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A Black Woman in Finance Regains Her Agency

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By Lovia Gyarkye

• Sept. 13, 2021

ASSEMBLY By Natasha Brown

The narrator of Natasha Brown’s “Assembly” is a Black British woman. She is the obedient daughter of immigrants, the dutiful girlfriend to a self-satisfied liberal white man, and an amenable employee at a soul-crushing corporate bank in London. She floats through the world, chillingly observing others live their lives with hope and enthusiasm.

The narrator of this tightly conceived and distinctively written debut novel is perceptive, precise and unsparing with her words. Of a bitter co-worker who coasts as she toils, she says: “He rarely shows up before 11. As if each morning, fresh mediocrity slides out of the ocean, slimes its way over mossy rocks and sand, then sprouts skittering appendages that stretch and morph and twist into limbs as it forges on inland until finally, fully formed.” Yet, when it comes to herself, the narrator is coy, refusing to provide information that could sharpen her pixelated self-portrait. She has no name, no age and no preferences.

Brown’s taut novel arrives at a time of heightened and anxious interest in stories about the realities of anti-Black racism. “Assembly” will undoubtedly satiate the Anglophone publishing industry’s appetite for narratives about Black people’s experiences with white aggression — both macro and micro. (Brown’s attention to detail, especially about office life, reminded me of Raven Leilani’s “ Luster ,” while her inventive structure recalls Claudia Rankine’s “ Citizen .”) But this success should not overshadow the novel’s more interesting experiments with the elasticity of identity and the tensions between agency and powerlessness.

The novel begins with a familiar admission of the emptiness of racial triumph narratives. Standing before a group of eager young women during their school assembly, the protagonist inspires them with a well-trodden story about “hard work, pulling up laces, rolling up shirt sleeves and forcing yourself. Up. Overcoming, transcending, et cetera.” She — with a good education, a stable job, a new apartment and money — does not believe what comes out of her own mouth. But telling the truth is not an option; so she lies, and these events, which her white, male colleagues at the bank are never asked to speak at, are a success.

As the company’s face of diversity and progress, the narrator of “Assembly” is subject to everyone’s projections. Her jealous co-workers question her place at the company and in the country. Her boyfriend sees their relationship as proof of a post-racial myth. She feels suffocated by her world and sinks deeper into depression every day. When a doctor diagnoses her with cancer, the narrator sees an opportunity to regain control of her life. She gently but firmly declines treatment. “After years of struggling, fighting against the current, I’m ready to slow my arms,” she thinks. “Stop kicking. Breathe the water in. I’m exhausted. Perhaps it’s time to end this story.” It’s a surprising move that momentarily destabilizes the story’s believability. A reasonable person might wonder: Why deny treatment? To that, Brown asks bleakly: Why not?

With the narrator’s decision, “Assembly” becomes an elegiac examination of a Black woman’s life and an acerbic analysis of Britain’s racial landscape. Brown’s rhythmic, economic prose renders the narrator’s experiences with breathless clarity, especially the steady, gnawing stream of racial and sexual harassment she faces. At only 100 pages, the book moves at an almost dizzying speed. Vignettes are packed with detail and heavy doses of cultural criticism — the narrator has read bell hooks and is well versed in the language of colonialism and empire. At times, Brown struggles to balance the narrative and the criticism, favoring the still interesting but classic analysis over the more complicated and powerful story. Nonetheless, “Assembly” is a smart novel that takes risks with the questions it raises. I look forward to Brown’s next work, in which she might try — with the same refreshing conviction — to answer them.

Lovia Gyarkye, formerly an associate editor at The New York Times Magazine Labs, is a critic at The Hollywood Reporter.

ASSEMBLY By Natasha Brown 106 pp. Little, Brown & Company. $23.

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Book Review: Assembly by Natasha Brown

Feb 10, 2022 | Book Reviews , Literary Fiction | 10 comments

This slim little novel piqued my interest when I saw a short description of it in a catalogue. It touches upon race, class, gender, and the existential dread that millennials in particular seem to dwell upon, (what does it all mean? etc.) made even worse by the pandemic. Although Assembly by Natasha Brown doesn’t include Covid, the thoughts that cross the protagonist’s mind are certainly relatable as we all sit at home and ponder LIFE. The life of this particular woman is marked with the challenges she faces as a black woman in a largely male, white sector of high finance, and the success she has achieved in the traditional sense of the word. But what if that mark of success isn’t what everyone is striving for, it’s simply what we are told to strive for?

Plot Summary

It’s difficult to slot this book into one category; it reads like a cross between poetry and memoir, but it’s listed as fiction (most likely with a dash of realism because I have no doubt Brown also experienced many of these things). We are thrown into the life of an unnamed, young black woman who works at high-pressure blue-chip company. She is smart and incredibly hard-working, receiving a promotion above some of her white male colleagues, but as she is being told about her promotion they mention she is an example of their company’s ‘diversity’, which of course steals away any feelings of accomplishment. She has gone to school and gotten good grades, then a good job, then saved her money to buy a house, and is dating a good, white man with family money. Much of this pressure to succeed comes from her family’s situation, the fact that as immigrants they could only get so far in their lives, but they’ve sacrificed so she could rise higher in hers. The book ends with her trip to her boyfriend’s family’s estate for a lavish garden party, questioning whether she fits in there at all. The short dialogue included between her and her boyfriend is stilted, and he comes off as a self-obsessed narcissist who sees her as a symbol rather than a real person.

My Thoughts

I love a short book for many reasons, including the fact that authors who write short books are forced to include only the best of their writing, which is why I think this book is so taut and concise – no sentence is unnecessary. Actually it left me wanting more, I was disappointed when the book ended right before the actual party began because I wanted to see how the evening played out for our narrator.

There are subtle suggestions and mentions of other things going on in her life that contradict the perfect life she has cultivated – a (forced) affair with a higher up, and the diagnosis of a serious illness that could potentially kill her. Yet she remains almost emotionless about these elements, she is almost anesthetized to potential joys or fears, always focused on doing what’s right and expected of her. From the outside she is no doubt seen as ‘having it all’, but because we are privy to her interior thoughts, we know she is far from happy. When these very dramatic things are hinted at but never confirmed, it creates a sort of suspense that’s unexpected in a book like this. In fact, many parts of it almost read like poetry – nothing is ever obvious.

There is an exhaustion that emanates from the narrator, she is tired of working this job, tired of being quiet, and tired of being a symbol. As she lies next to her boyfriend in bed, unable to sleep due to her anxiety, she observes him:

“His presence vouches for mine, assures them that I’m the right sort of diversity. In turn, I offer him a certain liberal credibility. Negate some of this old-money political baggage. Assure his position left of centre”. -Assembly by Natasha Brown, p. 69

So much of this woman’s life is about how she compares the standard of whiteness, she can never be unique, or truly herself. As I write this review I realize the book sounds incredibly depressing, but I never felt the way when reading it. Instead, it revealed to me a privilege I’ve never given much thought to before, and that’s the freedom to be oneself despite the expectations of those around you.

Spread the Word!

10 comments.

This does sound good. I love a short book too! I might have to add this to my list for Novellas in November.

I think you’d enjoy it Laila, it’s very thought-provoking, as cliche as that sounds LOL

I think you’re right that these endless books about race and gender appeal mostly to younger people… 😉

I was under the impression that the woman in this book decides to just throw caution to the wind and be herself – and the fallout from that. Am I totally off the mark? Maybe that was another book… Lol

Sadly she does not feel comfortable being herself, and to be honest, I don’t think she even knows what being herself would look like, she’s been trying to fit into a mold her entire life…

The conversation around privilege is always sticky. By that, I mean it’s hard to talk to people about advantages they have that they didn’t earn. We’re talking about this in my interpreting class. I made a list of things that put me ahead that I didn’t earn, and even small things like having had braces to straighten my teeth are a privilege.

Oh that’s such a good point Melanie! And totally agree, it’s difficult to talk about this stuff because lots of people get defensive about it. It’s also hard to really untangle ‘earning’ certain things

You’re right, untangling “earning” is hard. For instance, if your parents own a home they bought for very little 50 years ago, and now that home is valued at 4x the original cost, did you “earn” that home when they left it to you in a will? They paid for it with their work, but given the shifting housing market, was their house really the product of effort or luck?

This is on my TBR: I’ve heard lots of praise and lots of frustration but even the readers who didn’t enjoy it said things about it that made me sure I will love it!

Plus it’s so short, it’s not too much of a commitment if you don’t love it. I did really like it though

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by Natasha Brown ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 14, 2021

A piercing meditation on identity and race in contemporary Britain.

A young Black woman considers her options.

At the center of this brilliant debut is a young Black British woman who works in finance. She works, and for as long as she can remember she has worked, in relentless pursuit of achievement, success, excellence. “I am everything they told me to become,” she says. Her White boyfriend comes from a moneyed old family, and an invitation to his parents’ anniversary party—a gargantuan affair—frames one end of this slim, swiftly moving novel. On the other end is a visit the narrator pays to her oncologist, where she discovers she has a decision to make. Between the oncologist and the party is an intense rumination on her choices, her life, and the pieces from which she’s managed to assemble an identity, however flawed. “I have emotions,” she says. “But I try to consider events as if they’re happening to someone else. Some other entity.” Indeed, the narrator seems painfully distant from both the people around her and the changes taking place in her life. She is constantly aware of how her appearance is utilized by others—part of her job, for instance, involves giving talks on diversity, for which her very presence is considered proof of her company’s success. In just over a hundred pages, Brown tackles not only race, but class, wealth, and gender disparities, the lingering effects of colonialism, and the limits of language (“How can I use such a language to examine the society it reinforces?” the narrator wonders). This is Brown’s first novel, and it has all the jagged clarity of a shard of broken glass.

Pub Date: Sept. 14, 2021

ISBN: 978-0-316-26826-4

Page Count: 112

Publisher: Little, Brown

Review Posted Online: Aug. 17, 2021

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 2021

LITERARY FICTION | GENERAL FICTION

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by Kristin Hannah ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 6, 2024

A dramatic, vividly detailed reconstruction of a little-known aspect of the Vietnam War.

A young woman’s experience as a nurse in Vietnam casts a deep shadow over her life.

When we learn that the farewell party in the opening scene is for Frances “Frankie” McGrath’s older brother—“a golden boy, a wild child who could make the hardest heart soften”—who is leaving to serve in Vietnam in 1966, we feel pretty certain that poor Finley McGrath is marked for death. Still, it’s a surprise when the fateful doorbell rings less than 20 pages later. His death inspires his sister to enlist as an Army nurse, and this turn of events is just the beginning of a roller coaster of a plot that’s impressive and engrossing if at times a bit formulaic. Hannah renders the experiences of the young women who served in Vietnam in all-encompassing detail. The first half of the book, set in gore-drenched hospital wards, mildewed dorm rooms, and boozy officers’ clubs, is an exciting read, tracking the transformation of virginal, uptight Frankie into a crack surgical nurse and woman of the world. Her tensely platonic romance with a married surgeon ends when his broken, unbreathing body is airlifted out by helicopter; she throws her pent-up passion into a wild affair with a soldier who happens to be her dead brother’s best friend. In the second part of the book, after the war, Frankie seems to experience every possible bad break. A drawback of the story is that none of the secondary characters in her life are fully three-dimensional: Her dismissive, chauvinistic father and tight-lipped, pill-popping mother, her fellow nurses, and her various love interests are more plot devices than people. You’ll wish you could have gone to Vegas and placed a bet on the ending—while it’s against all the odds, you’ll see it coming from a mile away.

Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024

ISBN: 9781250178633

Page Count: 480

Publisher: St. Martin's

Review Posted Online: Nov. 4, 2023

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2023

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by Percival Everett ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 19, 2024

One of the noblest characters in American literature gets a novel worthy of him.

Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn as told from the perspective of a more resourceful and contemplative Jim than the one you remember.

This isn’t the first novel to reimagine Twain’s 1885 masterpiece, but the audacious and prolific Everett dives into the very heart of Twain’s epochal odyssey, shifting the central viewpoint from that of the unschooled, often credulous, but basically good-hearted Huck to the more enigmatic and heroic Jim, the Black slave with whom the boy escapes via raft on the Mississippi River. As in the original, the threat of Jim’s being sold “down the river” and separated from his wife and daughter compels him to run away while figuring out what to do next. He's soon joined by Huck, who has faked his own death to get away from an abusive father, ramping up Jim’s panic. “Huck was supposedly murdered and I’d just run away,” Jim thinks. “Who did I think they would suspect of the heinous crime?” That Jim can, as he puts it, “[do] the math” on his predicament suggests how different Everett’s version is from Twain’s. First and foremost, there's the matter of the Black dialect Twain used to depict the speech of Jim and other Black characters—which, for many contemporary readers, hinders their enjoyment of his novel. In Everett’s telling, the dialect is a put-on, a manner of concealment, and a tactic for survival. “White folks expect us to sound a certain way and it can only help if we don’t disappoint them,” Jim explains. He also discloses that, in violation of custom and law, he learned to read the books in Judge Thatcher’s library, including Voltaire and John Locke, both of whom, in dreams and delirium, Jim finds himself debating about human rights and his own humanity. With and without Huck, Jim undergoes dangerous tribulations and hairbreadth escapes in an antebellum wilderness that’s much grimmer and bloodier than Twain’s. There’s also a revelation toward the end that, however stunning to devoted readers of the original, makes perfect sense.

Pub Date: March 19, 2024

ISBN: 9780385550369

Page Count: 320

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: Dec. 16, 2023

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 15, 2024

LITERARY FICTION | HISTORICAL FICTION | GENERAL FICTION

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Assembly by Natasha Brown review – the grind of everyday prejudice

This concise, emotive debut novel skilfully describes a black British woman’s life informed by racism

W ithin a neat 100 pages, Natasha Brown’s precise, powerful debut novel says more about Britain’s colonial legacy and what it’s like trying to exist within that as a black British woman than most could achieve with three times the space.

Her unnamed narrator appears to get everything she’s striven for: a big promotion at her finance firm and further initiation into her boyfriend’s world of white, old-money privilege via a garden party. But she’s also been diagnosed with cancer and her “success” suddenly feels hollow.

Told in fleeting vignettes, recalling the sparse style of Jenny Offill, Assembly offers a depressing kaleidoscope of the ways racism affects the narrator’s life, from all-out abuse from strangers, via colleagues who believe she has it easy thanks to “diversity”, to recognising how her presence gives her boyfriend a “certain liberal credibility”. No encounter or relationship, no success or failure, is untainted by assumptions based on the colour of her skin.

With distilled clarity, Brown conveys just how relentless and exhausting this feels. Her heroine has done everything she was supposed to do and yet it is still not enough. Her recognition that she will never win against the cancer of racial prejudice that infects every part of her life leads her to decide not to battle the literal cancer taking over her body. She chooses death, as a way to “transcend”.

Brown’s beautifully crafted brevity is stylistically potent, but can feel like an excuse for not fleshing out her story. The protagonist is keen to pass her wealth to a younger sister, but there’s little on that relationship or the emotional impact her death might wreak. There’s also no consideration that there’s any other way to live besides ambitiously ascending the career, class and property ladders. This means that, despite a poignant unpacking of her struggles, the narrator’s death wish can read like a melodramatic device. Why not drop out rather than drop dead?

Nonetheless, Assembly signals the arrival of a significant talent, one who brilliantly illuminates the entrenched inequalities of our time.

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BookBrowse Reviews Assembly by Natasha Brown

Summary  |  Excerpt  |  Reviews  |  Beyond the book  |  Read-Alikes  |  Genres & Themes  |  Author Bio

by Natasha Brown

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A British Jamaican woman who has achieved success in the London banking industry is diagnosed with cancer and faced with a decision: Seek treatment. Or endanger everything she has worked so hard for.

Author Natasha Brown posits a provocative idea in her debut novel Assembly : Racism is cancerous. She tells the story of a Black British Jamaican woman in London, a striver who manages her toxic work environment by pretending racial insults and derogatory comments don't bother her. But the cost of soldiering on deteriorates her mental and physical health. The narrator is at the end of her rope when she says, "I'm ready to slow my arms. Stop kicking. Breathe the water in. I'm exhausted. Perhaps it's time to end this story." Therein is the fascinating theme of Assembly , a story told in vignettes: The idea that racism isn't a nefarious object to be overcome, but that it punishes us first and then kills us. The unnamed narrator of Assembly delivers speeches resembling TED Talks to schoolgirls who marvel at her success. But her speeches are more performative than authentic. She privately wonders, "How many women and girls have I lied to? How many have seen my grinning face advocating for this or that firm, or this industry, or that university?" She feels like a fraud despite her multiple established identities: an immigrant daughter, a banking professional, an achiever. The intersection of what she is supposed to have (success) and what she has to overcome (racism) creates imposter syndrome (see Beyond the Book ). Haunting are the expectations: " Be the best. Work harder, work smarter. Exceed every expectation. But also, be invisible, imperceptible. Don't make anyone uncomfortable. Don't inconvenience. Exist in the negative only ." Even when she acts according to these expectations, she isn't safe, including from those of a lower economic class. She recounts a frightening experience of being called the n-word while waiting for the subway: "A panhandler at Aldgate, big guy, came up too close, and trapped me - between him and the steep drop down the tracks. He leaned right into my face and spat out those words. Then, laughing, he just walked away." It is a weary life she leads managing harassment and microaggressions. When she is diagnosed with cancer and delays treatment, it feels ironic: She is othered by the whites in her office, who bring up how much they despise quotas. And then, by default and perhaps as a consequence of racial exhaustion, she others herself by not treating her diagnosis. After reading about her negligence, I immediately thought of something Alice Walker wrote: "This life soon be over...Heaven last all ways." Walker wrote that line for her protagonist Celie in The Color Purple as something positive to hold on to in a bleak abusive situation. Although the heroines in Walker's novel and Assembly aren't very similar, they both struggle with the cruelty of men in addition to racism. Also, like Walker, Brown tiptoes her protagonist through episodic moments of haunting despair and suffocation. What makes Brown's story so affective and effective is that she writes lovely passages of her narrator's conflict: her external success and internal doubt. At work, despite her $2,000 office chair and corner window, she is seen as nothing more than a diversity hire, which leaves her feeling powerless despite her achievements. And at home, her privileged white boyfriend diminishes her wounds, suggesting that his wealth is the same as her success. There is no escaping her invisibility. Perhaps that is why Brown won't reveal the narrator's name, so we won't place her degrading experiences within personal parameters but institutional ones. The narrator herself is a bell hooks disciple, critical of the kind of colonialism from which she has prospered. She has an acute eye for social details and might be described as "woke," particularly as she dissects whiteness, diversity and her boyfriend's wealthy family, who politely grill her before feigning acceptance in a fake-liberal way reminiscent of the film Get Out and the social commentary that made it a global sensation. I appreciated the vignette style of Brown's writing more than I expected to. Assembly feels like tiny pieces of light stitched together with a thread that at any moment could break apart. The author is inventive and historical and poetic. She has written a personal story of racial wounds. Stylistically, the story feels like a memoir. It is written for a specific audience, one who accepts the narrator's premise of racism, disease and contempt. But it's more than that too. It's an immersive story that is brief but potent, one that shows what marginalized women experience in the dark moments of their workdays. It's a smart book that you can read on a rainy day in one sitting, one you will appreciate for its honesty. For the story it tells is a story that needs no explanation, either before or after. It stands on its own, a powerful work of art.

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July 18, 2022

School Assemblies: 13 Things Every Planner Should Know

It can be a little nerve-wracking, coordinating a school assembly performance.

Will students be bored? Will teachers feel it’s a big waste of time?

Will the custodian breath fire on you for disrupting the flow of his/her day?

Here’s What Assembly Performers Say. . .

Consider this your guide to making everyone – – students, teachers, administrators AND performers – – exceedingly happy.

I hope you will find something of real value here.

Please feel free to add your voice to the discussion in the comments section below.

So now, in no particular order, here they are. . .

 #1. 55 kids in a 400 seat auditorium stinks (usually)

If you’ll have a small group attending a presentation (say, less than 100 bodies), ask the performers if they’d prefer to work with the students in a smaller environment.

This may be counter to what the school is accustomed to ( “Oh, there’s a performance today? We do those in the cafeteria” ), but for many types of programs, some real magic can be created out of thin air simply by clearing a bit of space in the school library, or in a multipurpose room, or an LGI (large group instruction room), so students can be really “up close and personal” with the presenters.

Stuck in a large room?  Musician and forty year arts-in-education veteran Jeff Warner says “keep (students) from being too spread out in the room, especially if you have a large group. Best to have them sit on the floor, without chairs, reducing the area they take up. All this so they can see and hear you (the performer) better—and so that you can have better crowd control.”

OK, moving on . . .  (and speaking of “Oh, there’s a performance today?” . . .)

2. The custodian is your friend (sometimes)

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into the main office of a school and heard some version of the following exchange –

Custodian to Office:  “(long silence……………..) We have an assembly today? Nobody told me about this.”

Custodian to me, after leaving the office: “Nobody told me about this. I’ve got the whole school band set up on the stage. Nobody ever tells me anything. Grumble, grumble, grumble…”

Let the custodial staff know ahead of time if there’s going to be a performance that will affect them in any way. They’ll really appreciate it.

3. Let the teachers know what you’ve done!

Teachers have more on their plates today than ever before, and they’re feeling really squeezed for instruction time . Generally speaking, they don’t like to be surprised with assemblies unless you happen to be catching them in the middle of deep dark winter with no school holiday break in site (or anytime during the last two weeks of school).

You might even consider letting teachers know the topic ahead of time and allowing them to “opt out” if they have more pressing work to do. Same for “specials” teachers – they get to see their students so infrequently as it is, and they may be preparing for a special event such as a concert, recital, exhibition or play of their own.

4. Teachers don’t (always) like school assemblies

Related to the point above, teachers don’t always welcome assemblies that don’t connect to what they’re already teaching in class. My best advice here would be to consider offering grade-specific programming that actually ties into their curriculum.

Third graders learning about Amazonian Frogs? Bring in an expert for a special third grade presentation.

Kindergarten and First Grades focusing on Communities and Neighborhoods? There’s a concert for that.

Some of my favorite and most meaningful work in schools is when I get to be with one grade level at a time, using music to excite students in what they’re already learning in ELA, or Social Studies!

Call it arts integration , cross-curricular teaching , differentiated instruction – these are all education buzzwords for a reason, and there’s great power in using the arts to engage students in the core curriculum.

5. Don’t let the performers treat you like you’re a performing arts space

Because you’re not. Plain and simple; you are a school.

6. There might be a better way to group multiple grades

For my own work, I always gently ask that schools try  to schedule the sessions so that similar ages are grouped together.

I fully understand that things can’t always work that way, and I will always make the best of the situation whether working with a nice tight grouping of K-2 students or facing a session with Grades K, 1, and 6.

But, those big gaps in age can create a real dilemma for some performers in terms of keeping the younger students interested without alienating the older ones, and vice versa.

Judd Sunshine 

Judd Sunshine of performing group The Hill Brothers says “we love performing for different age groups, but if you can split your assembly audiences, i.e. younger grades and older grades, the performers can adjust each show to be age appropriate – it’s more fun for everyone involved.”

But that’s just one side of the coin . . .

Catskill Puppet Theater

John Potocnik from Catskill Puppet Theater feels completely differently for their shows.

He says, “when you mix the ages, the older kids teach the younger ones theater manners by showing them when to stop laughing at a joke or when to applaud at an appropriate place. In turn the young ones teach the older ones how to freely suspend disbelief and to let their imaginations have free reign to enjoy the show. I dare say they are both valuable lessons but I think the young ones are doing the most important job.”

Bottom line – if you have the flexibility to mix grade levels based on what will work best for the performers, ask your presenters what they’d prefer.

7. Don’t seat the preK’s right in the front. Please.

I love having the PreK students attend some of the K-2 or even K-5 programs that I do.

They love the music, they really benefit from the experience of being an audience member, and hey, they’re an easy laugh!

And I know, it’s tempting to seat them right up front because, well, they’re short, and they can’t see anything if they’re stuck behind a second grader.

But if you’re doing a show for the elementary grades, the preK’s will enjoy it just as much if seated off to one side, and everyone else (performers included) will be happier.

Again, Judd Sunshine: “That way the Pre-K’s can get up (as they often do), and this will also avoid their tendency to respond directly to the performer (which they also often do).”

8. Assigned seats are a problem, sometimes

“the spoken message is more effective the closer the members of an audience sit to each other”.

Thomas and Ralph were quoting one of the commonly-held notions from the fields of public speaking, persuasion, and psychology of speech, and although their tests found “there is not sufficient evidence to support the hypothesis,” I’m here to say that it’s true.

Every last bit of it.

So here’s the situation:

But if not all grade levels will be attending the performance, this can be a real energy killer, with vast islands of empty space between small groupings of students.

Just like you probably wouldn’t favor teaching a class to students who were seated sparsely with large gaps between each one, it can be difficult for performers to give you their most dynamic program if students are spread out over too much geography with big spaces between.

AND, there are far better seats/vantage points available that nobody is using!

9. The STOP time is as important as the start time

Sometimes, it takes longer than planned to get everyone into the performance space, seated and ready to go. If the performance is starting later than expected, the performers may have to cut their show short.

It’s best to let them know ahead of time if there is a time constraint on the ending of the program. This way, your presenters can adjust their show accordingly.

10. Introducing your own performance is . . . awkward

Going back to #5, you are not a performing arts presenter by profession, and the importance of a brief introduction to the program may not occur to you.

For many (most?) presentations though, this makes a big difference.

Even just a few short sentences from an authority figure who doesn’t mind speaking in public – principal, teacher, parent, etc – can set the tone for a wonderful event where performers feel welcomed and connected to the school, students understand who the performers are and why they’re there, and everyone can settle in from there.

The performers may have a pre-printed little “blurb” you can follow, or I’ve seen plenty of principals wing this intro without any real knowledge of the performers or the topic!

(Not recommended, but it can work in a pinch.)

So, nothing to stress over, but this is the preferred way to start an event for most performers who are visiting your school for the first or second time.

11. It’s not over when it’s over

A selfie: Nancy Sterman-Fernandez of Young Audiences

Nancy Sterman-Fernandez, Director of Education at Young Audiences of Western NY , has a great tip for extending the value of any assembly program.

“Be sure to take some of the tools the artist uses during the performance to use in your own classroom,” she says.

“Maybe even sing the songs you learned or do the dance steps to connect this shared experience with your classroom curriculum.”

Indeed, most artists that come through your doors would be delighted to offer you advice and resources to help extend the learning and excitement .

12. Performers (and kids!) love it when teachers show up

Of course, that’s “show up” as in being here and being present,  as opposed to I’m here but I need to grade papers, or,  I’m sending the students with a TA to the assembly because I have too much to do .

Believe me, we completely understand that sometimes there’s just more work to be done than there is time. An assembly can be a much-needed break for the teaching staff.

But, if at all possible, it would be great if you could encourage the teachers to take in the assembly with  their students.

Regi Carpenter

Veteran storyteller, author and performer Regi Carpenter   suggests using the program “as a time to create something memorable. An assembly can be a fun time for the school community to be together in joy and wonder.”

Teachers participating right along with students sends several strong signals to the kids (and performers), and believe me, it  always makes for a better show.

#13. The web is your friend

Sometimes, you’re really starting from scratch.

In that case, a quick little internet search will turn up more resources that might be of help to you.

In a five minute session, I found  a really useful article from PTO Today  on choosing and booking a performance.

Putting on your own assembly? You might want to check this one out, and the brand new eBook below.

I hope you’ll let me know what else you turn up…. 

 Wondering How To Make School Assemblies Interesting?

• Command the attention of the room
• Keep your audience engaged
• Reach every student
• Tips and best practices from a life on the stage

I’m happy to share those with you!

About The Author

Dave has been extensively involved in the arts-in-education field since 1995, using music to teach core curriculum and inspire young learners through school assemblies, workshops, residencies , and distance learning programs .

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15 Responses to School Assemblies: 13 Things Every Planner Should Know

hello, Dave I go to fairs and festivals and teach about dinosaurs I have a great display of dinosaur fossils. I would like to bring that this place to schools for children. What must I do to get started? What would be a good price to charge? Thank you for all your help Wonder zone dinosaur zoo.

Herbert – this article should be very helpful: https://daveruch.com/advice/how-to-get-gigs-in-schools/

The best resources on the internet for artists and teachers about arts education. Such a rich pool of TLM ( Teaching Learning Materials). You are the best.

Sign me up!

For a school assembly, who should be drafting the contract? Beyond the rate for the performance and travel expenses, should we the PTA be covering food and lodging?

Kerry – in my experience here in the northeastern US, it’s the performer who typically issues thge contract, and things like food and lodging would be individually negotiated – some will ask for that, others will build it into their price or just cover it themselves. Hope that helps. Where are you located?

Yaa its what a good learning for me..thnkew for it..??

Glad to hear it Tanya!

I led an assembly on Tuesday and these pointers are right on! We were talking about the character trait of responsibility and several teachers acted out scenerios (some responsible and others not so much!) We had over 1000 people in our gym and with a key phrase we quieted them down. This time is was me saying “Get set” and they replying “you be”! We have a key phrase each time so the teachers can use them in their classrooms if they want. It is much better than saying “shhhhh!” Thanks for sharing your ideas… Next assembly is a our second grade music concert on November 3. This involves almost 200 students.

Great to hear Deb, thanks for sharing. I’m going to email you a song about respect that you can use with your students, from the days when I was a Hill Brother ( http://www.hillbrothers.net ). We wrote a whole show and a group of songs about the character traits of respect and responsibility. Lots of fun to be had with those topics, as I’m sure your students saw on Tuesday,

We are really looking forward to the concert, because last year’s performance was so engaging !!! Thank you for offering this opportunity .

Glad to hear it Debby!

glad to hear reply from you all

can you say me articles if any?

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Top 20 School Assembly Ideas

Written by Dan

Last updated February 13, 2024

Are you looking for ideas to liven up your school assemblies? Here are some great suggestions to get you started!

From fun and interactive presentations to engaging guest speakers, there are plenty of ways to make your assemblies more exciting and worthwhile for students and staff.

So try out these ideas and see what works best for your school!

Related : For more, check out our article on the Top 20 School Trip Ideas .

Table of Contents

Assembly Idea 1: Climate Change

Start your academic year with an assembly that educates students about climate change and its effects. Students can hear firsthand about the current U.S. government policies, ways to fight climate change locally, and global initiatives taking place to help protect the environment.

Your assembly can also feature a panel discussion with advocates, climate researchers, or local activists, providing their insight into the impacts of climate change and what actions we can take as a community to support environmentalism.

This assembly is a great way to arm your student body with meaningful knowledge and tools they can use to make a difference in our planet’s future!

Check out the Class Assembly Scripts we have written for each year group!

Assembly Idea 2: Fireworks Night/ The Gunpowder Plot

Fireworks Night or The Gunpowder Plot are great ideas for school assemblies! This assembly combines history and excitement as it recreates the infamous plot hatched by a group of English Catholics to blow up the House of Lords. Learning more about this famous historical event is an excellent opportunity for the students.

With a dramatic narration, re-enactment, and plenty of exploding sound effects, teachers and students alike can enjoy this creative approach to learning. A bonus is that students experience the thrill of fireworks during their school day!

Assembly Idea 3: The History Of Halloween

As we approach the end of October, why not use our school assembly time to explore the history of Halloween? We can look back to ancient Celtic and Christian celebrations that have evolved into the fun holiday we all enjoy today.

Students can learn about its origins while still having lots of fun—from sharing costumes and incorporating games into the assembly.

Exploring different cultures is an invaluable opportunity, and learning about the history of Halloween is a great way to do this. It will give members of our school community a newfound appreciation for what makes Halloween so unique.

Assembly Idea 4: The Meaning of Christmas

With decorations and festivities, the Christmas season offers children an opportunity to learn about this holiday’s history. At your school assembly, challenge students to think about the meaning of Christmas by discussing how it evolved in both a secular and spiritual context.

Bring in particular interactive elements such as carolling or special music that reinforces the importance of the holiday message that emphasises love, joy, hope, and peace.

You can also invite guest speakers with personal stories to share relevant to the theme of Christmas to help bring your points home. This assembly will foster powerful conversations and meaningful reflection on what makes Christmas and life exceptional and inspiring!

Assembly Idea 5: New Year Resolutions

A new school year brings a chance to set big goals, think about improving, and have fun! A New Year Resolution assembly idea makes it easy to get the whole school thinking, setting goals, and having a blast while doing it. Have an explanation of a New Year resolution and examples of some real answers from students. Encourage everyone to take part and make their own.

To make this interactive, you could allow students to share some of their resolutions in front of the school, motivating them to stick with those resolutions throughout the year. It’s also an excellent way for other students and staff to become inspired by each other’s ideas and advice.

What better way to kick off a fantastic academic year than with an inspirational new effort radiating throughout the school?

Assembly Idea 6: The Start of Spring

As the winter snow melts away and leaves new life in its wake, it’s time to celebrate the start of spring with an assembly idea that allows your student body to connect with nature! Planting a school garden or beautification project is a great way for students to get outside and create meaningful change.

Not only can this activity help with class unity, but it will also make the school more attractive and often more environmentally conscious. Incorporating special activities like an art mural project or light engineering challenge could provide a fun and educational experience for everyone involved.

By introducing the season of growth and renewal through an assembly focused on making nature-based changes, your student body can embody those feelings all year!

Assembly Idea 7: How To Beat Exam Stress

As the school year progresses and exams come around, it’s normal for some students to become overwhelmed with stress. An assembly focused on coping with exam stress can be a great way to remind everyone of how they can better manage their time and emotions during this busy time.

You can also give students a chance to practice breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, visualisation and goal-setting exercises that they can use during their exams.

Finally, emphasise the importance of taking breaks and getting enough rest during this period so your students can be in the best condition to tackle the challenges ahead!

Assembly Idea 8: Harvest Festival/ Food Banks

As the farming season approaches, host an assembly on food banks and how to give back to those in need. Talk about volunteering and donating to food banks during this time of year.

Have local food bank volunteer volunteers explain what they do and why it’s so crucial for people in the community to participate. You can also organise a food drive within the school or encourage students to volunteer with a local food bank.

By emphasising how everyone can make a difference in someone else’s life, your assembly will surely leave everyone feeling empowered and inspired!

Assembly Idea 9: Global Citizen

Encourage cultural understanding and awareness of our global community by hosting an assembly celebrating differences. Have a guest speaker or panel who can speak about their own culture and experiences living abroad.

You could also organise an interactive activity where students are asked to explore different cultures, such as trying new foods, listening to traditional music, and learning about other religions and customs.

This type of assembly would help open your student’s minds to our diverse and vibrant world while fostering a sense of appreciation for different cultures.

Assembly Idea 10: Children’s Mental Health Week

Mental health is an increasingly important topic, especially regarding children. Hosting an assembly honouring Children’s Mental Health week would raise awareness and support anyone struggling with mental health issues.

Invite guest speakers or experts who can talk about the importance of understanding and addressing mental health issues and how to seek help if needed.

This assembly could also focus on mindful breathing and relaxation exercises that children can practice at home or a creative outlet like art therapy during which students can express their feelings.

By providing this support, your student body will be better equipped with the resources to cope with mental health challenges.

Assembly Idea 11: Anti-Bullying Week

Bullying and cyberbullying are serious issues that can have a lasting impact on young people. Hosting an assembly to commemorate Anti-Bullying Week is one way to ensure your student body is informed about the importance of kindness and respect for others.

You could hold an interactive activity or workshop to help students role-play different scenarios where someone is being bullied so that they can practice responding positively.

By emphasising the importance of creating a safe, respectful learning environment for everyone, your assembly will help ensure that all students feel supported and respected.

Assembly Idea 12: World Book Day

Holding a special assembly to commemorate World Book Day is an excellent way to encourage students to read and explore literature. Invite authors, illustrators, librarians, or other book lovers who can discuss the importance of reading and how it has impacted their lives.

You can also organise a book drive within the school to donate books to those in need or provide students with the opportunity to discuss their favourite books and authors during an interactive activity.

Celebrating World Book Day can help foster a love of reading and writing amongst your student body!

Assembly Idea 13: Earth Day

Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22nd, making it the perfect occasion for a classroom assembly.

You could also organise an activity or workshop where students are encouraged to devise creative solutions for reducing waste or conserving energy in their school and community.

By celebrating Earth Day, you can help your students become environmentally conscious citizens passionate about protecting our planet!

Assembly Idea 14: Lunch Hall Etiquette

Good manners and etiquette are essential for a respectful and welcoming learning environment. Hosting an assembly focused on lunch hall etiquette is one way to ensure that your student body understands the importance of being courteous while in the cafeteria.

Invite guests such as chefs, dietitians, or nutrition experts who can discuss proper behaviour when eating in the lunch hall. You can also hold a fun interactive activity or workshop to help students practice good manners at mealtime.

By emphasising the importance of being polite in the cafeteria, your assembly will help create a positive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable!

Assembly Idea 15: Behaviour Management Expectations

Effects of poor behaviour can extend far beyond the classroom and have lasting impacts on students and their peers. Invite guest speakers trained in positive behaviour management to your assembly to discuss key strategies for managing challenging behaviours.

You could also allow students to role-play different scenarios where someone is exhibiting negative behaviour so that they can practice responding positively and effectively.

By emphasising the importance of respectful behaviour, your assembly will help create an inclusive learning environment for all students!

Assembly Idea 16: Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is an essential skill that students need to develop to become financially responsible adults. Invite financial experts or entrepreneurs who can speak about budgeting, saving, and investing.

You can also organise an interactive activity or workshop where students can practice creating a simple budget and deciding how to allocate their money.

By emphasising the importance of understanding financial concepts, your assembly will help equip your students with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions!

Assembly Idea 17: Anti-Bullying Week

Bullying is an issue that affects students in all grade levels. Celebrate Anti-Bullying Week with a classroom assembly to spread awareness about the lasting effects of bullying and how everyone can take a stand against it.

Invite guest speakers who have experienced or witnessed bullying and are trained in positive behaviour management .

You could also provide students with resources to ensure they know their rights and responsibilities regarding bullying. By celebrating Week, you can create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected!

Assembly Idea 18: Switch Off Fortnight

As global citizens, we must do our part to conserve energy. Hold a Switch Off Fortnight assembly to help your students become more conscious of how much electricity they use and its environmental impact.

Invite guest speakers who can discuss how small changes like switching off lights and unplugging appliances when not in use can make a big difference.

You can also organise interactive activities and workshops to help students learn about energy conservation and develop strategies for reducing their electricity usage.

By emphasising the importance of conserving energy, your assembly will help your students become environmentally responsible citizens!

Assembly Idea 19: Black History Month

Black History Month is a necessary time to celebrate the histories and achievements of black people in America. Invite guest speakers who can discuss the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history, as well as their continued fight for equality and justice.

You could also organise activities or workshops to help students learn about influential black figures in American history or create a school-wide art project to commemorate and celebrate the accomplishments of black people.

By highlighting the importance of Black History Month, your assembly will help students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for African Americans’ contributions to our society!

Assembly Idea 20: Sports Day

Sports Day is a great way to get students excited and involved in physical activities. Invite professional athletes or coaches from your local sports team to discuss the importance of leading an active lifestyle.

You can also organise interactive games and activities incorporating different sports skills and techniques.

Celebrate the day with a school-wide tournament where everyone can participate and compete against each other.

By emphasising the importance of physical activity and healthy competition, your assembly will help foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among your students!

Assemblies are a great way to get everyone in the school together and discuss essential issues. If you’re looking for ideas, here are 20 assembly ideas your students will love.

Do you have any other assembly ideas that have been a hit with your students? Let us know in the comments below!

What is a school assembly?

A school assembly is a gathering of all or part of a school for the purpose of conveying information or conducting a special activity. It’s a platform where students learn collectively, engage with different topics, and share experiences.

Why are assemblies important in schools?

Assemblies are integral to the educational experience. They foster a sense of community, provide a platform for students to express themselves, and offer an opportunity to discuss important issues. They also help in instilling values like respect, empathy, and teamwork among students.

What topics are usually covered in school assemblies?

Topics can range widely depending on the age group and the school’s curriculum. They might include academic achievements, school announcements, cultural celebrations, discussions on social issues, or guest speaker presentations.

Are parents allowed to attend school assemblies?

This varies from school to school. Some schools encourage parental involvement and invite parents to certain assemblies, while others may limit attendance to staff and students. It’s best to check with your child’s school for their specific policy.

How can I make school assemblies more engaging?

Variety is key. Mix up the format – consider guest speakers, student-led presentations, interactive activities, and multimedia. Also, make sure the content is relevant and relatable to the students’ lives.

How often should a school hold assemblies?

The frequency of assemblies depends on the school’s schedule and objectives. Some schools hold them daily, some weekly, and others schedule them as needed for special occasions or events.

Related Posts

About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

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Igniting Their Imagination: Promoting Reading Through Assembly Shows

Reading is a fundamental skill that can help children and students develop other lifelong skills. According to a  survey from YouGov , almost nine in ten American adults say that when they were growing up, they read books. These books spanned various genres, including mystery and crime (40%), fantasy (36%), science fiction (36%), and young adult (30%). At the same time, survey results indicate that the proportion of people who say that when they read books growing up decreases with age. In short, the more recent an American’s childhood, the less likely it was to involve reading books. On the other hand, digital technology advancements have made books and reading a lot more accessible for both children and adults. Nowadays, readers can easily find various titles and genres of  ebooks on Everand , an ebook and audiobook subscription service. These include titles like The Red Balloon and The Snake Charmer — both of which we feature in our reading-themed assembly called The Magic Bookshelf  as a way to motivate kids to seek out stories and the joy of reading. With digital access to books like these, kids can participate in reading and book discussions without worrying about where they can buy the titles. Given the increased accessibility to reading and books, schools and adults must foster an encouraging environment where children are motivated and intrigued to read and read  more . In this post, we’ll introduce how school assembly shows, when done right, can help promote reading among children:

Interactive storytelling

One of the key things shared by school assembly shows and reading is the penchant for interactive storytelling. Through assembly shows, performers can bring to life stories and narratives only known through books. Teachers may find it challenging to motivate children to read in a regular classroom setting. In a past  post titled “Unlocking the Potential in Elementary Education” , we highlighted how bringing in talented outsiders to teach the same concepts via performance in assemblies can encourage kids to be more attentive and absorb new information. At the same time, assembly shows can boost creativity and imagination by providing kids with a new avenue for self-expression and confidence, giving them a platform to overcome inhibitions and actively participate. Elements of interactive storytelling in assembly shows can help kids participate more in their learning process and may lead them to seek out their own learning — by reading.

Themed assemblies

Another way that assembly shows can help encourage reading among children is by holding themed assemblies. Often, schools can plan themed assembly shows in commemoration of certain dates or local celebrations. For example, schools may work with a local zoo to bring in animals for kids to see. Likewise, in the spirit of promoting reading, schools can work with local libraries or bookstores for a book-themed assembly show. These can also include guest appearances from local or known authors so that kids can learn about books from the other end of the business. Part of our lineup of curriculum shows —  the 45-minute show The Magic Bookshelf  — features classic titles that motivate kids to read, like The Cat in the Hat, or the aforementioned The Red Balloon. Through these reading assemblies, students can learn about authors, genres, and the art of reading in an immersive experience.

Book character performances

Finally, combining the two ideas above — assembly shows can also be a way to offer book character performances. These can be planned to look like mini theater performances focused on books or book characters that kids are familiar with, from superheroes to demigods and knights in fantasy books. For many young children, character performances in assemblies are likely their first exposure to the art of theater and performance and can provide a more enriching experience beyond reading. Experts have long praised the benefits of introducing children to theater, including  boosting SAT scores  and significantly improving creative thinking and originality. Other research has also shown that theater kids demonstrate improved reading comprehension, including reading strategy and a more positive attitude toward reading. While assembly shows aren’t always theater-like, planning specific book character performances and avenues for storytelling can be a great way to keep kids engaged and motivated to read more.

To learn more about our reading assembly shows which also include our campout themed Adventures in Reading show, please click below or call Doug Scheer at (248) 891-1900.

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A school assembly provides a wonderful platform for promoting your book and introducing yourself to your audience, but you’d better be ready to put on a show.

There’s one thing I was unprepared for in my career as a writer: how much public speaking and performing I was going to have to do. It makes sense for a musician to have to put on public performances as a way to promote their music, but for an author, it has always struck me as kind of weird. Frankly, part of the appeal of becoming a writer in the first place was that I wouldn’t have to do anything in public. But let me tell you, if you write children’s books, the best way to promote and sell your books is to get out there and put on a show. Literally.

Schools love having authors come in to do school assemblies. It’s a fun way to promote literacy and a nice change of pace for students and teachers.

Now that it’s summer, this is the perfect time to hone your presentation and start to get some gigs lined up for the coming school year.

Classroom visit vs. assembly

By the way, there are two different kinds of school visits: classroom visits, where you are speaking to one or possibly two classrooms; and assemblies, where you are speaking to possibly hundreds of kids. Both are great, but there’s a difference that goes beyond just the number of students you’ll be speaking to. A classroom visit is a quiet, intimate event. You can simply read your book (or part of it) aloud and take questions. This is especially true for younger children. That won’t work for an assembly. There you’re going to be expected to put on more of a spectacle.

You’re going to want to double check this when you’re booking your visit, but a typical assembly is going to last one period, which is 50 minutes. That doesn’t mean you need 50 minutes of material. You really only a good solid 20 minutes. The rest of the time will be taken up by getting the kids seated, introductions, answering questions, and (hopefully) some time for kids to meet you and buy a book.

Keep an eye on the clock. Don’t go too long as kids’ days are tightly scheduled and they have places to be.

The key to a successful assembly presentation is to make it 50% educational and 50% fun. You don’t have to do anything truly deep or sophisticated — this is especially true if you’re going to be speaking to younger (K-2) kids. You just need to get kids involved.

If you are promoting a book with a strong message, then your presentation should be about that. Not only will that help you sell more books, but it’s also a subject you’re already familiar with.

If your books don’t have a strong moral, then you want to do a presentation that is in the spirit of your book. For example, my Mr. Pants books aren’t really about anything, they’re more just excuses to explore sibling and parent-child relationships. I could have chosen to do an assembly on family relationships, I guess, but my books are irreverent. They’re like Seinfeld for kids. Anything the slightest bit serious would have been out-of-step with the books. Instead, I did a presentation on the art of storytelling. This allowed me to be funny and to talk about something kids are interested in.

If you’re still not sure what to talk about, you can ask the teachers what they’re studying in school and see if there’s a way to tie that in to your book. Teachers will love you if you can do an assembly that relates to what they’re teaching.

Don’t panic if you are expecting to do an assembly for first and second graders and then find out that the entire elementary school is going to be there. That happens. Again, teachers love assemblies; I have found that, more often than not, every class is going to want to get in on the action—especially if you’re performing in the winter, in the middle of a long stretch between holidays. This shouldn’t be a problem for your presentation unless you’re really focused on something only younger kids will be interested in. Again, keeping things light and general is going to appeal to a wide age range, so you should be fine.

However, if you are visiting a school that is K-8, be sure to let the school know what age range you’re targeting, because, unless you’re a magician, you’re not going to be able to please that wide of an age gap. You can easily do a presentation that will appeal to 6-8 graders, or K-5, but not both groups.

Visual props are great. These can be as simple as puppets or printed pictures (though make sure they’re large enough to be seen from 50 feet away). But doing a more AV-centric presentation is better.

Be sure to let the school know what you need, like a microphone, and/or a projector and screen. I’ve learned from experience that your computer may not be compatible with their projection system, so either bring your own collection of AV cables or bring a thumb drive with your presentation on it so you can use their computer (which is probably already hooked up to a projector). If you put together your presentation on a Mac computer, make sure whatever program you’re using is compatible with the school’s computer, which is likely to be Windows.

And don’t forget to project your name and book title at the beginning and the end of your presentation. A little branding never hurts.

Participation

Unless you’re a professional comedian, you’re going to lose your audience if your presentation is just you talking for 20 minutes. Be sure to engage the kids to keep them interested.

Ask questions. In my presentation on the art of storytelling, I began by asking the kids who they’d rather be, Batman or Superman. This got them involved right away and they were immediately excited because I was asking about a topic they don’t normally get to discuss in school. Warning: if kids are excited about the question and have strong feelings about it, they will shout, so be sure to emphasize beforehand that everyone should raise their hands.

Ask for volunteers. Get kids to come up and help you. This always lights up the room. Maybe have a prepared activity for them to do, like act out a simple play, or ask them to hold props.

Take a poll. Maybe you have an overarching lesson you want to teach. A good way to begin your presentation is to ask kids how they feel about the subject, then poll them again afterward to see if you’ve changed their minds

Tell a story

Stories are how we learn. They offer us a way to see the world from a different perspective. Plus, they’re inherently interesting. At some point in your presentation, if you can, you should tell a story, which will help you pull your kids in. It can be fiction or it can be from your life. Stories also offer you great opportunities to ask questions: “And do you know what happened next?”

Sing, dance, juggle…

Hey, if you have any fun performance talents, here’s a good time to show them off. Heck, if you’re a terrible juggler, that could be a great gag. Kids like it when adults are good at things, but they absolutely LOVE it when adults aren’t afraid to be goofy and make jokes at their own expense.

By the way, when talking to kids, make sure you just talk to them in a normal voice. Don’t talk down to them. Use the same tone of voice you’d use when talking to an adult. It helps to modify your vocabulary, but don’t be afraid to use big words. Remember, kids are smart, most of the time they’re going to figure out the gist of what you’re saying through context. If you use a word and you think kids don’t know what that means… this is a good opportunity to ask a question: “Does anyone know what I mean when I say ‘antagonist?’”

Kids will want to ask you questions, and this is often the most interesting part of the assembly, so be sure to leave plenty of time for this.

Note, however, that younger kids aren’t necessarily going to ask you questions, they want to tell you things, and often these things will have little to do with what you’ve been talking about for the past 20 minutes. They’ll tell you things their brother did or how they went to the zoo last weekend. Don’t panic or think that your whole presentation has gone completely over their heads. This is normal. See if you can tie it back in to your point. If you can’t — and trust me, it’s often not easy — you can just reply with a short, positive quip (“Wow, that’s great!” or “Your brother sounds like a real comedian!”) and move on to the next question.

Keep tweaking

Putting on a great assembly is not a “set it and forget it” kind of deal. You’re going to find that some things work better than others, and things you may have thrown in as a side note will unexpectedly make a huge splash. Keep tweaking your presentation, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Also, every audience is different. So something that worked great in your first show may bomb in your next, and vice versa. It’s not always clear what’s going to work or why it works. I made an off-the-cuff joke at one show that killed, so I used it in my next few appearances and each time it was met with crickets. If something bombs, don’t stress, just keep going. Kids quickly forgive and forget.

Tune in next time

If you are nervous about the idea of performing in front of hundreds of kids, don’t be. In the next article I’ll go over how to get school gigs, and to properly prepare for them so your audience will love you even before you arrive.

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I really enjoyed the information on how to promote your children’s books. Great ideas.

[…] Posts My Self-Publishing Experience. Part I: Placing An Order Promoting Your Book (And Yourself) At A School Assembly Your Author Website Must Have… Self Publishing Lets You Take Creative Control How To Work With A […]

I enjoyed your article because it helps me understand how to eventually market my book which is still being worked on between my illustrator and myself. Eventually, it will need formatting and editing for self-publishing. I also work as a substitute teacher during the school year and am interested in all students becoming literate as well as increasing their literacy levels. Kids especially young boys really love your books. I enjoyed how you were already exploring art and writing sitting outside the principal’s office in your childhood.

Thank you! Good luck with your book!

[…] This is the second of a two-part series on school assemblies. Read part one, “Promoting Your Book (And Yourself) At A School Assembly.” […]

I love the idea. I’ve been doing “events” at Barnes & Nobles in my area and Half Price Books. I have them help me act out the story. We discuss what’s going on and when I’m done with two books, we also play games like, 5 little pumpkins, This little piggie and so on. I also bring coloring pages for the kids to color or take home or both. They’re pages from my books. I write children’s books – ages 4 – 7 and have 2 published with more to come.

This is priceless information! Thank you for your time in writing the blog, Scott.

Enjoyed your article.

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How to Write a Book Review: The Ultimate Guide

WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW?

Traditionally, book reviews are evaluations of a recently published book in any genre. Usually, around the 500 to 700-word mark, they briefly describe a text’s main elements while appraising the work’s strengths and weaknesses. Published book reviews can appear in newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. They provide the reader with an overview of the book itself and indicate whether or not the reviewer would recommend the book to the reader.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BOOK REVIEW?

There was a time when book reviews were a regular appearance in every quality newspaper and many periodicals. They were essential elements in whether or not a book would sell well. A review from a heavyweight critic could often be the deciding factor in whether a book became a bestseller or a damp squib. In the last few decades, however, the book review’s influence has waned considerably, with many potential book buyers preferring to consult customer reviews on Amazon, or sites like Goodreads, before buying. As a result, book review’s appearance in newspapers, journals, and digital media has become less frequent.

WHY BOTHER TEACHING STUDENTS TO WRITE BOOK REVIEWS AT ALL?

Even in the heyday of the book review’s influence, few students who learned the craft of writing a book review became literary critics! The real value of crafting a well-written book review for a student does not lie in their ability to impact book sales. Understanding how to produce a well-written book review helps students to:

●     Engage critically with a text

●     Critically evaluate a text

●     Respond personally to a range of different writing genres

●     Improve their own reading, writing, and thinking skills.

Not to Be Confused with a Book Report!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOOK REVIEW AND A BOOK REPORT?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are clear differences in both the purpose and the format of the two genres. Generally speaking, book reports aim to give a more detailed outline of what occurs in a book. A book report on a work of fiction will tend to give a comprehensive account of the characters, major plot lines, and themes in the book. Book reports are usually written around the K-12 age range, while book reviews tend not to be undertaken by those at the younger end of this age range due to the need for the higher-level critical skills required in writing them. At their highest expression, book reviews are written at the college level and by professional critics.

Learn how to write a book review step by step with our complete guide for students and teachers by familiarizing yourself with the structure and features.

BOOK REVIEW STRUCTURE

ANALYZE Evaluate the book with a critical mind.

THOROUGHNESS The whole is greater than the sum of all its parts. Review the book as a WHOLE.

COMPARE Where appropriate compare to similar texts and genres.

THUMBS UP OR DOWN? You are going to have to inevitably recommend or reject this book to potential readers.

BE CONSISTENT Take a stance and stick with it throughout your review.

FEATURES OF A BOOK REVIEW

PAST TENSE You are writing about a book you have already read.

EMOTIVE LANGUAGE Whatever your stance or opinion be passionate about it. Your audience will thank you for it.

VOICE Both active and passive voice are used in recounts.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TEXTS

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This collection of  21 INDEPENDENT TASKS  and  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS  takes students beyond the hype, special effects and trailers to look at visual literacy from several perspectives offering DEEP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES by watching a  SERIES, DOCUMENTARY, FILM, and even  VIDEO GAMES.

ELEMENTS OF A BOOK REVIEW

As with any of the writing genres we teach our students, a book review can be helpfully explained in terms of criteria. While there is much to the ‘art’ of writing, there is also, thankfully, a lot of the nuts and bolts that can be listed too. Have students consider the following elements before writing:

●     Title: Often, the title of the book review will correspond to the title of the text itself, but there may also be some examination of the title’s relevance. How does it fit into the purpose of the work as a whole? Does it convey a message or reveal larger themes explored within the work?

●     Author: Within the book review, there may be some discussion of who the author is and what they have written before, especially if it relates to the current work being reviewed. There may be some mention of the author’s style and what they are best known for. If the author has received any awards or prizes, this may also be mentioned within the body of the review.

●     Genre: A book review will identify the genre that the book belongs to, whether fiction or nonfiction, poetry, romance, science-fiction, history etc. The genre will likely tie in, too with who the intended audience for the book is and what the overall purpose of the work is.

●     Book Jacket / Cover: Often, a book’s cover will contain artwork that is worthy of comment. It may contain interesting details related to the text that contribute to, or detract from, the work as a whole.

●     Structure: The book’s structure will often be heavily informed by its genre. Have students examine how the book is organized before writing their review. Does it contain a preface from a guest editor, for example? Is it written in sections or chapters? Does it have a table of contents, index, glossary etc.? While all these details may not make it into the review itself, looking at how the book is structured may reveal some interesting aspects.

●     Publisher and Price: A book review will usually contain details of who publishes the book and its cost. A review will often provide details of where the book is available too.

BOOK REVIEW KEY ELEMENTS

As students read and engage with the work they will review, they will develop a sense of the shape their review will take. This will begin with the summary. Encourage students to take notes during the reading of the work that will help them in writing the summary that will form an essential part of their review. Aspects of the book they may wish to take notes on in a work of fiction may include:

●     Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their motivations? Are they convincingly drawn? Or are they empathetic characters?

●     Themes: What are the main themes of the work? Are there recurring motifs in the work? Is the exploration of the themes deep or surface only?

●     Style: What are the key aspects of the writer’s style? How does it fit into the wider literary world?

●     Plot: What is the story’s main catalyst? What happens in the rising action? What are the story’s subplots? 

A book review will generally begin with a short summary of the work itself. However, it is important not to give too much away, remind students – no spoilers, please! For nonfiction works, this may be a summary of the main arguments of the work, again, without giving too much detail away. In a work of fiction, a book review will often summarise up to the rising action of the piece without going beyond to reveal too much!

The summary should also provide some orientation for the reader. Given the nature of the purpose of a review, it is important that students’ consider their intended audience in the writing of their review. Readers will most likely not have read the book in question and will require some orientation. This is often achieved through introductions to the main characters, themes, primary arguments etc. This will help the reader to gauge whether or not the book is of interest to them.

Once your student has summarized the work, it is time to ‘review’ in earnest. At this point, the student should begin to detail their own opinion of the book. To do this well they should:

i. Make It Personal

Often when teaching essay writing we will talk to our students about the importance of climbing up and down the ladder of abstraction. Just as it is helpful to explore large, more abstract concepts in an essay by bringing it down to Earth, in a book review, it is important that students can relate the characters, themes, ideas etc to their own lives.

Book reviews are meant to be subjective. They are opinion pieces, and opinions grow out of our experiences of life. Encourage students to link the work they are writing about to their own personal life within the body of the review. By making this personal connection to the work, students contextualize their opinions for the readers and help them to understand whether the book will be of interest to them or not in the process.

ii. Make It Universal

Just as it is important to climb down the ladder of abstraction to show how the work relates to individual life, it is important to climb upwards on the ladder too. Students should endeavor to show how the ideas explored in the book relate to the wider world. The may be in the form of the universality of the underlying themes in a work of fiction or, for example, the international implications for arguments expressed in a work of nonfiction.

iii. Support Opinions with Evidence

A book review is a subjective piece of writing by its very nature. However, just because it is subjective does not mean that opinions do not need to be justified. Make sure students understand how to back up their opinions with various forms of evidence, for example, quotations, statistics, and the use of primary and secondary sources.

EDIT AND REVISE YOUR BOOK REVIEW

As with any writing genre, encourage students to polish things up with review and revision at the end. Encourage them to proofread and check for accurate spelling throughout, with particular attention to the author’s name, character names, publisher etc. 

It is good practice too for students to double-check their use of evidence. Are statements supported? Are the statistics used correctly? Are the quotations from the text accurate? Mistakes such as these uncorrected can do great damage to the value of a book review as they can undermine the reader’s confidence in the writer’s judgement.

The discipline of writing book reviews offers students opportunities to develop their writing skills and exercise their critical faculties. Book reviews can be valuable standalone activities or serve as a part of a series of activities engaging with a central text. They can also serve as an effective springboard into later discussion work based on the ideas and issues explored in a particular book. Though the book review does not hold the sway it once did in the mind’s of the reading public, it still serves as an effective teaching tool in our classrooms today.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BOOK REVIEW GRAPHIC ORGANIZER (TEMPLATE)

101 DIGITAL & PRINT GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS FOR ALL CURRICULUM AREAS

Introduce your students to 21st-century learning with this GROWING BUNDLE OF 101 EDITABLE & PRINTABLE GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS. ✌ NO PREP REQUIRED!!! ✌ Go paperless, and let your students express their knowledge and creativity through the power of technology and collaboration inside and outside the classroom with ease.

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Book and Movie review writing examples (Student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of book reviews.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to both read the movie or book review in detail but also the teacher and student guides which highlight some of the key elements of writing a text review

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of book review writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with to gain a broader appreciation of this text type .

BOOK REVIEW VIDEO TUTORIALS

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The 5 Best Books For Learning Assembly Language

I’ve hand-picked you the top 5 books that will help you learn assembly even if you have never coded in assembly language before. This article will look at some of the best assembly language books available today.

So what even is Assembly language? It is a low-level programming language that allows you to control a computer’s hardware directly. Learning assembly language can also benefit you if you’re interested in developing embedded systems, allowing you greater control over their code.

Assembly language is used in many applications, including operating systems, device drivers, embedded systems, and game development. With all these advantages, it is clear that learning assembly language can open up many opportunities for aspiring programmers and developers.

by Mike McGrath

by Jeff Duntemann

by Jonathan Bartlett

by Stephen Smith

by Bruce Smith

Assembly x64 Programming In Easy Steps

The best illustrated book.

Author: Mike McGrath

Number of Pages: 186

Time to Read:   12 hours

Published:   September 8, 2021

Style of Writing: Practical

Ideal for:   Beginners

Why do we like this book?

The book has colorful illustrations, readable, and easy to follow, making it perfect for those starting with assembly language. You will also be completing exercises even if you haven’t done any programming before.

Is it Easy to Read?

Is the Book Comprehensive?

Is the Book Relevant?

What will you learn from this book?

You will learn the fundamentals of assembly language and how it works. In addition, the book will cover the basics of memory addressing, arithmetic operations, flow control, and more.  You will discover ways to perform basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The book also take you  through the step-by-step process of setting up your machine for developing in assembly. 

• Understanding Fundamentals
• Setting Up Your Machine
• Performing Arithmetic Operations
• Directing Flow
• Address Options
• Building Blocks
• Expanding Macros
• Floating Points
• Calling Windows

Why this book may not be right fit for you?

Even though it’s a great beginner book, it’s for Windows users only. You’ll be using Microsoft’s Macro Assembler software to follow the exercises. The book also doesn’t  cover the inner workings of assembly language in-depth.  If you are not a big fan of using Windows and need more comprehensive guide, then I recommend reading Learn to Program with Assembly . 

The book is applicable for Windows user only.

Assembly Language Step-by-Step

Learn assembly language in linux.

Author: Jeff Duntemann

Number of Pages: 656

Time to Read: 44 hours

Published:   October 5, 2009

Style of Writing: Hybrid

The author wrote this book with the notion that assembly language is the first programming language you’ve ever used. The book also covers the basic concepts in computing, such as hexadecimal and binary number bases. The book also covers the assembly language concepts comprehensively.

You will learn the assembly language basics, such as binary and hexadecimal number systems, Intel x86 computer architecture, and building computer programs under the Linux operating system.

You will also get exposed to x86 instruction set, memory addressing, macros, and using C-language libraries. You will learn assembly language using free and open-source software.

• x86 Architecture And Assembly concepts
• x86 Instruction Set
• Intel x86 Computer Architecture
• Memory Addressing
• C-language Code Libraries

The book is also published nine years old so the tools are not up-to-date to follow through the exercises. If you are a complete beginner, I recommend either  Learn to Program with Assembly  or Assembly x64 Programming in Easy Steps .

What are other people saying?

This book has great reviews in Amazon and Reddit.

Learn to Program With Assembly

Best book for first-time programmers​.

Author: Jonathan Bartlett

Number of Pages: 348

Time to Read: 24 hours

Published: November 6, 2021

Ideal for:   All levels

The book is a successor of the author’s previous book, Programming from the Ground Up, which was a reputable book on assembly language for 15 years. The book teaches 64-bit x86 assembly language in the Linux operating system. The book covers and explains the basic comprehensively for a complete beginner. The readers of Windows and Mac operating system can follow through the exercises using provided Docker image .

The book’s first part teaches basic instructions for the processor to write programs. You will also learn the operating system interactions, such as making calls to the kernel and working with the memory. Finally, the book discusses features of high-level programming languages, such as exception handling, object-oriented programming, and garbage collections.

• Assembly language basics
• Registers and simple arithmetic
• Comparison, branching, and looping
• Working with data in memory
• Signed number and bitwise operations
• Operating system basics
• Making system calls
• Calling functions from libraries
• Common and helpful assembly directives
• Dynamic memory allocation
• Basic high-level language features
• Object-oriented programming

If you are a first-time programmer, you will learn assembly language at a slower paced because the author focuses on building your fundamental knowledge first. The book has less illustrations than Assembly x64 Programming In Easy Steps . The book still covers the basic in details and is the most up-to-date book on learn assembly language for any skill-level.

Programming with 64-Bit ARM Assembly Language​

The best book to learn assembly in mobile.

Author: Stephen Smith

Number of Pages:   403

Time to Read: 26 hours

Published:   May 1, 2020

Style of Writing: Theory

Ideal for:   Advanced Learners

The book will teach you how to write assembly programming in an ARM processor in 64-bit mode. In addition, you’ll learn how to write programs for mobile devices such as Android and iPhone. You will also find it beneficial to get up-to-date instructions and detail explanations of assembly language.

You will learn how to write computer programs for single-board computers. In addition, you will learn the fundamentals of ARM architecture and hack machine code. The book provides plenty of exercises to practice your skills.

• Introduction to 64-bit ARM
• Controlling program flow
• Defining memory contents
• Functions and stack
• Linux operating system services
• Programming GPIO pins
• Interacting with C and Python
• Interfacing with Kotlin and Swift
• Multiple, divide, and, accumulate
• Floating point operations
• Neon coprocessor
• Optimizing code
• Reading and understanding code
• Hacking code

If you are a beginner to programming, many concepts will take more effort to grasp because of technical jargons and inadequate beginner friendly instructions. I recommend an easier/illustrated one like  Learn to Program with Assembly  if you do not have any programming experience.

Raspberry Pi Operating System Assembly Language

Learning assembly on raspberry pi.

Author: Bruce Smith

Number of Pages:   328

Time to Read: 22 hours

Published:   March 18, 2021

Ideal for:   Advanced learners

The book only requires a few tools to get started. All you need is Raspberry Pi Operating System installed on your Raspberry Pi. The book is up-to-date with lots of practice exercises. The book also explains the concepts in-depth.

The book teaches you to be proficient in the assembly language program. The book includes 28 programs to practice machine code. You will learn to program ARM machine code on your Raspberry Pi.

• Practical approach with example programs
• GCC assembler and linker
• ARM registers and arrangements
• Use of operating system calls
• Debugging with GDB
• Using libc function calls
• Programming the GPIO
• Floating point and Neon co-processors

If you have never coded before, this book might be overwhelming for you to start due to technical jargons. I recommend starting with  Assembly x64 Programming In Easy Steps  and Learn to Program with Assembly before reading this book.

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• School Assembly Ideas

Awesome School Assembly Ideas That Your Students Will Enjoy

School assemblies are like important school events where everyone—students, teachers, and staff—comes together. They help build a strong sense of belonging and unity among everyone. Assemblies are also great for boosting school spirit and making students feel proud of their accomplishments. It’s like a big gathering where important information is shared with everyone at the same time.

These assemblies can be really inspiring. Sometimes, special guests like speakers or performers who share their stories and motivate students to set goals and work hard. Assemblies aren’t just about learning from books; they can make learning fun and interesting too. You can celebrate different cultures and even have cool activities that can help you work together as a team.

One of the best things about assemblies is that they recognize and celebrate achievements. Whether it’s doing well in class, sports, or art, assemblies make sure everyone knows how awesome their hard work is.

Assemblies aren’t just about school stuff; they also talk about important life events. It’s a break from regular classwork, and it’s always fun. Assemblies also make sure you understand and appreciate different cultures and traditions. They’re like a big family gathering that brings everyone closer.

School assemblies serve as a cornerstone for fostering a sense of community, instilling school spirit, and delivering important messages to students. An engaging assembly not only captures the attention of students but also leaves a lasting impact. We put together a list of some of our top school assembly ideas designed to inspire and energize students, creating memorable experiences that resonate beyond the auditorium.

Interactive Science Shows:

Kick off the school year with a bang by bringing in dynamic science performers. Interactive science shows combine education and entertainment, featuring captivating experiments and mind-boggling demonstrations. This hands-on approach to learning not only sparks curiosity but also reinforces key scientific principles in a fun and engaging manner.

Motivational Speakers and Life Lessons:

Invite motivational speakers to share their life experiences, inspiring students to overcome challenges and strive for success. These speakers can cover a variety of topics, including resilience, goal-setting, and the importance of perseverance. Personal stories resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impression on students as they navigate their educational journeys.

Talent Showcase:

Unleash the creativity within your school community by organizing a talent showcase. Students can showcase their diverse talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, or even demonstrating unique skills. A talent showcase not only celebrates the richness of talent within the student body but also fosters a supportive and inclusive school culture.

Character Education Puppet Shows:

Introduce character education in a fun and engaging way through puppet shows. Professional puppeteers can craft entertaining stories that convey important values such as kindness, empathy, and teamwork. These shows provide a lighthearted approach to addressing important social and emotional learning concepts.

Cultural Celebration Assemblies:

Celebrate the diversity within your school community by organizing cultural celebration assemblies. Feature performances, displays, and presentations that showcase various cultures represented in the student body. This not only promotes cultural understanding but also fosters a sense of unity and appreciation for diversity.

Anti-Bullying Workshops:

Address important issues such as bullying through interactive workshops. Bring in experts who can engage students in discussions, activities, and role-playing scenarios that promote empathy and kindness. Anti-bullying assemblies create a safe space for dialogue and contribute to the development of a positive and inclusive school environment.

Environmental Awareness Programs:

Foster a sense of environmental responsibility by organizing assemblies focused on sustainability and conservation. Feature guest speakers, documentaries, or interactive presentations that highlight the importance of environmental stewardship. These assemblies can inspire students to take action and make eco-friendly choices in their daily lives.

Mock Career Fairs:

Bring the future into focus by organizing mock career fairs. Invite professionals from various fields to talk about their career paths, experiences, and the skills required for success. This interactive approach helps students explore potential career paths, motivating them to set academic and personal goals for their future.

Literary Showcases and Book Talks:

Ignite a passion for reading by organizing literary showcases and book talks. Invite authors, librarians, or literary enthusiasts to share their favorite books, discuss literary themes, and inspire a love for storytelling. These assemblies not only promote literacy but also create a vibrant literary culture within the school.

STEM Challenges and Innovations:

Encourage a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by organizing assemblies focused on STEM challenges and innovations. Feature interactive demonstrations, hands-on experiments, and guest speakers from the STEM field to inspire students and showcase the real-world applications of STEM knowledge.

Student-Driven Panel Discussions:

Empower students by organizing panel discussions where they can share their perspectives on relevant topics. This student-driven approach allows for open dialogue on issues such as leadership, teamwork, and community involvement. It fosters a sense of student voice and encourages active participation in shaping the school culture.

Mindfulness and Wellness Sessions:

Prioritize the well-being of students by incorporating mindfulness and wellness sessions into assemblies. Introduce relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga to help students manage stress and enhance their mental and emotional well-being. These sessions contribute to a positive school environment that values holistic health.

Virtual Reality (VR) Educational Experiences:

Explore the possibilities of technology by incorporating virtual reality into school assemblies. Virtual reality experiences can transport students to historical events, natural wonders, or even the depths of space, providing an immersive and educational journey. This cutting-edge approach captivates students’ attention and enhances their understanding of complex subjects.

Debate Competitions:

Stimulate critical thinking and communication skills by organizing debate competitions during assemblies. Students can participate in lively debates on current events, ethical dilemmas, or other thought-provoking topics. These competitions not only showcase students’ analytical abilities but also encourage respectful discourse within the school community.

Interactive History Lessons:

Bring history to life through interactive history lessons during assemblies. Utilize multimedia presentations, reenactments, or guest speakers to engage students in exploring historical events and figures. This immersive approach makes history more relatable and captivating for students.

Cybersecurity and Digital Literacy Workshops:

Address the importance of cybersecurity and digital literacy with engaging workshops during assemblies. Invite experts to share insights on online safety, responsible digital behavior, and the potential risks associated with technology. These workshops empower students to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

Financial Literacy Seminars:

Equip students with essential life skills by organizing financial literacy seminars. Invite financial experts to provide insights on budgeting, saving, investing, and making informed financial decisions. These seminars empower students with the knowledge needed for financial independence and success.

Student Awards and Recognition Ceremonies:

Celebrate academic achievements, leadership, and positive behavior through student awards and recognition ceremonies. Acknowledge the accomplishments of students in various areas, promoting a culture of excellence and motivation within the school community.

Outdoor Adventure Assemblies:

Infuse a sense of adventure by organizing outdoor assemblies that focus on team-building activities and challenges. These assemblies can include elements such as ropes courses, obstacle courses, or outdoor problem-solving games, promoting teamwork and resilience.

Interactive Math Challenges:

Make mathematics exciting and engaging by incorporating interactive math challenges into assemblies. Feature math games, puzzles, and demonstrations that showcase the fun and practical side of mathematical concepts. These challenges encourage a positive attitude toward math and stimulate mathematical thinking.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts:

School assemblies are an invaluable platform for inspiring and energizing students, shaping their perspectives, and fostering a positive school culture. By incorporating diverse and interactive ideas, educators can create memorable and impactful assemblies that go beyond routine presentations. Whether it’s promoting STEM education, addressing social issues, or celebrating diverse talents, the key is to tailor assemblies to the unique interests and needs of the student body. Through these creative and engaging school assembly ideas, educators can contribute to a vibrant and dynamic learning environment that resonates with students long after they leave the auditorium.

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Anchoring Script for Daily School Morning Assembly in English

Written by Shiksha Press

Updated on: October 5, 2023

School Morning Assembly Anchoring Script in English for Students

How to Conduct Morning Assembly in School in English | Anchoring Scripts for School Morning Assembly Presentations 

Table of Contents

Morning Assembly Anchoring Script In English: Welcome to the enriching world of school assemblies, the vital heartbeat of every educational institution. Anchoring these gatherings is not merely a responsibility; it’s a skill, a talent that blossoms with the right script and planning.

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Our Anchoring Speech for Morning Assembly & Anchoring Guide for School Assembly offers you a comprehensive walkthrough, starting from an energizing introduction to a resonating conclusion, while showcasing multiple segments that make your morning assembly engaging, informative, and inspiring. So, join us as we unravel the art of anchoring school morning assemblies.

Discover the art of successful anchoring with our comprehensive guide to planning and conducting morning school assemblies.

We are sharing a step-by-step approach, including an engaging Anchoring speech script and tips for integrating various educational and entertaining segments. Be it thought of the day, science trivia, or showcasing talents, we cover it all!

Team Building and Role Assignment for Morning Assembly

A well-organized morning assembly requires a committed team. Form a core group comprising students and teachers, with each member assigned a specific role such as schedule manager, speaker coordinator, or technical support. This division of responsibility ensures smooth execution and cultivates teamwork.

Sample and Format of Script for School During Morning Assembly:

School Morning Assembly Anchoring Script List .pdf

Anchoring Script for Introduction by the Anchor:

Anchor First: Good Morning Respected Principal, Teachers, and My Dear Friends. ds. I am [Your Name], your host for today’s morning assembly. As we gather in unity and spirit, we welcome the brand-new day with open hearts. Let’s step into the world of learning and discovery as we commence today’s assembly.”

Anchoring Script for Moment of Silence or Meditation:

Anchor Second: “Before we start our morning assembly, let’s pause for a moment. Close your eyes, calm your minds, take a deep breath, and meditate for a minute. In this silence, find your purpose for the day.”

Anchoring Script for Thought of the Day:

Anchor First: “To fuel our minds with inspiration, here is our ‘Thought of the Day for Morning Assembly.’ ‘Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.’ May this thought guide us through our endeavors.”

Or Thank you for that. Now, let’s kick off our daily assembly with an inspiring ‘Thought of the Day.’ Here’s [Student’s Name] [Class Name] or [House name] to share with us.

Prayer or Spiritual Song Script for Morning Assembly

Anchor Second:  “Prayer gives us hope and strength. So, let’s unite our voices in singing our school prayer, inviting divine blessings for the day ahead.”

Science Fact of the Day Anchoring Script

Anchor First:  “The world of science is full of wonders! Did you know that an octopus has three hearts? Yes, two pump blood to the gills, while the third pumps it to the rest of the body. Astonishing, isn’t it? Let’s keep our curiosity alive and continue learning fascinating facts like these.”

Or Thanks, [Student’s Name]. That’s a wonderful way to start our day. Now, let’s switch gears to something interesting. Let’s hear a cool ‘Science Fact’ from [Student’s Name] [Class Name] or [House name].

Anchoring Script for Talent Showcase in Morning Assembly

Anchor Second:  Now It’s time to celebrate the unique talents that bloom in our school. Let’s put our hands together for [Student’s Name], who will mesmerize us with their exceptional skills.”

Anchoring Script for News Update for School Assembly

Anchor First:  “Staying informed is the first step towards responsible citizenship. Now, let’s hear [Student’s Name] present the latest happenings from around the globe.”

Or That was amazing (For the last Event), [Student’s Name]! Thank you for sharing your talent with us. Next, it’s time to keep ourselves updated with what’s happening around us. Here’s [Student’s Name] [Class Name] or [House name] with the ‘News Update.’

Anchoring Script for Student Achievement Recognition:

Anchor Second:  “Success isn’t just about winning; it’s about effort. And when effort is continuously put in, it transforms into achievement. Today, we are thrilled to recognize [Student’s Name] [Class Name] or [House name] for their outstanding accomplishment in [specific area].”

Anchoring Script for Guest Speaker or Motivational Talk:

Anchor First:  “Today, we are privileged to have [Guest’s Name] with us. Let’s extend a warm welcome as they share their valuable insights and experiences to inspire us.”

Guest Speech or Motivational talk – After Speech, Thanks to Him/Her.

Anchoring Script for Special Assembly Announcements:

Anchor Second:  “Listen up, folks! We have some significant updates and reminders about upcoming events. Your attention, please.”

Anchoring Script for School Pledge

Anchor First:  “Let us now come together to declare our commitment and responsibility. Please stand straight, place your right hand over your heart, and repeat after me our school pledge.”

Remember, the specific words of your school pledge would follow here and will depend on your school’s specific pledge.

Anchoring Script for Cultural Performance:

Student First: “Culture is the soul of a society. Today, we have a special performance that highlights the rich cultural diversity that our school cherishes. Let’s give a huge round of applause to our performers.”

Anchoring Script for Health and Wellness Tips:

Student Second: “Health is our most precious wealth. Here’s a quick tip for all of us today – remember to stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is essential for our bodies to function well. Let’s make it a habit to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.”

Anchoring Script for Environmental Awareness Segment:

Student first: “It’s our duty to safeguard the planet for future generations. Did you know that a single tree can absorb up to 48 pounds of carbon dioxide each year? Let’s pledge to plant more trees and contribute to a greener Earth.”

Anchoring Script for Sports Updates or Highlights:

Student Second: “Sports instill teamwork and perseverance. Our school’s cricket team has made us proud by winning the inter-school championship. A hearty congratulations to the team and their coach!”

Birthdays or Special Occasions Anchoring Script

Student First: “We love to celebrate each other. Today, we have a special occasion. Let’s all wish [Student’s Name] a very Happy Birthday! May you be blessed with happiness and success.”

Book or Literature Review Anchoring Script

Student Second: “Books are our best friends. Today, [Student’s Name] will share a review of the book they recently read, [Book’s Title]. Listen closely, and you might find your next favourite read.”

Anchoring Script for Inspirational Story or Anecdote:

Student First: “A powerful story can inspire us to push our limits. Let’s tune in to an inspiring tale shared by [Student’s Name]. May this story motivate us to strive for greatness.”

Anchoring Script for Quiz or Interactive Activity:

Student Second: “It’s time to ignite our brains with a fun quiz and quiz on Current Affairs . Get ready to answer questions on various topics. Remember, it’s not about winning but about learning something new.”

Anchoring Script for Values or Life Skills Lesson:

“Values shape our character. Today’s life skill lesson is on ‘Empathy.’ Let’s remember to understand and share the feelings of others. In doing so, we make our world a kinder place.”

Anchoring Script for National Anthem:

“Let’s stand together, filled with respect and patriotism , as we pay homage to our nation with the National Anthem. Everyone, please stand in attention.”

Thanks, [Student’s Name]. It’s always good to stay together. Now, let’s stand tall and proud for our ‘National Anthem.’

[National Anthem Plays] 

Anchoring Script for Exam Prayer

Anchor: “As we face the challenge of our upcoming exams, let’s pause for a moment, unite in spirit, and seek divine guidance. Please join me in the Exam Prayer for wisdom, calm, and perseverance.”

Remember, the specific words of the prayer would follow here and will depend on your school’s specific prayer.

[your School Exam Prayer]

Anchoring Script for Morning Assembly Conclusion by the Anchor:

“As we wrap up today’s assembly, let’s carry the lessons and inspirations from today into the rest of our day. Remember, each day is a new opportunity. Thank you for your attentive participation. Have a wonderful day!”

Anchor: “As we are near to end the of today’s assembly so let’s carry forward the energy, inspiration, and lessons into our day. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to learn something new and it will help us to grow. Let’s make today a great day. Thank you, everyone, and have an enriching day ahead!”

These Speech scripts can be customized based on the specific details of each section, Program or segment. Remember to deliver your Speech with confidence and clarity.

Enhancing the Anchoring Experience for School Morning Assembly

Tips for effective delivery of anchoring speech in morning assembly.

Effective anchoring is marked by a clear voice, a confident demeanour, and smooth transitions between segments. Practice your script, make eye contact with the audience, and maintain a pleasant expression.

Handling Unexpected Situations Tips 

Technical glitches or sudden changes are not uncommon. Stay composed and think on your feet to keep the assembly moving.

Continuous Improvement and Feedback Incorporation

Post-assembly, seek feedback from peers and teachers. Constructive criticism can help improve future assemblies.

FAQs Morning Assembly Anchoring Script In English

What is the best anchoring script for a school morning assembly”:.

A good anchoring script for a school morning assembly is one that is well-written, engaging, informative, and tailored to the specific audience and occasion.

2. Why is an anchoring script important for Morning Assembly?

An anchoring script is important because it ensures the smooth and organized flow of the event.

3. What are the key elements of a good anchoring script?

A good anchoring script is one that is well-written, engaging, and informative. It should also be tailored to the specific audience and occasion.

We Hope You would like these Morning Assembly Anchoring Script In English for Daily School Assemblies. With these guided steps you can make a best scripts for different morning assembly school events. Soon we will add more Anchoring script ideas for students on latest Topics. so stay with us.

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• Best Script to Anchoring For Daily Morning School Assembly

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