Choosing Books

Independent reading time is most effective when students are reading books at their independent reading levels or books that are "just-right." It's also important that students are reading self-selected books of their choice. However, not all students have the ability to choose books that are appropriate. It's important that children are taught how to develop strategies for selecting appropriate books.

We started discussing how to choose a "Just-Right" book. We brainstormed a lot of reasons about why we choose books. The kids came up with things such as, books that have fairies on the cover, lots of pictures and books about science. Some of the kids also told us that they will look at the cover, open it up, read some of the words to see if the words make sense and if they are interested in reading more. WOW! Very impressive!

While I don't expect first graders to have a valid reason for every book they read, I do believe that it's important to introduce how to choose books appropriately. With explicit teaching in this area, it is my hope that students will be enabled to make better, engaging choices when they pick a book.

I have a tool that we have started learning and will include this information at Back to School Night. Hope to see you there!