So I was teaching AP Literature in a classroom one day, and the desks were set up in such a way that my students and I were reminded of speed dating. We discussed, somewhat in jest, the idea of speed dating poetry. (I do still intend to develop that idea.) When I got back to my library, I met with the 10th grade teacher about book talks I had planned. We were doing banned and challenged books for most of the sections, but wanted something a bit more intriguing for the academic students who are reluctant readers. Speed dating was at the forefront of my brain, so we decided to pursue a speed dating activity to introduce these readers to some high interest and lower level books that are often overlooked. Without much time to plan I took my “fresh” and “original” idea to the internet looking for forms that I didn’t think really existed. To my surprise (not really) speed dating ideas abounded. For the tenth grade I used a version of the form found on Pinterest.

I had enough success with these tenth graders that I decided to pursue a speed dating activity with the entire 7th grade. For February, I thought it would be a unique twist on my monthly book talks. Fortunately I have an amazing ELA teacher there, who is willing to go out on a limb with me. I used many ideas found from Mrs. Reader Pants, and am grateful for this very thorough description.

We had a total of eight stations: Who’s Who (biography); Who Knew (science/nonfiction); And the Winner Is…(Newbery titles); Magic (subject: magic); People Who Make a Difference (inspiration and self help); It’s a Mystery (mystery); Double Dates (fiction and nonfiction pairings on the same subject); and Online Dating (E book collection). My creative aide made signs for each of these tables that sparkled! I introduced our ideas quickly with the help of a hearty powerpoint slide. We moved the students in groups of 2 - 4 at about every 5 minutes. I encouraged them to study the covers, read the book descriptions, and look at the first several pages before evaluating the books on a sheet that looked like this. We allowed about 7 or so minutes in the end for some hot chocolate (thanks to my ELA friend for arranging that!) and candy. We used this time to circulate and talk about the books they liked and didn’t like.

I have to say we were pleased with this activity at every academic level. We didn’t worry much about being quiet. (In fact, I played a Harry Connick, Jr. Pandora station while they “dated.” We called it the “music of love.”) The kids were just really talking about the books. “I read this one and loved it.” “Look at this cover.” “I think ____ should read this one.” “I don’t like a single book at this table.” I will definitely do this again, and will actively seek out more alternatives to the traditional book talk that allow these middle schoolers to be active and engaged.