About this resource
As a follow up to the design challenge with the BFG (see 5th grade lesson plan: I Took the BFG to the Library: Library Use and Accessible Design), students will be asked to brainstorm ways to improve accessibility or functionality of their own libraries. Librarian will ask student groups to walk around and "inspect" the library and think about ways that improvements could be made to make it easier for all students to use. This could include ways to improve accessibility to students with disabilities or ways to make improvements for students to find the exact books they are looking for. Students will be asked to particularly focus on ways that they think they could improve the library for other students and patrons, not just themselves. (Perhaps they would consider the needs of a kindergartener for instance.) Student groups will report back to the librarian with their concerns and ideas. Librarian and class will discuss what would be needed to make the improvement and whether or not it is possible.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Engineering
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
Review the key ideas expressed and draw conclusions in light of information and knowledge gained from the discussions.
What students will do
Students will be able to identify ways in which to improve the library by considering the perspectives of different library users.
Resources Needed
paper, pencils, clipboards if available