The 30 minutes I have set aside and protected each day for independent reading in my classroom is my favorite part of the day and at the same time the most frustrating part of my day as a teacher. It makes me happy to hear the sound (or lack thereof) of a classroom full of 2nd graders "reading" quietly. However, I know there is a very broad range of reading abilities in my class. I know for every student who is truly reading there is at least one who is not, even though they look like they are. I know that some of my students are becoming better readers by just being given more time to do it, but the majority don't have the skills necessary to be successful independent readers. I know it is my responsibility to teach them how to become better readers, but I'm not sure how to go about doing that in the time that I'm given. Time, time, time. Every teacher's wish is that there was more time in the day, and this book suggests that we may not be using our time in the best ways.
"No More Independent Reading Without Support" by Debbie Miller, begins by pointing out that to be an effective teacher of reading you have to find the time. Independent reading can't be the kids reading while the teacher takes attendance and lunch count. It can't be rotations, activities, or worksheets. "For children to develop the habits and identity of thoughtful, strategic, proficient readers, they need to practice and, to make their practice productive, they need the tools that we can provide through instruction." Instruction during independent reading? For the past 5 years I have provided instruction in the form of guided reading to first graders. That, I can do! Reading conferences? Yes, I can do that, too. But the other instructional practices suggested in this section of the book I will need help with ("as students practice, the teacher monitors students' reading, through talk and writing, so that students get feedback that helps them get better). It all sounds good and makes sense, and I welcome a challenge and the opportunity to grow as an educator. If it means my students will be more successful, sign me up! As they say at Home Depot, "Let's do this!"
Sally, if you continue to read the Miller book, you will find some very useful information to help with your independent reading time. I am so glad to hear your passion for helping your students. Maybe we can map out a plan.
ReplyDeleteHi Sally,
ReplyDeleteI love your positive attitude and appreciate very much your willingness to "do this" and to learn and apply new strategies and structures to increase your students' success as readers. We are kindred spirits in this! Thanks, Dawn