Learning is Fun

What Happens Next?
Grades K-4

Books with words or actions that appear over and over can help you predict or tell what happens next. These are called “predictable” books. Predictable books will help you understand how stories progress. Now, you can figure out the story in a predictable book – and learn about the writing process at the same time!

What You Need

  • Predictable books with repeated words, phrases, questions, or rhymes. For suggested titles, see Resources for Children.

What to Do

  1. Read predictable books with a parent. Pick a story that has repeated phrases, such as this example from “The Three Little Pigs:” Wolf Voice: Little pig, little pig, let me come in. Little Pig: Not by the hair on my chinny-chin-chin! Wolf Voice: Then I'll huff and I'll puff and I'll blow your house in! As you read, you will learn the repeated phrase!
  2. Once you get the hang of repeating the phrase, read books that give hints about what might happen next. Such books have you lifting flaps, looking through cut-out holes in the pages, “reading” small pictures that stand for words (called “rebuses”), and searching for many other clues.
  3. As you read, guess what is going to happen next!

More to think about:

  • Take turns predicting what is going to happen in the story. Ask other family members and friends to join in!

Source: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Communications and Outreach


Part of a strong body is a strong mind! These homework tips will help you improve your grades and impress your teacher while making learning more fun.

  1. When you are ready to do homework, find a quiet place with plenty of bright light. Turn off the TV and music to help you concentrate.
  2. Gather all the supplies you will need, such as paper, pencils and a dictionary or special art supplies for projects.
  3. Do your homework at the same time each day. Try not to wait until too close to bed time.
  4. Be sure to read the directions your teacher gives you before you start a project.
  5. Work on hard homework first, then easy homework. This will help you get through the tough stuff while you have the most energy.
  6. If you are getting frustrated or having trouble, try taking a short break, and then try again.
  7. Some schools offer tutors who are a little older than you and who can help you after school. Or you can always ask an adult for help, too.
  8. Have a positive attitude! This will help homework time go by faster.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Intergovernmental and Interagency Affairs, Educational Partnerships and Family Involvement Unit
Did you know Howard County Library offers free
homework help from librarians? If you have a question, visit Ask Us Now.








         
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