Lisa L. Smith  Why Not?  What Works?

Blog Post #3

From:  No More Independent Reading Without Support by Debbie Miller and Barbara Moss

Submitted by Lisa L. Smith (CDC)

I guess I thought independent reading was simply that, independent reading.  However, there is a vast difference in independent reading and teacher supported independent reading.  In the traditional method, there is no accountability, no motivation really, and very little guidance.  Some students may simply spin their wheels.  With the teacher’s guidance however, the student is expected to make goals, talk to the teacher, read aloud to the teacher, and make choices from different genres, and participate in conferences with the teacher.  It has been proven over and over again that independent reading, especially outside of school is connected with higher test scores. 

            In addition, the common core standards that have been adopted by many states calls for independent reading to be a requirement at all grade levels.  It also mandates that students should be reading a variety of genres of complex text.  Research shows that students must have time to read, access to a variety of texts, choice in what they read, teacher support, and the ability to engage with others about their reading in order to be highly successful and have growth as independent readers. 

            Though the level of the reader should determine how much support the reader will need, all readers of every level must have time to read texts of their choice on a regular basis.  They also need explicit instruction about what, why, and how readers read.  One way teachers encourage readers to read a variety of texts is using the genre wheel.  Students also need genre specific reading instruction.  When reading aloud to students, teachers should model and point out things about specific genres that they notice so that students can begin to notice them too.  Teachers are a vital element in reading instruction.  They must help the reader engage and explore the text while supporting the reader throughout the process. 

            It is extremely important that classroom libraries provide a variety of books and a variety of levels.  It is also crucial that teachers hold students accountable for their reading and engage with them about it.  Reading independently is linked to growth as a reader and an increase in text scores.  This is a win for both teachers and students.