspect of literacy tutoring. In this workshop we will take a look at research that shows what reading for meaning entails. Then, we will practice all sorts of comprehension-boosting tutoring strategies you can use with your student. And, we'll have a good time in the process!

Presented by Amy Prevedel, literacy professional and former coordinator of Berkeley Reads.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

6:00—7:30 p.m.

Main Library—Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room—Lower Level

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.

Join the Wednesday Night Rearers Book Club

Here is the schedule of books being read and discussed by Project Read's Wednesday Night Readers book club over the next few months. Look over these titles with your adult learner, pick up your FREE books and audio books, and make plans to attend one of these exciting and rewarding discussions. We make unabridged audio books available so that learners at any reading level can participate in the discussion. Learners do not have to finish the entire book to attend the discussion.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney (discussed at the October 29 meeting, books/audio books available September 26.) On a quiet fall evening in a small, peaceful town in northern California, Dr. Miles Bennell discovered an insidious, horrifying plot. Silently, subtly, almost imperceptibly, alien life-forms were taking over the bodies and minds of his neighbors, his friends, his family, the woman he loved – the world as he knew it. First published in 1955, this classic thriller of the ultimate alien invasion and triumph of the human spirit over an invisible enemy inspired three major motion pictures. (216 pages)

For One More Day by Mitch Albom (discussed at the December 3 meeting—one week later because of Thanksgiving—books/audio books available October 30) This is the story of a mother and a son, and a relationship that covers a lifetime and beyond. It explores the question: What would you do if you could spend one more day with a lost loved one? As a child, Charley was told by his father, "You can be a mama's boy or a daddy's boy, but you can't be both." So he chooses his father, only to see the man disappear when Charley is on the verge of adolescence. Decades later, Charley is a broken man. His life has been crumbled by alcohol and regret. He loses his job. He leaves his family. He hits bottom after discovering his only daughter has shut him out of her wedding. After deciding to take his own life, he makes a midnight ride to his small hometown only to discover that his mother--who died eight years earlier–-is still living there, and welcomes him home as if nothing ever happened. (197 pages)

The Shape Shifter by Tony Hillerman (discussed at the January 28 meeting, books/audio books available December 4) In Tony Hillerman's The Shape Shifter, a lot is riding on a little mysterious carpet. Not any old welcome mat, but a precious Navajo tale-teller rug, full of portents, interwoven with bits of bark and feathers. Supposed to have been burned in a fire years before, the priceless artifact turns up in the pages of an interiors magazine, shown on the wall of a rich man named Jason Delos. After it's spotted by Joe Leaphorn, a retired Navajo policeman and an old colleague of his, the story travels through an elaborate investigation of theft and murder. (276 pages)

A Call to Conscience: The Landmark Speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (discussed at the February 25 meeting, books/audio books available January 29) Throughout the 1950s and 60s, the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led the Civil Rights movement, inspiring generations and transforming the future of the United States. This collection includes the text of Dr. King’s best-known oration, I Have a Dream, his acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize, and Beyond Vietnam, a compelling argument for ending the conflict. (223 pages)

Library Literacy Funding Alert

Gentle Reader,

As you may know, there have been some difficulties this year in balancing the California State Budget. The Governor’s current proposal includes a 10% cut across the board. This includes Education Code 4.6 California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Services Program 18880-18884, Line Item in 08/09 Proposed Budget 6120-213-0001 which provides funding to programs such as Project Read.

We recently found out that there is a proposal from some members of the State Senate to help balance the budget by suspending all funding to California Library Literacy Services.

Many library literacy staff members, tutors, learners, and other supporters are contacting the proponents of this proposal by phone, post, and / or e-mail to suggest that dismantling these vital, and cost-effective, services is not in the best interest of the State of California.

You can get detailed ongoing information on this matter by clicking on the following links to the California Library Association website http://www.cla-net.org/weblog and http://capwiz.com/ala/ca/issues/alert/?alertid=11904546&type=CU.

All the best, Brian

Notes from August Tutor Round Table Meeting

On Saturday, August 2, six volunteer tutors came together to discuss their tutoring experiences at the monthly Round Table Meeting. Here are a few of the topics that were discussed along with the instructional strategies that were suggested.

One tutor mentioned that his learner continues to struggle with word recognition and spelling of relatively simple words.

• It was suggested that the tutor-learner team might try using the Ultimate Phonics software in the computer lab to further reinforce the basics of sound-symbol relationships and spelling patterns.
• Another suggestion was to work dictionary skills into the tutoring sessions so that the learner can better understand how to identify syllables and pronunciation.
  
• Another good idea involved teaching spelling and vocabulary words from materials that correspond to the interests and goals of the learner. In this way, the learner will be more motivated to learn the words.
  

A tutor in the meeting mentioned that he could use some fresh approaches to helping his learner improve basic writing skills.

• One tutor suggested asking the learner to write about TV show they view regularly. This exercise would make writing easier since the subject is something they have a great interest in.
• Another suggestions was to use the picture response method to generate a writing sample. The tutor might use photos from the newspaper, magazines, or even personal photos that the learner could bring in.
• It was also suggested that perhaps the learner could get involved with the Wednesday Night Readers Book Club and find some interesting reading material to write about. Learners who participate in the book club also have access to the unabridged audio book so even if they might struggle with the reading level, they can still listen to the story and write about their reactions.
  

Continuing Education Class for Tutors - August 21

Thursday August 21, 2008
6-7:45pm
1st Floor Conference Rm.
(Strong Room)

—

Beyond the Language Experience Story

Join Emily Wilson to explore clear and directly applicable interview techniques to help your learner discover the power of his/her own personal story and then translate it into compelling writing.

Emily Wilson is a City College of San Francisco instructor with considerable experience in adult literacy and education. She is also a freelance reporter who recently helped facilitate the KALW Radio oral history project Stories During Wartime: An Intergenerational Conversation (www.kalw.org/Wartime.html).

Call (415) 557-4388 to reserve your space - you’ll be mighty pleased that you did.

Sharpen Your Tutoring Skills at Upcoming Round Table Meetings

Here are the dates for upcoming Tutor Round Table meetings at the Main Library. Make plans to join your fellow Project Read tutors for a lively discussion of instructional strategies and common sense advice. We'll provide the pizza and you can provide the helpful collaboration.

• Tuesday, July 1 -- 6:00 - 7:30 PM
• Saturday, August 2 -- 1:00 - 2:30 PM
• Tuesday, September 2 -- 6:00 - 7:30 PM
• Saturday, October 4 -- 1:00 - 2:30 PM
• Tuesday, November 18 -- 6:00 - 7:30 PM

All Round Table Meetings are held in the conference room in the Project Read office.

Notes from June 7 Tutor Round Table

At the June 7 Tutor Round Table meeting, eight volunteer tutors covered a wide range of topics relating to the instruction of their adult learners. This well-attended discussion was an example of a Tutor Round Table at its best. Each tutor described a particular challenge they were facing and then they heard from other tutors who offered a number of fresh ideas that could be put to use. The tutors also had a lot to say in praise of their adult learners who are making strong commitments to learning, taking on new goals, and making notable progress. Here are a few tips offered by tutors (and staff) at the June 7 meeting:

On teaching writing skills:

• Try working on writing assignments associated with real life needs -- thank you notes, wedding vows, work related e-mail, etc.
• As a motivator, discuss contributing a piece of writing for publication in the Project Read newsletter.
• If your learner has trouble completing writing assignments at home, make writing a part of your tutoring session and use this material for instruction.

On G.E.D. preparation:

• Help the adult learner establish a system or structure for studying that works with their particular learning style.
• Help the adult learner understand that passing the G.E.D. can be a long term goal, but that it's one that is easy to break down into the necessary short term objectives. The Project Read book collection at the Main has a good selection of materials to help the tutor-learner team with this goal.

On word recognition:

• For as learner who has no interest in memorizing phonics & spelling rules (and there are probably many of those) try using the software available in the computer lab, specifically Spell It Deluxe and Ultimate Phonics. These programs teach spelling and phonics in a fairly non-threatening way with a lot of built in practice and repetition.
  
• Use word pattern exercises, or try using the very helpful book called Say the Word: a Guide to Improving Word Recognition Skills available in the Project Read office.
  
• Use pleasure reading materials as a basis for word recognition instruction. For learners participating in the Wednesday Night Readers book club, the tutor-learner team can work on problem text throughout the month as part of their regular tutoring sessions.
  

Join the Book Club with Your Learner

Here is the schedule of books being read and discussed by Project Read's Wednesday Night Readers book club over the next few months. Please discuss these titles with your learner and make plans to pick up your FREE books and audio books and attend one of these exciting discussions. We make unabridged audio books available so that learners at any reading level can participate in the discussion. And look for special Movie Nights when we show film versions of these titles.

Cannery Row by John Steinbeck (discussed at June 25th meeting, books/audio books available May 28)

Of all Steinbeck's novellas, Cannery Row is the simplest story. It presents a slice of the lives of the men and women who populate a strip of sardine canneries after the workers go home. Set on California's Monterey Peninsula in the days long before famed golf courses and resorts, this post-depression tale depicts the life of an uproarious cast of characters: Lee Chong, the philosophical grocery store proprietor; Doc, the owner of the Western Biological Laboratory; Dora, the charitable Madame of the Bear Flag Restaurant, Mack, Hazel and Eddie and Hughie and Jones, the well-meaning residents of the Palace Flophouse, and, most important, Cannery Row herself, in all her ugliness and beauty, peace and violence. (192 pages)

Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo (discussed at July 30 meeting, available June 25)

Because of Winn-Dixie, a big, ugly, happy dog, 10-year-old Opal learns 10 things about her long-gone mother from her preacher father. Because of Winn-Dixie, Opal makes new friends among the somewhat unusual residents of her new hometown, Naomi, Florida. Because of Winn-Dixie, Opal begins to find her place in the world and let go of some of the sadness left by her mother's abandonment seven years earlier. With her newly adopted, goofy pooch at her side, Opal explores her bittersweet world and learns to listen to other people's lives. This warm and winning book hosts an unforgettable cast of characters (192 pages)

The Natural by Bernard Malmud (discussed at August 27 meeting, available July 30)

Bernard Malamud’s first novel, published in 1952, is also the first—and some would say still the best—novel ever written about baseball. It is the story of a superbly gifted “natural” at play in the fields of the old daylight baseball era. This novel was the basis of the film of the same name starring Robert Redford. (237 pages)

Assassination Vacation by Sarah Vowell (discussed at September 24 meeting, available August 27)

What do you get when a woman who's obsessed with death and U.S. history goes on vacation? -- This wacky, weirdly enthralling exploration of the first three presidential assassinations. Vowell, a contributor to NPR's This American Life, takes readers on a pilgrimage of sorts to the sites and monuments that pay homage to Lincoln, Garfield and McKinley, visiting everything from grave sites and simple plaques to places like the National Museum of Health and Medicine, where fragments of Lincoln's skull are on display. An expert tour guide, Vowell brings into sharp focus not only the figures involved in the assassinations, but the social and political circumstances that led to each-and she does so in the witty, sometimes irreverent manner that her fans have come to expect. (272 pages)

Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney (discussed at October 29 meeting, available September 24)

On a quiet fall evening in the small, peaceful town of Mill Valley, California, Dr. Miles Bennell discovered an insidious, horrifying plot. Silently, subtly, almost imperceptibly, alien life-forms were taking over the bodies and minds of his neighbors, his friends, his family, the woman he loved -- the world as he knew it. First published in 1955, this classic thriller of the ultimate alien invasion and the triumph of the human spirit over an invisible enemy inspired three major motion pictures. (224 pages)

National Volunteer Week Treat

(Non-redeemable sample of the discount coupon letter)

Gentle Reader,

In recognition of National Volunteer Week (April 27 - May 3, 2008), our good friends at Stacey's Booksellers are once again honoring all Project Read volunteers by offering to them a whopping 20% discount on the purchase of any books in stock. This generous offer is valid until June 30, 2008.

On April 21st we mailed letters containing a 20% discount coupon to all active Project Read volunteers. If you are an active Project Read of the San Francisco Public Library volunteer and have not received your letter/discount coupon, then please contact the Project Read office and we'll make things right.

All the best, Brian

Tutor Training Tune-Up Tomorrow

Gentle Tutor,

Please accept this reminder that 6:00p.m. tomorrow night (Tuesday April 22, 2008) is a rare chance for follow-up time with our co-tutor-trainer Holly Fulghum-Nutters. Bring your questions, observations, and inquiring mind. She’ll give you more strategies and food for thought than you can shake a dictionary at!

Give us a call at 557-4388 if you can join us. Biscotti will be served.

All the best, Brian

Library Legislative Day

Hey Folks,

As you may know, there is a proposed 10% cut to the California State Budget. This includes public libraries and the many services they provide to our community - including literacy services such as Project Read.

Tomorrow, Wednesday April 16, 2008 is Library Legislative Day. Many library staff members and supporters will visit Sacramento to meet with their local representatives and inform them of the importance of libraries. Many others will contact their representatives by phone, post, and e-mail to suggest that cutting these vital services is not in the best interest of the State of California.

If you are interested in finding out more about this event, and perhaps even participating, then please click on this link to the California Library Association.

If you would like to find contact information for your local representatives, then please click on this link to the Easy Voter Guide.

All the best, Brian

Randy, Double Daddy-O

(Click on the images below to view larger versions)

They’ve arrived!

Randy Weaver and his wife Bridget are the happy parents of healthy twin baby girls born on March 25, 2008.

Nora Kathleen: born 1:07 pm, 5 lbs 13 oz, 19 inches long.
Lily Anne: born 1:08 pm, 7 lbs 3 oz, 19.5 inches long.

Mother and father are resting comfortably, for now.

Help Us Plan a 25th Anniversary Celebration

2008 Marks the 25th Anniversary of Project Read

We’d like to put together a team of learners and tutors to help us plan an exciting event to be held this fall. If you would like to participate as a member of this planning committee (probably involving no more than one meeting a month to start) please let us know by calling (415) 557-4388. If you have further questions, please ask for Randy.

We are hoping to make this a special celebration which everyone will enjoy, but to do so we will need your help.

To get you in the mood, here’s a link to our January 2004 newsletter which featured pictures from our 20th Anniversary Party (on pages 8 & 9). Just click on the thumbnail below.

Continuing Education Class for Tutors

Thursday, February 21, 2008

6:00 — 7:30 p.m.

Main Library, Latino-Hispanic Meeting Room—Lower Level

Syllabify to Identify

Join literacy professional Lucille Cuttler to explore how knowledge of common syllable types improves spelling and decoding skills. Count on seeing fun strategies that build on material in your initial tutor training. Also discover how to reinforce this learning in the computer lab.

Please call (415) 557-4388 if you plan to attend.