Teachers assign book reports to encourage students to read and to test comprehension. The requirements for a successful book report usually include the author's name, how many pages are included in the book and the main idea with a brief synopsis. By the time a child reaches third grade he should be capable of reading a book with several chapters. If you're a teacher looking for fresh book report ideas try a biography book report.
Dress the part
Tell each student to read a biography. It can be somebody they admire or someone who contributed to a field they have an interest in. Each student is to dress up as their subject and present the story of his or her life to the class. Part of the assignment is graded on creativity and the ability to portray the time period in which the subject lived, so encourage props to help them in their presentations.
Group effort
Think of a theme like presidents or famous artists, or explorers. Divide your class into groups. Assign each group to read a different biography in the same theme. After they have read the book ask them to write a short play or skit that highlights a major event in the life of their subject. Each group performs in front of the class. This is a great way to teach cooperation so encourage your students to help each other get a good grade.
Diorama
After each student has chosen his subject and read the biography, assign the task of making a diorama. A diorama is a depiction of a moment or event that can be showcased in a shoebox or similar-sized container. An example could be Thomas Edison inventing the light bulb or Betsy Ross sewing the first American flag. Props of all kinds can be used and each student gives an oral presentation and uses their diorama to point out a highlight of their subjects life.
