Lesson Plan
Parent University
| Subject: | Literacy |
| Grade span: | K to 12 |
| Duration: | 90 minutes |
Description:
This lesson is one example of how you can implement a family literacy event. Parent University is a monthly event, designed to get parents and caregivers invested in the school community, while providing tips and tools for families. Topics might include book recommendations, homework help, or the importance of reading at home. The best events target the needs and interests of families.Learning Goals:
- Involve parents in the school/afterschool community
- Engage parents in their child's literacy development
- Invite communication between home and school
- Give parents ideas for reading and writing activities they can use at home
Materials:
- Nametags, pens
- Welcome sign
- Paper products and utensils
- Parent directory
- Books to recommend, student work, or any displays
Preparation:
- Gather and identify a core group of parents to help plan
- Identify the topic for the event, based on parent interest
- Secure expert/presenter and create an agenda
- Assign tasks (greeters, childcare, publicity, etc.)
- Reserve necessary space, equipment, childcare, and food
- Create and distribute flyers and generate publicity
What to Do:
- Set up welcome table with name tags
- Provide social time to build community and let participants enjoy refreshments
- Welcome participants, introduce staff and speaker
- Present topic
- Allow time for follow-up activities, questions, or discussion
- Wrap-up: Thank participants for coming and conduct event evaluation
Evaluate (Outcomes to look for):
- Parent responsiveness, attendance, and engagement
- New ideas from parents
- Parent/student engagement
- Increased parent involvement and communication
- Increased parent awareness about literacy and homework help
