Ep. 198: The Literacy 50: Is There a Place for Sustained, Silent Reading in the School Day?
Jun 21, 2024
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Debating the value of sustained silent reading in schools, supporting reading volume with text sets and full-length texts, challenges in assessing reading comprehension skills, and testing comprehension within curriculum parameters are discussed in this episode.
16:35
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Quick takeaways
Sustained silent reading can optimize instructional time, but foundational skills should be prioritized for struggling readers.
Increasing reading volume can be achieved through text sets and full-length texts to enhance comprehension and knowledge.
Deep dives
Maximizing Instructional Time in Your Classroom with Sustained Silent Reading
Maximizing instructional time in the classroom can be achieved through effective use of sustained silent reading. While some students benefit from independent reading time, it may not be the most efficient use of instructional time for all. Research by the National Reading Panel suggests that instructional time may be better utilized in teaching struggling readers foundational skills like phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency before transitioning to independent reading for fluent readers to enhance vocabulary and knowledge.
Enhancing Students' Reading Volume through Text Sets and Full Length Texts
Increasing students' reading volume can be accomplished through text sets and full-length texts. Text sets offer a series of texts on familiar topics, aiding students in understanding vocabulary and background knowledge. Full-length texts provide in-depth exploration of topics, enhancing comprehension and knowledge. By carefully selecting materials that align with students' learning topics, educators can elevate students' reading experiences and promote deeper understanding.
Assessing Student Comprehension Effectively and Strategically
Assessing student comprehension poses challenges due to the dynamic nature of reading comprehension. Unlike concrete skills, comprehension depends on various factors including the reader, text, and task. To assess comprehension effectively, educators should focus on assessing knowledge taught, avoiding standards-based grading, and using discussion and writing as measures of comprehension. By staying within the curriculum topics and considering factors that may affect comprehension, such as fluency gaps, educators can strategically evaluate students' understanding and progress in reading.
Melissa & Lori discuss questions about reading comprehension from our new book, The Literacy 50: A Q&A Handbook for Teachers, and provide research-based answers and practical suggestions. We talk about the place of sustained silent reading in the school day and the best ways to assess a student's comprehension. We also discuss the concept of reading volume and how to support students in reading more.