Karen Davis' Blog Post 1 - Debbie Millers' Section 1 - Not This (Is There Enough Time?)

Not This

Finding the time for independent reading is the most important thing we can do for our students.  This could possibly be the only opportunity afforded to them for reading a large amount of books on their “just right” level.  Research verifies that reading independently on the right level is the most important part of a balanced literacy classroom.  However, students must have a teacher who conferences with them regularly to encourage engagement.  Reading is much more enjoyable when someone discusses the book with you.  Also, it is crucial for teachers to keep students on the best fit for independent reading.  When students are trying to read alone at a guided reading level they will become more frustrated and begin to pretend to read.  Students who read on a comfortable level will find that reading is relaxing, will gain confidence, and will realize reading is exciting.  I love that Debbie Miller encourages slowing down during this time to allow for relaxed reading, conferencing, and no rotations.  One way I find to add the minutes into the day is to include student practice into workshops.  Spelling practice is a station, much of Science and Social Studies can be incorporated into stations, exchanging independent reading bags/boxes can be accomplished in a station,  and journal writing makes a great independent station.  With these opportunities provided during stations and guided reading, there is more time to add an independent reading block when the room is quite and students can concentrate on reading silently.  Debbie Miller states that, “It’s well known that in order to become thoughtful, strategic, proficient readers, children need to read. A lot.”  Sounds like we need to find time to do it!