5 Ways to Prepare Your Classroom For Independent Reading Success NOW
It may be almost summertime, but I want you to think about next year for just a second. I’m talking light prep… and here’s why.
The beginning of the year (for me at least) is always an administrative nightmare. I’m labeling all the things, arranging and rearranging desks, making fifty thousand copies… you know the drill. My brain has very little space to coordinate a new routine or get in the weeds on anything. I’m kind of just in survival and relationship-building mode.
The problem is that by the time I’m out of that mode, my classes have fallen into basic routines and introducing something new feels like too much. So, I propose you do a little planning now to ensure that independent reading starts strong in your classroom. Most of the problems related to independent reading systems are related to a wishy washy routine that wasn’t clearly established at the beginning of a year/quarter/semester.
Here’s your short checklist:
Think about the kinds of students you’ll have in your classes and plan for them. While you won’t know exactly which students will be in your classroom next year, you may have a general idea of the kinds of readers you’ll be working with. You may even be able to use your current students as a reference. Brainstorm ideas of topics, genres, and various reading levels that work for your kiddos. For example, I know a few things about my students:
Most read below grade level
Most speak English as a second language
Many have limited exposure to reading at home/ negative associations with reading
Based on that information, I’m curating my library with highly-engaging, short novels and plenty of graphic novels to hook students and build their confidence with reading.
Start a book wishlist on Amazon or FirstBook using recommendations from colleagues, friends, librarians, or social media. Check your library for books that are worn out and may need to be retired or replaced. Poll your current students and make a list of their favorite books this year.
Once you’ve got your wishlist, you can keep your eyes open at Goodwill or used bookstores for novels you want. You can also scope out thrift shops for fun classroom library furniture. Your classroom library does not have to be fancy or expensive.
Set up a Goodreads account and get the app on your phone. Make a “want to read” list and track titles you’ve already read. Immerse yourself in the middle grade and young adult book world so you’re prepared to help your students to do the same! (And if you’re thinking, I have ZERO time to read, I hear ya! Grab my Book Talk Guide bundles. I read so you don’t have to).
Figure out an accountability system you want to use for students next year. Assess what worked and what didn’t if you had something in place this year. I will always loudly advocate for page goals because they’re awesome. They are beyond simple to manage, kids like them, they maintain reading momentum, they don’t kill the love of reading (I could go on and on)... see how I implement them here.
Get light preppin’!
XO,
Kara & Riley
