www.bayschools.com/bob
Revised 9/18/12
General Information
Participating Schools
Battle History
Purpose
Dates
School Requirements
Battle Books
Author/Title List
Bookmarks
Book Labels
Coach’s Guide
Battle Timeline
Battle Web Site
Media Specialist’s Role
Teacher’s Role
Promotional Ideas
Letter to Parent & Students
Sample Student Rewards
Battle Reader Award Cards
Battle Buttons
Battle Log Cover
Battle Reader Summary Sheet
Monthly Total Cards
Qualifying Test
Qualifying Test Tips
Sample Qualifying Test
Battle Information
Local Pre-Battle Checklist
Battle Tidbits for teachers
Parent Letter
Custodian Letter
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Battle Rules
Abbreviated Battle Rules
Duties of Officials
Monitor and Judge Hints
Battle Question Format
Title Question Flow Chart
Sample Battle Questions
Sample Invitation
Sample School Program
Local Battle Agenda
Sample Area Program
Battle Scorecard
Battle Room Set-up
Sample Battle Nameplate
Local Team Member Form
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BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
Participating Schools
History
Purpose
Dates
School Requirements
4
Battle of the Books Participating Schools
2012-2013
BOB Organizer
# 4th Grade
Classes
School
Principal
Bay Haven Charter Academy
Mr. Larry Bolinger
Breakfast Point Academy
Denise Kelley
Rob Tindel,
(Sara Patterson and
Janet Bailey)
7
Callaway Elementary
Tim Keiffer
Kitty Hodges
5
Cedar Grove Elementary School
Phillip Campbell
Gayle Marshall
4
Deane Bozeman School
Josh Balkom
Leigh Hawkins
3
Deer Point Elementary School
Lendy Willis
Leanne Krohne
2
Hiland Park Elementary School
Patti Fowler
Gary Buynak
6
Hutchison Beach Elementary School
Glenda Nouskhajian
Debbie Gilder
5
Lucille Moore Elementary School
Kathleen Schmidt
Tracy Frigon
3
Lynn Haven Elementary School
Debra Spradley
Floy Hawkins
5
Merriam Cherry Street Elementary
School
Carol Rine
Lori Young
3
North Bay Haven Charter School
Meredith Higgins
Northside Elementary School
Wanda Robbins
Jennifer Rollins
5
Oakland Terrace Elementary School
Tereza Holzman
Shelia Scofield
2
Parker Elementary School
Kimberly Kirkman
Tiffany Brown
4
Patronis Elementary School
Ellie Spivey
Carol Senn
6
Patterson Elementary School
Angela Hutchinson
Lisa Moore
3
Southport Elementary School
Ms. Dianne Miller
Judy Radke
3
Springfield Elementary School
Harriett Taylor
Lisa Gorey
4
Tommy Smith Elementary School
Lynn Stryker
Bonnie Campbell
5
Tyndall Elementary School
Susan Ross
Susan Shumaker
5
Waller Elementary School
Peggy Bunch
Jane Schmidt
4
5
3
5
Battle History
The purpose of the Battle of the Books is to encourage
reading, increase familiarity with authors, share books
through written and oral expression, offer a variety of
literature to the students, encourage students to
communicate with each other, and increase the love of
reading. In Bay County the fourth grade was selected to
be the participating grade level.
The “Battle of the Books” has been in existence in Florida
and throughout the country for a long time. Seven
schools participated in our pilot program in 2007-2008,
and Hiland Park Elementary School was the winner of
our Inaugural County Battle of the Books.
The program was so well received that nineteen of our
elementary schools participated last year. Five Area
Battles were added on the road to the County Battle. The
winner of the 2012-2012 Battle of the Books was Patronis
Elementary.
For 2012-2012, all twenty-two of our Elementary Schools
are participating. It is sure to be exciting!
6
The Battle of the Books
is designed to:
 Encourage recreational reading
 Offer a variety of literature
 Increase familiarity with authors
 Improve reading comprehension
 Share books through written and oral
expression
 Help increase book circulation
7
Qualifying Test – Tuesday, April 2, 2013
All fourth grade students will take a test with 8 title questions and 7 author questions to
determine which students will represent their class in their local school Battle. Thirty minutes will
be allowed for taking the test.
Local School Battles – April 29 – May 14, 2013
The local school battle is a competition between the school’s 4th grade teams. The winner of this Battle represents
the school at the Area Battle. Most battles will begin between 8:30-9:00.
April 29, 2013
Tommy Smith,
May 7, 2013
April 30, 2013
May 8, 2013
May 1, 2013
Hiland Park,
May 9, 2013
May 2, 2013
Cedar Grove, Springfield
May 10, 2013
May 3, 2013
Southport,
May 13, 2013
May 6, 2013
May 14, 2013
Area
Schools
Date
Battle Location
Area 1
Lynn Haven, Tommy Smith, Callaway, Bay
Haven
Wednesday,
May 15, 2013
District Media Center
Conference Room 2
Area 2
Springfield, Breakfast Point, Tyndall,
Northside
Thursday,
May 16, 2013
District Media Center
Conference Room 2
Area 3
Beach, Deer point, Cherry Street, Oakland
Terrace, Southport
Friday,
May 17, 2013
District Media Center
Conference Room 2
Area 4
North Bay Haven, Bozeman, Waller, Parker
Monday,
May 20, 2013
District Media Center
Conference Room 2
Area 5
Patronis, Patterson, Cedar Grove, Lucille
Moore, Hiland Park
Tuesday,
May 21, 2013
District Media Center
Conference Room 2
District Battle – Thursday, May 23, 2013
The winning area battle teams will compete for the District title.
District Instructional Technology & Media Center Conference Room 2 – 9:00 a.m.
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 Attend informational meeting
 Register school on official form
 Students must be able to sign a
Photography/Videotaping Permission
Form – This is usually done at the
beginning of the year so ask the
classroom teachers

Hold a local school battle with all fourth
grade classes participating
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BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
Author/Title Lists
Bookmarks
Book Labels
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Title
Author
AR Points Lexile
Edgar Allan’s Official Crime
Investigation Notebook
Amato, Mary
3.7
4.0
650
Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies
Beaty, Andrea
5.1
4.0
790
The Fast and the Furriest
Behrens, Andy
4.6
6.0
660
The Trouble with Chickens
Cronin, Doreen
3.8
1.0
570
The Familiars
Epstein, Adam &
Jacobson, Andrew
6.3
10.0
920
Tuesdays at the Castle
George, Jessica Day
5.8
8.0
860
Sophie Simon Solves Them All
Graff, Lisa
3.9
2.0
680
Turtle in Paradise
Holm, Jennifer
3.7
4.0
610
Guinea Dog
Jennings, Patrick
3.7
4.0
600
Neil Armstrong is my Uncle &
Other Lies Muscle Man McGinty
Told Me
Marino, Nan
4.1
4.0
670
The Fantastic Secret of Owen
Jester
O’Connor, Barbara
4.7
4.0
770
Fortune’s Magic Farm
Selfors, Suzanne
4.6
8.0
680
Aliens on Vacation
Smith, Clete Barrett
5.1
9.0
770
The Shadows
West, Jacqueline
5.1
7.0
770
President of the Whole Fifth
Grade
Winston, Sherri
4.8
6.0
730
11
 Edgar Allan’s Official Crime
Investigation Notebook
by Mary Amato
 Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies
by Andrea Beaty
 The Fast and the Furriest
by Andy Behrens
 The Trouble with Chickens
by Doreen Cronin
 The Familiars
by Epstein, Adam & Jacobson,
Andrew
 Tuesdays at the Castle
by Jessica Day George
 Sophie Simon Solves Them All
by Lisa Graff
 Turtle in Paradise
by Jennifer Holm
 Guinea Dog
by Patrick Jennings
 Neil Armstrong is my Uncle and
Other Lies Muscle Man
McGinty Told Me
by Nan Marino
 The Fantastic Secret of Owen
Jester
by Lenore Look
 Fortune’s Magic Farm
by Suzanne Selfors
 Aliens on Vacation
by Clete Barrett Smith
 The Shadows
by Jacqueline West
President of the Whole Fifth
Grade
By Sherri Winston
 Edgar Allan’s Official Crime
Investigation Notebook
by Mary Amato
 Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies
by Andrea Beaty
 The Fast and the Furriest
by Andy Behrens
 The Trouble with Chickens
by Doreen Cronin
 The Familiars
by Epstein, Adam & Jacobson,
Andrew
 Tuesdays at the Castle
by Jessica Day George
 Sophie Simon Solves Them All
by Lisa Graff
 Turtle in Paradise
by Jennifer Holm
 Guinea Dog
by Patrick Jennings
 Neil Armstrong is my Uncle and
Other Lies Muscle Man
McGinty Told Me
by Nan Marino
 The Fantastic Secret of Owen
Jester
by Lenore Look
 Fortune’s Magic Farm
by Suzanne Selfors
 Aliens on Vacation
by Clete Barrett Smith
 The Shadows
by Jacqueline West
President of the Whole Fifth
Grade
By Sherri Winston
 Edgar Allan’s Official Crime
Investigation Notebook
by Mary Amato
 Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies
by Andrea Beaty
 The Fast and the Furriest
by Andy Behrens
 The Trouble with Chickens
by Doreen Cronin
 The Familiars
by Epstein, Adam & Jacobson,
Andrew
 Tuesdays at the Castle
by Jessica Day George
 Sophie Simon Solves Them All
by Lisa Graff
 Turtle in Paradise
by Jennifer Holm
 Guinea Dog
by Patrick Jennings
 Neil Armstrong is my Uncle and
Other Lies Muscle Man
McGinty Told Me
by Nan Marino
 The Fantastic Secret of Owen
Jester
by Lenore Look
 Fortune’s Magic Farm
by Suzanne Selfors
 Aliens on Vacation
by Clete Barrett Smith
 The Shadows
by Jacqueline West
President of the Whole Fifth
Grade
By Sherri Winston
 Edgar Allan’s Official Crime
Investigation Notebook
by Mary Amato
 Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies
by Andrea Beaty
 The Fast and the Furriest
by Andy Behrens
 The Trouble with Chickens
by Doreen Cronin
 The Familiars
by Epstein, Adam & Jacobson,
Andrew
 Tuesdays at the Castle
by Jessica Day George
 Sophie Simon Solves Them All
by Lisa Graff
 Turtle in Paradise
by Jennifer Holm
 Guinea Dog
by Patrick Jennings
 Neil Armstrong is my Uncle and
Other Lies Muscle Man
McGinty Told Me
by Nan Marino
 The Fantastic Secret of Owen
Jester
by Lenore Look
 Fortune’s Magic Farm
by Suzanne Selfors
 Aliens on Vacation
by Clete Barrett Smith
 The Shadows
by Jacqueline West
President of the Whole Fifth
Grade
By Sherri Winston
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Edgar Allan’s
Official Crime
Investigation
Notebook
by
Attack of the
Fluffy
Bunnies
The Fast
and the
Furriest
The Trouble
with
Chickens
by
by
by
by
Andrea Beaty
Andy Behrens
Doreen Cronin
Lexile 790
Lexile 660
Lexile 570
Mary Amato
Lexile 650
The
Familiars
Adam Epstein
&
Andrew
Jacobson
Lexile 920
AR 3.7
AR 5.1
AR 4.6
AR 3.8
AR 6.3
Points 4.0
Points 4.0
Points 6.0
Points 1.0
Points 10.0
13
Tuesdays at
the Castle
by
Sophie
Simon
Solves
Them All
by
Turtle in
Paradise
by
Jennifer Holm
Jessica Day
George
Lisa Graff
Lexile 840
Lexile 680
Lexile 610
AR 5.8
AR 3.9
AR 3.7
Points 8.0
Points 2.0
Points 4.0
Guinea Dog
By
Patrick
Jennings
Lexile 600
Neil Armstrong
is my Uncle
and Other Lies
Muscle Man
McGinty Told
Me
by
Nan Marino
Lexile 670
AR 3.7
AR 4.1
Points 4.0
Points 4.0
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The
Fantastic
Secret of
Owen Jester
by
Barbara
O’Connor
Fortune’s
Magic Farm
by
Suzanne
Selfors
Aliens on
Vacation
The Shadows
by
President of
the Whole
Fifth Grade
by
by
Clete Barrett
Smith
Jacqueline West
Lexile 770
Lexile 680
Lexile 770
Lexile 770
AR 4.7
AR 4.6
AR 5.1
AR 5.1
Points 4.0
Points 8.0
Points 9.0
Points 7.0
Sherri Winston
Lexile 730
AR 4.8
Points 6.0
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These are book labels that you can print
and put on the spine of your battle
books.
They can be found on the Battle of the
Books web page.
They print 30 to a page.
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BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
COACH’S GUIDE
Battle TimeLine
Battle Web Site
Media Specialist’s Role
Teacher’s Role
Promotional Ideas
Letter to Parents and Students
Battle Student Rewards
Battle Reader Award Cards
Battle Buttons
Battle Log Cover
Battle Reader Summary Sheet
Battle Reader Monthly Total Cards
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BATTLE TIMELINE
October 2012
Kickoff for Battle of the Books
Call the Bay County Public Library (872- 7500) to
schedule book talks with Elaine Everitt or Sandra
Pierce.
October 2012 – March 2013 Students read books
March, 2013
Media Specialists will begin training on quiz
machines
April 2, 2013
Qualifying test at all participating schools
April 29-May 14, 2013 Schools will hold battles to determine their
team for the county battle. Dates will be
coordinated for sharing equipment.
May 15-21, 2013
Area Battles will take place at the District Media
Center Conference Room 2.
May 23, 2013
County battle will take place at 9:00 a. m District
Media Center Conference Room 2
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WEB SITE
For more information concerning Battle of the Books, please go to our
Website:
www.bayschools.com/schools/bob
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MEDIA SPECIALIST’S ROLE: To serve as coordinator and cheerleader
for that school; also, to work with other participating schools in the county
battle. The media specialists will oversee the program and provide
promotional activities and rewards to encourage students and teachers for
reading.
METHODS:
1. OBTAIN SUPPORT from administration, 4th grade teachers, volunteers,
PTO, and SAC committee
2. PREPARE MATERIALS
A. Books
B. Student reading progress charts and stickers or markers
C. Reduced book list for students to place in their journal/log
D. Letters to parents for each class
E. Have prizes and rewards available for distribution
3. ADVERTISE AND PROMOTE BATTLE
A. Invite teachers to a refreshment break/meeting to talk about the
program.
B. Decorate a bulletin board in media center with information
C. Place books on display reserved for 4th graders.
D. Put a banner outside classrooms that are participating.
E. Reward and recognize the classes reading the most books each
month
F. Offer book talks by media specialists and others
G. Use the morning show, school newsletter, and scrolling billboard to
help with advertising.
H. Encourage the use of the media center and public library.
I. Conduct short book discussions during 4th grade library time.
J. Have students enter their names for a drawing for every 4 books read.
K. Encourage teachers to read aloud to their classes, offering rewards to
the teachers for reading 16 books.
L. Talk to the PTO about buying books, providing pizza parties, or
buying ice cream for the class that reads the most books each month.
M. Provide opportunities for students to write letters to the BOB authors.
Share any letters received back with all 4th grade students.
N. Sponsor a door decorating or bookmark contest.
O. Have 4th graders make bookmarks for books read and distribute
them to other students.
P. Remember to make it FUN!
4. BATTLE RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Practice using machine with the winning team.
B. Set up stage area with tables, microphones, banners for each
class. Arrange for judges, question readers, etc.
C. Make sure permission slips are in order for county team
members.
D. Refer to “Your Local Battle” section for checklist.
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TEACHER’S ROLE: To motivate and encourage the students to read!
METHODS:
1. SEND introductory letter to parents and book list before November.
2. READ aloud to class daily.
A. First book – a favorite of yours.
B. Second book – find the book the students do not choose (this will
probably be the one of the books with the most pages.
C. Say aloud the book title and author every time you read!
D. Write the first summary together.
3. CHART student reading progress.
A. List all books and all student names.
B. Students put up their own stickers or mark for each book read.
C. Dedicate a bulletin board for the Battle of the Books.
D. Use different stickers or methods of marking for each month. Take a
count every month. Class with most books read monthly will be
publicized school-wide.
4. BATTLE LOG OR JOURNAL may be kept by each student to show
understanding of the book and to be used for a study review before the testing.
The actual method used will be determined by the classroom teacher. Some
suggestions are listed below. Since many classes already keep a journal, book
summaries of finished books can be entries.
A. Use a composition book or folder for each student.
B. Take reduced book list given to you by your media specialist and have
students paste it in the front of their journal.
C. For each entry write:
1. Title of book and author’s name as it appears on the book
2. List of characters
3. Setting
4. Summary sequencing the main events in the story.
D. Refer to sample “Battle Log”
E. Take AR test on book in accordance to goals set by teachers.
F. Student puts up sticker or marks classroom chart.
G. Student goes to the media center for recognition after reading and
completing teacher requirements for reading 4, 8, 12, or 16 books.
H. Have students use a large index card as a book marker while they
read. Write a sentence or two for each chapter after reading.
5. CLASS READING TIME
A. Daily self selected reading time
B. Use novels in small groups during 90 reading block.
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6. SHARING BATTLE BOOKS
A. Book reports in any form
B. Have book talks and class discussions
C. Share book reports or projects orally
D. Create book posters and/or advertisements.
7. PREPARING FOR THE QUALIFYING TEST
A. Students and teacher write questions on index cards and challenge
each other. These cards can be prepared as students read the books.
B. Make title/author flash cards
C. Play concentration by matching the author with the book.
8. QUALIFYING TEST
A. All 4th grade students take the qualifying test.
B. Number the papers as they are turned in.
C. Have students number a sheet of notebook paper 1 – 15 for ease in
checking tests.
9. THE CLASS BATTLE TEAM
A. Provide class time for the team to practice. This will take place
after FCAT.
B. Send the team to the media center to practice with the machine and
the media specialist.
C. Have the team divide the list and have each team member
responsible for certain books.
D. Have a mock battle in the classroom with classmates asking the
team questions.
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PROMOTIONAL IDEAS













Decorate with information about Battle of the Books
Read books aloud to students
Hold a bookmark contest
Place the BOB books in a special area just for 4th graders
Offer book talks by media specialist, teachers, parents, etc.
Promote the battle with flyers, TV spots, etc.
Encourage students to use the public library
Have students put their names in for a drawing for every ? books
read.
Award BOB buttons for students for reading 4 books, then add a
sticker for each additional 4 books
Have contests that reward teachers as well as students
Plan a day for students to dress like characters from BOB books
Display artifacts representing a book
Find unique objects to represent each book and place objects in a
bag. Have students pick object and name the book.
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Dear Parents and Students,
Our school is participating in the Battle of the Books for 2012-2013.
Students will keep a Battle of the Books journal, which will include title and author’s
name, a list of characters, setting, and a summary of the story. AR tests are available
for each title. A chart will be posted in each classroom to record student progress.
Prizes will be given from the media center as certain goals are attained. The class that
reads the most books each month will also be rewarded.
On April 2, 2013 a qualifying test will be given in each 4th grade class. (If the class is a
mix of 4th and 5th grade students, only the 4th grade students will take the test.) The top
three scorers, plus an alternate, in each class will become a team of contestants for the
local school Battle of the Books. Parents and classmates will be invited to watch and
cheer for the contestants. Our school winning team will then compete in one of 5 Area
Battles against other Bay County school teams during the week of May 15-21, 2013.
The winner of each Area Battle will compete in the County Battle of the Books on
_______________, at 9:00 a.m. It will take place at Bay District Instructional
Technology and Media Services, 1110 W. 17th Street, Panama City, FL 32405.
Books are available in our school library and at the Public Libraries. They may be
purchased at our school book fair and local book stores. Please visit our web page for
more information. (www.bayschools.com/schools/bob).
HAPPY READING!!!
Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Teachers
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Battle of the Books
2012-2013 Rewards
2 Books= Page Level
Place your knight on the “Battle Field” and
collect a Battle pencil!
5 Books= Squire Level
Move your knight to the next area and
collect a Battle treat!
10 Books = Knight Level
Move your knight to the next area and
collect your Battle reward!
15 Books = Monarch
Move your knight; join your teacher for a
regal lunch!
26
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
Name _______________________
Name _______________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher Initials:
Teacher Initials:
2 _____
5 _____
10 _____ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
Name _______________________
Name _______________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher Initials:
Teacher Initials:
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
Name _______________________
Name _______________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher Initials:
Teacher Initials:
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
2012-2013 Battle of the Books
Reader Award Card
Name _______________________
Name _______________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher _____________________
Teacher Initials:
Teacher Initials:
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
2 _____
5_____
10 ______ 15_____
Bring this card to the media center each time
you reach one of the above book totals.
27
Battle Buttons
28
Battle
Log
Name: _____________________________
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Summary Sheet
Name: _______________________________________________
Title: ________________________________________________
Author: _______________________________________________
Main Character(s)
_________________________________
_______________________________________
_________________________________
_______________________________________
Supporting Characters
_________________________________
_______________________________________
_________________________________
_______________________________________
Story Problem
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Sequence of Events or Summary
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Use back of paper if needed to finish summary
30
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
Teacher _______________
Teacher _______________
Month September
Month October
Total ___________
Total ___________
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
Teacher _______________
Teacher _______________
Month November
Month December
Total ___________
Total ___________
31
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
Teacher _______________
Teacher _______________
Month January
Month February
Total ___________
Total ___________
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
BOB Books Read
Monthly Total
Teacher _______________
Teacher _______________
Month March
Month May
Total ___________
Total ___________
32
BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
Qualifying Test Tips
Sample Qualifying Test
33
QUALIFYING TEST TIPS
Each school will receive the same qualifying test.
The test is to be given to all 4th grade students on _______________. If a class is
mixed, only the 4th grade students will take the test.
It should be given by the classroom teacher.
Each school will receive a qualifying test packet the Friday before the qualifying test.
The packets will contain a copy of the Test, Title/Author List, and a Teacher Answer
Sheet.
The test consists of 15 fill-in-the-blank questions, one for each book on the list.
8 of the questions are title questions and 7 of the questions are author questions
There is a 30 minute time limit on the test. It is suggested that the teacher number the
tests as they are turned in by each student. This will help determine who will be on the
team in case of a tie score.
The easiest way to do a Student Answer Sheet is to have the students number a sheet
of notebook paper 1-15.
The top 4 scorers will become the team, the top 3 being the actual team, and the 4th
highest score being the alternate. (Remember, if a student does not want to be on the
team, go to the next best score). No other students may substitute on a team. If a
team member and alternate are both sick, there will be 2 team members.
As the person in charge, you should make copies of the Qualifying Test, Title/Author
List for the students and a Teacher/Answer Sheet for each classroom involved. If
you need to save paper, make overheads for the teachers.
After the classroom teacher knows which students will be representing their classroom,
have them fill out the Local School Battle of the Books Team Members Form. You
will use this information in your programs.
34
SAMPLE QUALIFYING TEST
2012-2013
Battle of the Books
Qualifying Battle Questions
1.
He pushed on the wall ... and the small slab of cement moved.
Name the author.
2.
The merchant kidnapped the children hoping to get money from the boy's father.
Name the book.
3.
There is a cat in this house. I am highly allergic. This cat must be removed.
Name the book.
4.
And suddenly more than a dozen kids were checking out (her) pen pal bulletin board.
Name the book.
5.
It was her room, but - somehow - completely changed.
Name the author.
6.
And everyone knows that a police car is much more interesting than punching a girl.
Name the book.
7.
The boys ran in different directions, met up, and split up again, laughing the whole time.
Name the book.
8.
"We'll travel most of the night and sleep during the heat of day.
Name the book.
9.
The hamster was in that box, I knew he was.
Name the author.
10.
We just do what we did the year before, but with a new teacher.
Name the author.
11.
An enormous wall, like a giant patchwork curtain of stone, surrounded the thousands of
houses in the city.
Name the author.
12.
I could still hear my voice echoing off the walls when a pair of nurses burst through the
door and raced to my bedside.
Name the book.
13.
Keep them secret. Keep them hungry. And…keep them scared?
Name the author.
14,
"Take the braces and computer chip out. I'm not one of you," he said at last.
Name the author.
15.
But we got an extra ten points, extra credit, for creativity and originality.
Name the book.
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BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
BATTLE INFORMATION
Local Pre-battle Checklist
Battle Tidbits for Teachers
Parent Letter
Custodian Letter
Battle Rules
Duties of Officials
Battle Question Format
Title Question Flowchart
Sample Battle Questions
Sample Battle Invitation
Sample Battle Program
Local Battle Agenda
Sample Battle Scorecard
Battle Scorecard
Battle Room Set-Up
Sample Battle Nameplate
Local Battle Team Members Form
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LOCAL PRE-BATTLE CHECKLIST
_____ Set a date, time & place for your battle.
_____ Select a (1) moderator, (1) timekeeper, (2) scorekeepers, (3) judges.
_____ Train officials and go over the battle format.
_____ Make sure your judges’ machine is working. If you do not have a judges’ machine, make
arrangements to borrow one.
_____ Set up practices for the class teams.
_____ Order awards.
_____ Make up, print and send invitations for your battle.
_____ Collect names of class teams including the alternative.
_____ Run-off Local Battle questions provided by the BOB committee. Make a copy for yourself as well
as your officials.
_____ Buy skirts for your tables. In the past some have used butcher paper & others have bought the
plastic table skirts.
_____ Make sure you videotape your battle.
_____ Have a microphone for each team and the moderator.
_____ Make name signs for each team member including the alternate. (The students love to take
these home).
_____ Make a sign for each class team to be placed in front of the team’s table.
_____ Keep administration informed of your plans.
_____ Invite other grade level classes to come and watch your battle, especially 3 rd grade classes.
_____ Make sure you have enough working stopwatches and 3 bells for the officials.
_____ Have tape and pins to help hang items.
_____ Have enough extension cords.
_____ Make arrangements for students to help with seating and handing out the programs.
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Battle Tidbits for Teachers
(Dates, times and school names will vary)
 I have given you battle invitations. These are for the parents of the students that
are on the battle team.
 On the day of the school battle I will need the battle teams in the cafeteria at 8:05.
 All 3rd and 4th grade classes are invited to the battle on ________. Please make
sure they are there by 8:15 so we can start at 8:30. Encourage them to wear your
team color that day. They will be seated in chairs in the cafeteria. Please sit to the
side of your class so the view of other students is not blocked, yet you are close
enough to monitor behavior. Please review the following rules with your class
before the battle...
1. Please ask them to sit quietly during the battle. The students on stage will need
to talk quietly to each other and need to be able to hear. All cheers will be done
at the end of each round.
2. They are not allowed to talk to the judges or other adults helping to run the
battle.
3. Please review good sportsmanship. Every team will have worked hard to be
there and need positive reinforcement. If they do not wish to cheer for another
team they need to sit quietly. Absolutely no booing or negative comments. If
they are making poor choices they will be removed.
 The 4 students that are on the winning battle team and their parents are invited to a
reception in the Media Center immediately after the battle. They will be there for
approximately 30 minutes.
 After the battle, only the winning battle team from will be practicing. I will get the
dates to the teacher involved.
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Area Battle Parent Letter
(Dates, times and school names will vary)
I am very excited that your child made the battle team for his/her class. I will be pulling them into the
Media Center to practice using the buzzers that they will use during the Battle of the Books Area 4 Battle
on ___________. Here is the practice schedule to prepare teams for the battle.
Monday 4/12, 8:15 – 9:00
Tuesday 4/13, 8:15 – 9:00
Wednesday 4/14, 8:15 – 9:00
What can you do to help your child at home?
 Encourage him/her to read any books he/she may not have read yet, and if he/she reads all
16, encourage your child to reread.
 Ask your child to bring home his/her battle log to review and if there are any books that have
not been outlined yet, encourage your child to complete those outlines.
 At the battle they will be asked questions that are answered with the title of the book or the
name of the author of the book. Go through the battle books and ask your child questions that
they will need to answer in this manner.
 Help your child memorize the names of the authors that wrote the books.
 If you have time to invite the other students on your child’s battle team over, it is extremely
helpful for them to practice working as a group and collaborating to reach an answer. You
could ask them questions by flipping through the books behind a folder to keep them from
seeing which book you are looking in. Each teacher was given a set of battle books. Please
coordinate with your child’s teacher to borrow her set.
 Thanks for supporting your child in the battle!!!
If you have any questions about the battle, please do not hesitate to talk to your child’s teacher or to call
me. (Insert name of media specialist and phone number here.)
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Battle Custodian Letter
(Dates, times and school names will vary)
Dear Custodians,
On Wednesday, ______________, we will be having our Battle of the Books in the
cafeteria beginning at 8:15 a.m.
I need help!!!
On Tuesday the 1st, could you all please put 5 tables on the stage? We need round
tables. These can be taken from the Media Center. Also I will need the podium set up
facing the stage. On either side of the podium I will need a rectangular table.
On the 23rd , the 4th grade classes will start coming in at 8:15 a.m. They will sit at
lunchroom tables. Also at 8:15, the 3rd grade classes will start coming in to sit at the
tables in the lunchroom. I am sorry. I know that doesn’t give you time to clean up after
breakfast.
The battle should end between 9:30 and 10:00.
I think that is it! Thanks!
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Battle Rules
1.
Participants
Only 4th grade students will participate in the Battle of the Books. Three students and one
alternate as selected by the qualifying test will make up the class team. Only these four team
members will participate in local, area, and district battles.
2.
All Battles
All Battles will consist of 3 rounds of questions, 2 sets each. (See question format for additional
clarification.) When answering a title or author question, the answer should be EXACTLY as it is
on the official BOB list.
3.
Teams
The team contestants will each sit at a table. A random drawing, done ahead of time, will be
used to select the team’s order for receiving questions. A team captain should be chosen prior to
the battle. He/she will sit in the middle seat and be the spokesperson for the team. The captain
should have a loud, clear voice. If another team member calls out an answer, the question is
canceled and the team’s turn is forfeited. The question will be eliminated and no points will be
given or taken away.
4.
Title Questions
Each team in turn will receive a title question, worth 4 points, read by the moderator. Following
the question the team will have 15 seconds to respond. Only the judges may request that a
question or answer be repeated. If the question is answered correctly a judge will say correct.
Note that when the question is repeated, the 15 seconds will be restarted.
If no answer is give within 15 seconds by a team, the TIMEKEEPER will ring a bell. At this point,
any other team may “buzz in” within 15 seconds. Or, if an incorrect answer is given, the JUDGE
will ring a bell and any team may “buzz in.” If the “buzz in” answer is incorrect, a judge will say
“incorrect” and that team loses 3 points. A correct “buzz in” answer will receive 3 points. A team
that “buzzes in” early will be penalized 3 points. Note: On every buzz in, another 15 second time
will begin.
If a team misses their title question, there will be ONE “buzz in” from one of the other teams
allowed per question regardless of whether it is early or not. For example: If one other team
“buzzes in” early, that counts as the one buzz in. If there is a “buzz in” before a question is
asked, there is no penalty. However, a “buzz in” from one of the other teams after the question
has begun will result in a penalty of 3 points. No warnings! (Note: If a title question team buzzes
in on their question, no penalty will be given and the Moderator will finish reading the question.)
Four point questions will continue clockwise.
When a title question is asked, if another team calls out an answer for the “title question” team,
they will be penalized 3 points and the original team can respond to the title question (a new
question will not be given and the 15 seconds will be restarted.) The call out constitutes the one
buzz in for that question. (Refer to previous paragraphs.) Example: Team A is asked a title
question, and Team B calls out and Team B loses 3 points. All challenges and special
circumstances will be decided by the Battle Team Officials (See Battle Team Officials for
additional clarification).
5.
Author Questions
After each team has received two title questions, author questions will be asked (See Question
Format page). They are worth 2 points in the first round, 3 points in the second round, and 5
points in the third round. Any team may “buzz in” when they know the answer. If a team “buzzes
in” before the entire question is read, they must answer without hearing the rest of the question.
A judge makes the decision if the answer is correct or incorrect, and then responds by saying
either correct or incorrect. If the answer is incorrect or a response is not given in 15 seconds the
team loses the appropriate number of points and the next question is asked. Any team member
may “buzz in,” but the team captain must give the answer. There is only one “buzz in” per
question. (No bell is used during the author questions.)
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6.
Simultaneous “Buzz Ins”
On any “buzz in” question, if two or more teams “buzz in” simultaneously (as indicated by the quiz
machine), the captains of the teams involved will choose a card held by the moderator. The team
that chooses the card with the highest number will be given the opportunity to answer.
7.
Tie Breaker
In the case of a tie at the battle’s conclusion, the teams involved will participate in a tie breaker
round. Each team must receive an equal number of different questions. Questions will continue
in the same order. To win the battle a team must answer a question correctly.
No team will win by default.
(Example 1:
(Example 2:
(Example 3:
wins.)
(Example 4:
Team A correct, Team B incorrect, Team A wins.)
Team A incorrect, Team B correct, Team B wins.)
Team A incorrect, Team B incorrect, Team A correct, Team B incorrect, Team A
Team A correct, Team B correct, Team A incorrect, Team B correct, Team B wins.)
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Abbreviated Battle of the Books Rules
Students have been practicing using our Battle Rules. The following is an
overview of those rules.
1. All Battles consist of 3 rounds of questions. Each round contains 2 sets
of title and 1 set of author questions.
2. Teams are seated in order decided by a random drawing conducted
prior to the battle. The person designated as the captain will be the
spokesperson for the team.
3. Title Questions
Each team will receive title questions. They will have 15 seconds to
respond. If they do not answer or if their answer is incorrect, one buzz in
from the other teams will be allowed. Please wait until the judge calls on
your team before you answer the “buzz in” question.
4. Author Questions
After each team has received two title questions, author questions will be
asked. Any team may buzz in when they know the answer. There is only
one buzz in for author questions.
5. The judges have the final ruling on a question.
6. Sportsmanship (I plan to read this at my school level Battle)
Every team has worked hard to be here at this Battle and need our support.
If you wish to show your support, please applaud at the end of each round.
Please remember that the purpose of this Battle of the Books is:
 to encourage reading
 increase familiarity with authors
 share books through written and oral expression
 to offer a variety of literature to the students
That said, please understand we may have to conference among the
participating media specialists and judges for clarification.
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Duties of Officials
Moderator (1)
 Review the rules before the competition begins.
 Read each question once and repeat it once if requested by the judges
o After each answer announce the number of points earned or penalized.
o Announce scores after each round and at the end of play.
Scorekeepers (2)
 Post score for each team point earned or penalized.
 Total scores for each team at the end of a round.
o One scorekeeper should do the writing on the scoreboard while the other double checks
to make sure the correct number of points are given to each team and that the
tabulations have been added correctly.
Timekeeper (1)
 Signal end of fifteen seconds if an answer has not been initiated.
 Timer should have two stop watches – one for keeping the fifteen seconds and a second as a
backup in case something happens to the other watch.
Judges (3)
 Monitor question rotation to ensure an equal number of questions for each team.
 Validate answers if questioned.
 Determine which teams “buzz in” first for questions not answered within fifteen seconds and
Author Questions.
 Rings a bell if a team gives an incorrect answer for a Title Question.
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Moderator Hints
1. Address each Title question to the appropriate team before asking it.
2. After the judge says “correct”, announce the points and the team name. (i.e.
“Team X – 4 points)
3. On Author questions emphasize that there is only ONE buzz-in allowed, and that
points will be deducted for incorrect answers.
4. Request that the teams not answer their question on a “buzz-in” until the judge
calls their team name.
5. If there is a “buzz-in” announce the number of points (+ or -) for the team
answering. (i.e. “Team X 3 points or -3 points”)
6. Give the score keepers a few extra moments between rounds to tabulate for that
round.
Judge Hints
1. Answer “correct” when a team’s Title answer is right.
2. Ring the bell if the answer is incorrect on Title questions to let other teams know
they can buzz in.
3. If an opposing team buzzes in on another team’s title question, the buzzing team
loses 3 points, and the team whose question it is gets to hear the question again and
answer it. The wrong buzz-in will count as the buzz-in for that question.
4. On a “buzz-in” answer, say “correct” if the answer is right or “incorrect” instead of
ringing the bell if the answer is wrong.
5. On Author questions where there is only 1 buzz-in answer allowed – say “correct” if
the answer it right or say “incorrect” if the answer is wrong (do not ring the bell)
6. Call on the team who buzzed in before they answer the question.
7. You have the final say on whether an answer is right or wrong.
8. Titles have to be exact, including the word “the” at the beginning.
9. You may ask a team to repeat an answer if you aren’t sure of what you heard.
10. If a team answers with the Title when it is an Author question, the answer is
incorrect, and the team loses points.
11. One judge will speak, one judge will ring the bell, and one judge will clear the
buzzer.
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Battle of the Books
Question Format
Note: Local, Area, and County Battles will all be three rounds
Round 1
Round 2
Round 3
(Set 1)
(Set 1)
(Set 1)
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or -3 points
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or -3 points
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or -3 points
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or - 3 points
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or -3 points
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/ + or -3 points
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 2 pts)
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 3 pts)
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 5 pts)
(Set 2)
(Set 2)
(Set 2)
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Title Questions
(4 pts)/+ or – 3 pts
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 2 pts)
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 3 pts)
7 Author Questions
(+ or – 5 pts)
 The number 7 on this chart represents the number of teams in the battle. For example: If you have 5
classes you will only use the first 5 questions on each page during your battle.
 Each question is worth 4 points, except in the case of a “buzz-in” or Author Question.
 Title Question “buzz-ins” are worth plus or minus 3 points.
 Round 1 author questions are worth plus or minus 2 points.
 Round 2 author questions are worth plus or minus 3 points.
 Round 3 author questions are worth plus or minus 5 points.
 There will be 3 rounds in ALL battles.
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Title Question Flow Chart
Title Question
is asked
Start 15 seconds
Correct
answer
4 points
Next
Question
Incorrect
Answer
0 points
Time
Expires –
No Answer
0 points
Ring Bell
Other
Teams
Buzz In
Start 15 seconds
Correct
Answer
+3 Points
Incorrect
Answer
-3 Points
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Battle of the Books
Sample Battle Questions
Round 1
Set 1 Title Questions
(4 points / “Buzz In” = or – 3 points)
1. "At least we're alive," she says. "That's the important thing."
Name the Book
A.) The Earth Dragon Awakes: The San Francisco Earthquake of 1906
2. "Did you take my goggles from the front porch?".
Name the book.
A.) Bird Lake Moon
3. "Now, that is what I call a sitting duck," she said.
Name the book.
A.) Safe at Home
4. "This isn't your presentation."
Name the book.
A.) 11 Birthdays
5. "We've been looking everywhere for you."
Name the book.
A.) Masterpiece
6. All of the children in the room had blond hair and light-colored eyes.
Name the book.
A.) Someone Named Eva
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Battle of the Books
Sample Battle Questions
Round 1
Set 2 Title Questions
(4
points / “Buzz In” + or – 3 points)
1. He had seen the sweater in the newspaper clipping.
Name the book.
A.) Eleven
2. He puffed out his chest and strutted proudly back and forth.
Name the book.
A.) Mogo, the Third Warthog
3. Hearing the word turtle made him blush.
Name the book.
A.) Bird Lake Moon
4. I can enchantify yer weapons, if that is what you'd like.
Name the book.
A.) Kenny & the Dragon
5. I'd rather think the best of the old mouse and leave it at that.
Name the book.
A.) Obi, Gerbil on the Loose
6. She drops my arm and jerks her top back into place, but not before I see the scar.
Name the book.
A.) Cicada Summer
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Battle of the Books
Sample Battle Questions
Round 1
Set 1 Author Questions
(+ or- 2 points)
1. The kids were promptly escorted down to the thirteenth level.
Name the author.
A.) Victoria Forester
2. The microchip was in place.
Name the author.
A.) Elise Broach
3. They kept playing catch in what daylight they had left.
Name the author.
A.) Mike Lupica
4. "We'll have to rescue ourselves," his father says.
Name the author
A.) Laurence Yep
5. All of the children in the room had blond hair and light-colored eyes.
Name the author.
A.) Joan M. Wolf
6. For an old mouse with a limp, he certainly moves fast.
Name the author.
A.) Michael Delaney
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What: Battle of the Books Contest
When:
Wednesday May 1, 2013
Where: Hiland Park Media Center
Time: 8:30 a.m.
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52
Hiland Park
Elementary
School
Hiland Park Media Center
8:30 a.m.
May 1, 2013
School Competition
Hiland Park Elementary
School
Battle of the Books
Please join us for the
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Judges
Timekeepers
Scorekeepers
Welcome
Gary Buynak
Rules of Play
Introduction of Officials
Introduction of Teams & Alternates
The Actual Battle
Announce Winner
Patti Fowler
Awards
Gary Buynak
Officials
Moderator
PROGRAM
name
name
name
name
name
name
Teacher 4
(color)
Teacher 5
(color)
name
name
Teacher 2
(color)
Teacher 3
(color)
name
name
Teacher 1
(color)
name
name (alt.)
name
name (alt.)
name
name (alt.)
name
name (alt.)
name
name (alt.)
Remember, everyone is proud of you.
You are all winners already!!! You are
representing all the students in your class.
Local Battle Agenda
1. Welcome – Media Specialist
Good Morning – welcome to the 2012-2013 Battle of the Books, and a special welcome
to 3rd graders and parents.
Excited – reading since October – logs, battle pins, pizza and ice cream
2. History of Battle – Media Specialist
The Battle of the Books is designed to encourage recreational reading, and to offer a
variety of types of literature, to increase familiarity with different authors, and to share
books through written and oral expression. It has been widely used across the United
States, and can be traced back to a public radio program in Chicago in the 1940’s.
Our fourth grade students were given a list of 15 Florida Sunshine State Young Reader
books in September. Today our 4th grade teams will engage in a friendly competition.
However, every student who has read for the Battle of the Books is a winner, because of
the knowledge gained in reading good children’s literature.
3. Introduce teams- Media Specialist and Teachers
We are 6 teams – 1 school
4. Introduce Officials – Media Specialist
5. Ask alternates to go to their seats – Media Specialist
Moderator, we are ready for our rules
6. Review Rules – Moderator
7. Battle – Moderator
8. Recognition and Thank you – Media Specialist
While the scorekeepers calculate the scores thanks to:
Teachers – Hard work, guidance, support, encouragement
Officials – we couldn’t have done it without you, thank you for volunteering your time
Administration
Custodians
4th graders who read 1 battle book stand up.
Who read 2 and earn a pin stand and continue standing
Those who read 4 and got a sticker on your pin stand and continue standing
Read 8 and got to come to the morning show
Read 15 and got another star as well as a free book
Scorekeepers are we ready?
9. Announce awards and dismissal
Participation ribbons
Our battle team is:____________________
I would like to invite the battle team and their parents to the Media Center for a small
reception. Thank You!
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May 20, 2013
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Round
BATTLE OF THE BOOKS SCORECARD
1
TEAM
2
3
1
TEAM
2
3
1
TEAM
2
3
1
TEAM
2
3
1
TEAM
2
3
1
TEAM
2
3
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Battle of the Books Set-Up
for School Battles
April 29 – May 14, 2013
7 (or number of 4th grade classes) student desks with 3 chairs each (or long tables would
work)
STAGE
Table w/2
chairs
Student Seating
Podium
Table w/2
chairs
Student Seating
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Sample Nameplate
Michael
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School __________________________________
Members:
1.________________________________________
2.________________________________________
3.________________________________________
Alternate:
__________________________________________
Teacher:
___________________________________________
Media Specialist:
___________________________________________
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