from Pixabay

The New Year is always a great time for a fresh start… and often a time for new beginnings.  Why not challenge yourself in the New Year with a goal to read some classic literature?  The Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading program does just that.  Students may choose books for their reading pleasure from a list of books (lists are organized as grades 4-6 and grades 7-8, but students may choose which list to conquer based on ability and interest). Students record the date a book is complete and give it a rating.  Upon completion of an entire list, students can turn in the form to Mrs. Lenahan who will send the list to Mensa for recognition.  To see more details, here is the website: Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading.

If you’re not up for conquering the entire list, it still provides you with some ideas for great reads as you are challenging yourself in your independent reading.  Reading classic literature is valuable because it will help you increase your vocabulary, provide you with the opportunity to understand culture and context, and can even help you boost your emotional/social intelligence.  This kind of reading makes you stretch your brain and you’ll know you are reading something of value as it has withstood the test of time.  When you are finished reading, you’re most likely able to find a film version of the story and this can be a great compare/contrast activity for you too.

Will you rise to the challenge?