University of Guelph-Humber

Reading challenge inspires Grade 5 students to read a book a week

The University of Guelph-Humber, in partnership with First Book Canada, Raptors 905 and Tangerine Bank launched the fifth annual Raptors 905 Summer Reading Challenge for the GTA.

Approximately 325 Grade 5 students, from Peel, Scarborough, and North York, will participate in the weekly reading challenge.

The program invites students to complete one new book each week and then write a book report outlining what they loved and learned from the story.

“As the official education partner of the Raptors 905 we strive to make continuous positive contributions to students in our shared community. This is why we are excited to be a meaningful part of First Book Canada’s Raptors 905 Summer Reading Challenge,” Dr. Melanie Spence-Ariemma, Vice-Provost at the University of Guelph-Humber, said. “A love for learning begins with a childhood enriched with books and we support all children having access to the wonderful world of reading.”

Recently, 150 Grade 5 students participated in basketball drills and had the opportunity to listen to author Wanda Taylor read two passages from her book, The Grover School Pledge at the MLSE Launchpad as part of the program launch.

"We are excited to announce the fifth annual Raptors 905 Summer Reading program with our incredible community partners,” said Courtney Charles, Vice President, Basketball & Franchise Operations. "At Raptors 905, we understand the importance of children reading. As the foundation of knowledge, reading is a lifelong skill that educates, stimulates creativity, and supports development, and we are thrilled to be a part of it."

Students participating in the challenge will also read Mortified, by Kristy Jackson; A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee; Monkey King and the World of Myths: The Monster and the Maze, by Maple Lam and the Secret Library by Kekla Magoon.