By third grade, students at Shoemaker Elementary already have “published author” added to their accomplishments.

Katie Rathe, a third grade teacher at Shoemaker, leads her students through a unique classroom project: writing, illustrating and publishing their very own book. 

Even though the students are writing, they’re learning so much more than one subject. Rathe connects the book project to the CKLA (core knowledge language arts) curriculum, so students are connecting science, social studies, language arts, and creative arts. Rathe teaches students the entire writing process, following steps of drafting, editing, and revising.

“[The book project] just kind of fit in with our unit on animal classification,” Rathe said. “We focused on what aspects make each animal that type of animal, and then they use that vocabulary.” 

Students delved into the characteristics and traits of various animals, using their newfound knowledge to write clues for a "Guess Who" style book. Each student focused on a different animal, crafting descriptions that were both informative and intriguing. 

"We talked about all the different aspects and traits of animals," Rathe explained, "connecting that from CKLA into their writing." 

The project encouraged students to use newly acquired vocabulary and think critically about how to describe their chosen animal without giving it away too easily. The result? A collection of unique animal profiles, ranging from common creatures to the more exotic, like the honey guide bird and the axolotl.

Rathe has been doing the project since she started teaching in 2010, and brought the project to Shoemaker when she joined the school staff 4 years ago. The project has become a beloved tradition, evolving and adapting each year. 

The core purpose? Ignite students’ passion for learning, and show them that learning is fun.

“I love to see the growth in students,” Rathe said. “I love to see them learning about things that they love, or finding the things that they love.”

She said it’s easy to focus on what needs to be done with learning and then lose the fun. Rathe said that’s one of the reasons she and her students love the book project – it connects all aspects of learning and really makes it fun.

“We're still covering the standards. They're still growing in their knowledge. They're still learning what they need to learn. But it can also be fun and excite the students and make them want to continue doing the learning,” Rathe said.  

And the impact of the book project extends beyond the classroom walls. Parents express their appreciation for the unique and engaging learning experience. The published books become treasured keepsakes, showcasing the students' hard work and creativity. 

The project ends with a publishing party, complete with staff guests, further emphasizing the students' accomplishment. Though the classroom shares a printed copy, Rathe said families have the option to purchase their own published copy. Some families generously donate copies for other students, which she said is awesome to see. 

For Rathe, teaching is all about creating a fun and supportive learning environment where students can explore their potential. 

“I just want the kids to know that I love them, and I'll take care of them, and I'll always do what's best for them, and to just have fun along the way,” Rathe remarked.

The published book project perfectly embodies this philosophy, demonstrating that learning can be both fun and meaningful. By becoming published authors, these third graders at Shoemaker not only develop their writing skills, but also gain a sense of accomplishment that will stay with them.

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