How to Choose a Book . . . With a Twist!

Each year for ELA students are required to choose a book for independent reading.  Becoming a better reader is always a goal for our students, and the best way to do that is to read more!

By the time students reach 7th and 8th grade, they are well-versed in how to make the decision whether or not to choose a book to independently read.  Each year I ask the question, I get the canned responses:

• look the cover
• read the back 
• choose an author you like
• choose a series you like
• choose a genre you like

Students rattle off the list like prisoners reciting their numbers!  This year, students were asked to bump it up a notch and take responsibility for their own growth as readers:

Why do you think you might enjoy the book you chose?  

AND  

How will the book you chose make you a better reader?

Students' task today was to find a book that seemed not only interesting to read, but would grow their reading skills.  Our ideas about how to do this varied from class to class, but not by much.

Most students found books they feel will challenge them.  Next week, we start reading conferences in which we'll try out these books as catalysts for growth! 

Have a great weekend!