Reading Olympics

Reading Olympics, What is It?

All interested fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students will have the opportunity to participate in the Montgomery County Reading Olympics. The goal of the Reading Olympics is to increase reading for enjoyment and to promote reading achievement. Students collaborate with their teammates to read 45 books that have been selected by a committee of librarians, reading specialists, and classroom teachers. These professionals read the books and write questions which teams of students answer during the competition. The Olympics are primarily a celebration of reading rather than a contest. The experience is rewarding for everyone!

The basics of Reading Olympics are as follows:

1.   Any child who agrees to read at least ten books from the designated list between now and the end of March may participate.  The books cover a range of reading levels. This is an activity for children who enjoy reading and enjoy working as a team.  The books will be read on your child's own time and are not a part of the classroom literature activities.

2.   There are copies of some of the 45 books available in the school library. The books are available at your local library or can be purchased from a book store. Mrs.Vanni and Mrs. Schlanser also has copies of most of the books from the list which students may borrow.

3.   Each time a student finishes a book, they should take notes which will increase recall when it is time for the competition. Forms for the notes will be provided.

4.   Between the end of September and the competition, we will hold practice rounds so that the children can familiarize themselves with the questioning format. The students will be organized into teams of 8-12 students.  Each team, not individual students, will be expected to have read all 45 titles listed on the attached sheet.  A child can read as many of those titles as they want but must read at least ten by the last week in March.  Students who are not fulfilling their part of the commitment may be asked to withdraw from the competition. 

The actual competition will be held in April or May at a Montgomery County high school. Parents and friends are also invited to attend and cheer for their favorite readers. Please encourage your child to consider making Reading Olympics part of their school experience this year.  If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Vanni at lvanni@ancillae.org or Mrs. Schlanser at dschlanser@ancillae.org .

Please check this page regularly as we will post updates and links to resources for the team.