Innovation • Robots, Gadgets, and You
Free March Community Read-Alouds & Activities
Rally to Read closes in March with Innovation — inviting kids to ask what they could build, fix, or dream up next. These stories explore invention, problem-solving, and what it looks like when young people shape technology rather than just use it. This month includes two free author read-aloud videos for elementary classrooms, plus a printable activity packet with book lists, STEM-connected activities, and creative thinking exercises for Pre-K through 5th grade. All free from Reading Is Fundamental, just in time for National Reading Month.
March Read-Alouds: Coming March 1
This month’s two author read-alouds are coming soon.
The Lost Robot
Written and illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton
Grades: PK – K
Young readers are invited on an exciting adventure about curiosity, friendship, and the power of solving problems together. Tied to the theme of innovation, the story encourages young readers to think creatively, embrace new ideas, and see how imagination and determination can lead to extraordinary discoveries.
We are the Wright Brothers
Written by Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
Grades: K – 4th
Introduce young readers to the remarkable story of two brothers whose curiosity, perseverance, and creativity changed the course of history through flight. Highlighting the theme of innovation, this inspiring biography shows how bold ideas, problem-solving, and determination can help turn impossible dreams into reality.
Free Printable Classroom Resources: Coming March 1
March Activity Packet: Community
Robots, Gadgets and You. This month’s activity packet includes a recommended book list, STEM-connected classroom and at-home activities, invention and creative thinking exercises, puzzles and games, and featured book activity guides. Free to download and print for classroom and home use.
How to Use These Resources in Your Classroom
These free innovation read-aloud activities are a natural fit for STEM units, National Reading Month programming, and lessons on creative problem-solving, design thinking, and technology. Watch the videos to spark curiosity about how things are built and what students might invent, then use the activity packet for hands-on extension activities, discussion prompts, or classroom invention challenges. Both books connect literacy to science and engineering in ways that work across subject areas.
Free Reading Resources for Every Grade
Looking for more ways to support reading engagement? Our free Resources page has everything you need, printable bookmarks, a classroom poster, a reading log, reading certificates, and book review activities. Spanish-language versions are available for select resources. Educator and family webinars are also available to help you get the most out of Rally to Read all season long. All resources are designed for Pre-K, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, with activities that work across multiple reading levels.
Join us for our live stream Reading Inspires event in March.
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