I have to say that although I love the thrill of watching students mush from Anchorage to Nome on the virtual Iditarod Trail, I especially love it when students share with everyone what they have been reading. It is not only great to use this part of the event as a writing activity, but for mushers it can highlight some book titles that may be unfamiliar. Plus, the 1-3 paw ratings and "Favorite" picks can help to pick out the "best" books to read next.
Mushers and teachers may also find some engaging and Iditarod/Alaska-related books in our Staff Picks section.
On a related note, I sometimes get the question, "What counts as reading?" This varies, depending on the musher's reading level, and that is probably one of the best things about Idita-Read — it is adaptable to all reading levels. For beginning readers, for example, reviewing picture books, reading memorized pattern books, phonics readers, listening to a read aloud, or any combination of reading activities can count as trail mileage. What is most important is that mushers have fun reading but also feel a little challenged with it, perhaps picking up new vocabulary and other related skills along the way.
In fact, new in this year's Race Kit are some Learning Links that support additional engaging explorations in Reading & Writing skills. We hope that these high-quality, free resources help teachers and students during and beyond the annual race event.
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