Independent reading time is one of the most powerful times in the classroom. Independent reading helps students become more fluent readers, strengthens comprehension skills, and helps build a comprehensive vocabulary. The struggle is making sure students are engaged and using this time wisely to help themselves become lifelong readers. Here are a few helpful tips!
It is important to create a reading area that students want to be in. My students and I have loved using the pillows from Oriental Trading. The pillows are so comfy that I can often be caught on the floor, leaning on a pillow as I teach. Another bonus is that the covers can be taken off and washed.
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Read to Self Phones are a great tool for students to use during independent reading time. The phones allow students to read quietly, while amplifying their voices and directing the sounds to their ears. Read to Self Phones allow students to practice phonemic awareness, focus on blending, and increases reading fluency. Students will become more confident readers with the use of read to self phones all while the classroom volume stays to a minimum.
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Take a little time to goal set with your reading groups. Review what is expected during read to self time, what you are looking for, and WHY it is so important. Fill out a Goal Thermometer Poster with each reading group and show students possible rewards to help build up motivation. If students are struggling with read to self, set the goal small so they feel success quickly. I like to keep my charts like the one above, with two spaces for each day of the week.
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Students thrive on little rewards. Rewards don’t have to be daily or even weekly. Take the time to pick out students being amazing independent readers and treat them to a little prize from the I Love Reading Assortment. When other students see a friend getting a reward, it will help motivate them to do their job as an independent reader. If you use the goal setting idea above, these rewards are great options for the group reward.
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