Dear Parents,
Becoming a fluent reader means reading a lot both at home and at school. Sometimes though, students aren’t reading as much as we think. Even though students are often given time and encouragement to read independently, they may be “faking it”. Frequently, they pretend to read because the book they are using is not “just right”. “Just Right” books are not so challenging that the students are solely occupied with figuring out the words, but not so easy that they are unlikely to learn anything new.
You can tell if your child has chosen a “just right” book by listening to your child read a page or two. Here’s what to watch for:
· The reading should be fairly smooth
· Your child will have trouble with no more than three words on the first two pages
· Your child should be able to tell you what he or she read
· Your child should not appear bored
Children’s Favorite Picks:
To find a current list of favorite books chosen by both teachers and students, go to www.readingonline.org/reviews/ or www. Cbcbooks.org. the latter site also provides parent tips and suggested reading activities.
Buying books for your child to read is not like buying clothes. Parents often purchase items that their children will “grow into”. When choosing books for at-home reading, select ones that your child can read now. Children need the enjoyment and satisfaction that come from being able to read “just right” books fluently and independently. They, of course, benefit from hearing more challenging texts read aloud.
I PICK Good- Books
This year we will be teaching our children how to pick their own books by using “I PICK”.
I -chose a book
Purpose – Why do I want to read it?
Interest – Does it interest me?
Comprehend- do I understand what I am reading?
Know- I know most of the words