Tips for Team Coaches

1.      SET PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Set up a schedule for your team meetings and share it with readers and their parents. Include the times and dates of all team events. Some schools have students meet once a week, while others may require very few meetings, if any, in the beginning months and then meet more frequently as the competition date approaches. Meetings can be before school, during school, or after school. 

2.      BEGIN WITH MEMORIZING THE TITLE AND AUTHOR OF EACH BOOK

It’s important that each player know the correct title and author of each book on the list, even if they don’t read each of the book themselves (see below). Quizzing them frequently will help your team achieve the points needed when answering questions.

3.      DIVIDE UP THE BOOKS

You may want to divide up the books – making each reader responsible for certain books. Still encourage readers to read as many books as possible. You may choose to use a Team Reading Chart or similar tool to track your progress on the books read and discussed.

4.      MAKE NOTES

Keep notes, make a poster board, and/or draw sketches for easy reference about the main characters, the important events, the settings, etc. for each title. Use resources like Quizlet during practices and Google Classroom for your teams to share information and tips.

5.      PRACTICE

Have readers write practice questions about the books they have read, then quiz each other. Divide your team and have mock battles. Give each member a chance to participate in these mock battles. Get your team into the habit of giving the title and the author of each book.

6.      REVIEW THE RULES

Review the rules with your team early on and throughout your practice sessions, especially as you approach competition day.

7.      SHOW GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

Emphasize the fact that just participating is fun and worthwhile. Many of the books are challenging and reading them is an achievement and reward in itself. It is important for your team members to learn to win and lose graciously and be a part of a positive experience for everyone.

8. READ THE BOOKS

It's good to have coaches understand the material the kids are reading so they can help them understand and appreciate the books on the lists. Read the books on the list and review with the kids. Many of the books may be available in audio book formats which can help those with limited time. There are free options on YouTube. It's important to identify the best available audio resources and share them with parents as well. However, kids are encouraged to read over the books even after they may have listened to them. 

9. SEEK HELP

There are no requirements for coaches. Seek help from other teachers that are willing to assist, as well as parents. They may not be an official "coach" but can still help you and the kids where needed.