How might we improve literacy skills in first and second graders?
Mission accomplished! Open Book Adventures (OBA) is a Project Good program for first and second grade learners to work one-on-one with a high school mentor to develop literacy skills and find joy in learning. This six-week session’s “Special Agents” theme tasked buddies to work their way through “case file” activity books in order to unlock a love of reading and writing!
Each Monday of OBA, 31 pairs of young students and high school mentors met at One Stone headquarters to practice reading sight words, learn new vocabulary, unscramble clues, and write stories about using special gadgets to save the day. Pairs read books together, played literacy games, and enjoyed a healthy snack to provide energy for imaginative adventures. During the fourth week, students even had the opportunity to read to therapy dogs! Young buddies gained a fun and caring near-peer mentor while the high school students expanded their skills in leadership, problem-solving, creativity, and empathy.
At the end of the six week mission, families gathered to celebrate the hard work and growth of their special agents at Open Book Adventures graduation. Each agent received a book to take home and a certificate of accomplishment for completing their mission. Guides shared fun memories of adventures with their buddies and encouraged them to complete more literary missions in the future!
Outcomes:
100% of parents said their child was excited to attend Open Book Adventures each week.
100% of parents said their child enjoyed spending time with their high school Adventure Guide.
Parent feedback:
“I think the communication from guides to buddies is great. They talk at their level and make them feel very important.”
“My daughter has been reading and challenging herself so much since starting OBA. It's been a perfect compliment to her learning at school.”
“My child has gone to five OBA sessions now, this being her last year. It has been so great for developing her love for reading and her ability as a reader.”
“This is the best reading program at this level!”
