John Cline first grade reading teachers awarded grant for agricultural books

John Cline first grader Cash Turner reads "How to Grow a Carrot," by Matthew Hugo

John Cline Elementary School first grade reading teachers Cheryl Huebner, Stacy Williams and Andrea Knack have been awarded a grant through the Iowa Agricultural Literacy Foundation.

With the funding the teachers have purchased 30 books about agriculture. These were selected to meet the educational needs of developing readers and to teach children about agriculture.

Each title pertains to agricultural themes and reinforces agricultural concepts, vocabulary and information. Some of the titles include "Pigs," by Cathy Smith, "How to Grow a Carrot," by Matthew Hugo, "Horses," by Michele Dufresne, "From Seed to Apple," by Ruth Mattison, and "Gardening," by Rose Lewis.

Students will read, discuss and write about agricultural topics included in these books.  Books will be sent home to read with parents.  Students will also practice reading to other students and teachers to improve fluency.