I believe that one of the biggest contributing factor in developing good readers (in terms of fluency, critical thinking, etc.) is that students have enough time to read. While I see both of my Language Arts classes for several blocks each week, I want them to read outside of class. They have a library time each week and they seem to spend most of that time trying to figure out how to get out of the library.
Our librarian, beginning to get frustrated with them, searched for an idea to make them want to read. No, we didn't bribe them with gifts, cash, or extra recess! We came up with the "Passport to Reading". We gave them a goal and we gave them choices. We came up with the required genres that we would like them to read (including a free choice or two), they will choose the order and they can read the stories that interest them.
After they read their selected novels, I will have them fill out a "book talk" sheet with basic information including what they liked and/or didn't like about the book and if they would recommend to another student. To meet curriculum requirements, they will then present a short live "book talk" to the class. After completing this requirement, they will get their passports stamped. Each passport entry (both their summary sheet and their live book talk) will earn them points for class. They'll have the rest of the school year to work on their passports and if they read above and beyond their goals, they can earn chances for extra prizes at the end of the year.
They seem really excited about this new activity. I hope we can keep that great spirit going for a few more months!!
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