Independent Reading

Think about it . . . .

Students must read to be readers.


Students in my class will be required to read a minimum of 40 books in 7 different genres. While that may seem like a lot for some students, I already know many students will surpass this goal.


The objective of this goal if to expose students to a variety of books and genres so that they can explore books they might not ordinarily read and develop an understanding of the literary elements, text features, and text structures of most books. (Miller, Donalyn, The Book Whisperer, Jossey-Bass, San Francisco, CA 2009).


The requirement is simple. Half of the books will be self selected from a variety of genres and the rest of the books may be whatever your student loves to read. If your child is not yet reading chapter books, that transition will be encouraged and developed. 


It really boils down to 10 books per quarter. That is just a little over one book per week. If your child is reading a book with over 300 pages, that book may count as two books. Additionally, if your child is reading picture books, a book or two per night is recommended.


Here is the deal. Time for reading will be given in school during Reader's Workshop, but students must also read at least 20 minutes every evening at home.


Here are the genres:


Realistic Fiction (4)

Historical Fiction (3)

Fantasy/Science Fiction (2)

Biography or Autobiography (2)

Informational (5)

Poetry (2)

Mystery (2)

Student Choice - The remaining books are up to the student.


Your child will also take Accelerated Reading tests for books read. This helps monitor if your child is reading just-right books.


The independent reading requirement includes AR points, progress toward the 40 Book Requirement, and written responses to reading.


Happy Reading!!