As I shared in my August blog, I used to be the teacher who
thought modeling independent reading was sitting quietly looking at the book
expecting the students to learn how to silently read and hoping that they would
love it. Reflecting on that practice makes
me cringe. After reading Chapter 3, I realize that I can help develop a love of
reading in my students by REALLY sharing about my reading life. She says that
it usually takes some prodding before her students can answer her question,
“Why did I read all weekend?” She says
they give all kinds of answers, before saying, “Because you liked it.” That really makes me sad. It is so simplistic. Yet, how many of my former students know
that the main reason I read is for pleasure, not because I have to?
I am a lover of
reading. Mysteries, romance, cookbooks,
biographies, these genres entice me. I
also love books by Patricia Polacco. She
is an incredible children’s author. I
have decided to share my love of her books.
I have made a bulletin board with her picture and some facts about
her. I have read a couple of her books
to my class and discussed why I love them. I told them Ms. Polacco did not
learn to read until she was 14. They
were amazed. I plan to continue to
share about the books that I am reading and sharing how much I love to
read. I have even started letting my
Marvelous Monkey” of the week bring in his/her favorite book to share. They actually love it! I am hoping that the love for reading becomes
contagious.
What a gift you are giving to your students! Giving them permission to like reading and making that excitement available to everyone. I'm sure it is only a matter of time before they all start to share their favorite books and authors with you!
ReplyDeleteI love that you are reading Patricia Polacco books to your kindergarteners! My third graders love her books (especially Thunder Cake - my favorite!). I agree that if we share our love for reading, our students will become inspired to read for pleasure!
ReplyDeleteI have also added a student sharing their favorite book with the class when they are my Superhero of the week. This has led to much excitement in my room as I am sure it has yours. It is quite humorous, at times, as well as exciting to watch them mimic how I read to the class.
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