There are some mistakes we’ve probably all been guilty of making when it comes to independent reading time. As teachers, we often feel there isn’t enough time to do everything. This can lead to us cutting some corners with instruction, even though we have the best intentions. So what are these mistakes and how can we fix them?
Common Mistakes During Independent Reading Time
1. Not Providing Enough Time
Our days are full of so many things we have to do, in addition to what we know we should be doing. It can feel challenging to fit it all in. Independent reading tends to be one aspect that gets cut from our day when we feel short on time. But the truth is we should provide students time for independent reading everyday. If you feel it isn’t a valuable part of your day, then maybe you’re not making it as effective as it could be. If that’s the case, you’ll want to read these tips for making independent reading more beneficial.
2. Not Monitoring Students
The reality is it can be tempting to check your email or work on another task as students read quietly. But hold yourself accountable to make it an effective use of your time! When students realize you’re not paying attention to them and there is no accountability, they will not be actively engaged in reading. Teachers should be working with small groups or conferring with students. View the independent reading expectations to find out what else you should be doing during that time to make it more beneficial.
3. Not Providing a Purpose for Reading
If students do not know what is expected, they will not be as productive. They need to know their purpose for reading. It could be to practice the focus reading skill from the minilesson or just to read for fun. They may also be practicing how to actively monitor their comprehension as they’re reading with the help of these Readers Notebook pages.
View more specific ideas for independent reading activities for student accountability. No matter what the purpose for reading, students need to know it. Doing so will help them be more productive with their time.
4. Assigning Too Much Work
If students are assigned too much writing, they will have limited time to actually read. Which isn’t that the entire point of independent reading time? There is value to establishing a purpose for reading and holding students accountable, but make sure they still have ample time to read during this time.
5. Limiting Students’ Choices
One purpose of independent reading time is for students to learn about themselves as readers. They can discover their favorite genres, authors, series, etc. But they are unable to do so if they are always told what book to read. Over time, they may become reluctant readers because reading feels like a task rather than an activity to do for pleasure.
Reading surveys are a perfect way to incorporate student choice into book selections. Teachers can recommend books based on students’ interests.
Next Steps for Independent Reading Time
Are you guilty of making some of these mistakes? Don’t worry – we have all made at least one of them! The more important thing is how are you going to adapt your reading workshop to make independent reading time more beneficial and productive? Take time to honestly reflect on what you’re already doing well and which aspect you can improve.
Want to Learn More?
Check out the other blog posts in the independent reading series!
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