Bill,
I'm finding the very same thing.?Choice is the key, as well as the freedom to
drop.? I'm using 20 minutes of my 50 minutes class and 20 minutes at home for
independent reading.? I've been logging in pages and book titles each day for
accountablility.? Although I have several students still working on their first
books, I also have quite a few on their 8th or 10th book since since September.
It's sort of funny; I've had several ask if they can read the same book
together so they can talk about it.? Who am I to say no to such a request?
I have asked them to write 2 letters and a book recommendation so far.
I'm also working doing the reading skills work on non-fiction or picture
books.? We've talked quite a bit about efferent and aestetic reading and are
currently trying to figure out how to best read texbooks.? The math textbook
discussions have been quite interesting.? My thinking is that if we can develop
the skills on non-fiction text, it will carry over to the fiction without
breaking into their enjoyment and focus.? Am I crazy? or at least on the right
track?
Karen Onyx
Carusi Middle School
-----Original Message-----
From: Bill IVEY <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Bcc: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Sun, 21 Oct 2007 3:04 pm
Subject: Re: [LIT] Reading Question
Hi!
I love this group - so many answers so quickly, and such strong answers! I
honestly don't think I have much to add, though I will say that I think
one of the most fundamental elements in building interest in reading is
the part about just letting them read what they want to. I often get,
"Wait, you mean I can just read (fill in the blank - often a Meg Cabot
title) and that's okay?" Also, the idea that they can drop the book if
they lose interest in it.
Although I think my kids do enjoy having group discussions of books,
several have told me that they are much happier reading on their own then
reading something I've picked out for them, or even something they've
picked out as a group book from a number of choices.
Oh, I did just think about "morning reading" - i.e. read-alouds. I think
that has been huge in my class, for generally building interest in
reading, for helping students learn from each other about how to think
about reading, and for just enjoying being together ("building community").
Take care,
Bill Ivey
Stoneleigh-Burnham School
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