How do you get reluctant readers to read?
Someone wrote in asking how I get kids to read who don't want to. Excellent question. I use a variety of strategies. One of the most important is to have an extensive collection of reading materials in my classroom. An important part of that collection is the Captain Underpants series, by Dav Pilkey. No boy, and few girls will pass up these easy-to-read ridiculous books about two cut-ups named George and Harold.
Reading also becomes a social activity in my classroom (this year a 4-5 combination). I read great books aloud to the whole class during our read aloud time. The read along with books on tape during Silent Reading. I have a special collection of books for Partner Reading, which means reading with a friend.
I am also the "Silent Reading Nazi." During Silent Reading time, I insist that they stay at their seat and LOOK at their books.
Through one-on-one conferences (during silent reading once the class is trained) I learn whether or not they are understanding what they are reading. I try not to tell them, "Oh, this book is too hard for you." But help them decide a book is a little too confusing, then help them choose something more appropriate to their reading level. I have books ranging from 1st to 8th grade reading levels in my room.
I've built up a classroom library over the years, but in the five to ten years, I try to get most of my books from Friends of the Library bookstores or other second hand sources. This way I don't get too upset if my books go home and don't come back.
I have lots of other strategies. Ask me some more questions.
Reading also becomes a social activity in my classroom (this year a 4-5 combination). I read great books aloud to the whole class during our read aloud time. The read along with books on tape during Silent Reading. I have a special collection of books for Partner Reading, which means reading with a friend.
I am also the "Silent Reading Nazi." During Silent Reading time, I insist that they stay at their seat and LOOK at their books.
Through one-on-one conferences (during silent reading once the class is trained) I learn whether or not they are understanding what they are reading. I try not to tell them, "Oh, this book is too hard for you." But help them decide a book is a little too confusing, then help them choose something more appropriate to their reading level. I have books ranging from 1st to 8th grade reading levels in my room.
I've built up a classroom library over the years, but in the five to ten years, I try to get most of my books from Friends of the Library bookstores or other second hand sources. This way I don't get too upset if my books go home and don't come back.
I have lots of other strategies. Ask me some more questions.
posted by blogger mom @ 7:23 PM
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