The Winners' Circle

Have each student or a small group read at least one of the Tops for 2000 books.  If possible, try to have all books on the list covered.  When all students have finished reading their books, have them form a Winners' Circle.   Engage them in a discussion on why  these books have been voted the top favorites by children all over the country. List the  features they think make these books winners.  Post the award-winning features list on a bulletin board so that students can refer to it.  They might try to pick their own favorites using the features list to see how many of their choices make the Tops for 2001.         

The Ten+ Club

If students have read all the Tops for 2000 titles, have them select the title they think will be the first one to make the 10+ Club.  What are the features that make this book a 10+ winner in the same category as Superfudge, the biggest winner of all to date.  Have students examine the 2000 list and select the book they think could earn first place next year. How many more awards will it need to get there?  Encourage them to tell why there could be a new top of the Ten+ winner. 

To view other suggested activities for the award winners, check out our Teacher Tips on How to Use Our Resources!