Students in grades 3–5 at Lovelock Elementary School are participating in a creative literacy initiative inspired by the excitement of the March Madness basketball tournament.
Led by third-grade teacher Laura Duncan, the March Madness Book Bracket invites students to read a variety of carefully selected, high-quality picture books that feature rich vocabulary and strong story elements. Students participate in bracket-style voting rounds, beginning with the “Sweet 16,” advancing through the “Elite Eight,” “Final Four,” and ultimately the Championship round.
After reading, students vote on their preferred titles, allowing them to actively engage in the selection process as books compete head-to-head and advance through each stage of the competition. The entire process is displayed in the school gallery, where students can visually track the bracket and see how their votes impact which books move forward.
“The excitement has been incredible to watch,” said Laura Duncan, 3rd grade teacher leading the project. “Students are so engaged in the process—not only reading more, but really thinking about what they like in a book and why. It brings a fun, competitive energy to reading while still building important comprehension and discussion skills.”
The activity promotes student voice and choice while encouraging critical thinking, comprehension, and discussion. As students compare texts and justify their preferences, they deepen their understanding of literature in an engaging and interactive way.
The competition will continue throughout the month, culminating in the selection of a “champion” book. This approach not only fosters a love of reading but also builds a sense of community as students share in the excitement of the tournament.
Lovelock Elementary School remains committed to creating meaningful and engaging learning experiences that inspire a lifelong love of reading.
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