Reading Motivation Matters [But Is Often Ignored]
The resurgence of the science of reading as a movement has brought forth some very important reminders. Some of those reminders are seen everywhere, like the importance of teaching phonics…
Are Book Levels Really So Bad?
As we get to know our new crop of students this school year, teachers gather all sorts of data, both hard and soft. It’s so important to get a feel…
Do Book Levels Have a Place in Classroom Libraries?
Here’s a question I get a lot–and it’s one that I’ve asked many times lately, too. With the wholesale cancellation of anything to do with book levels, including in assessment,…
Are Graphic Novels Any Good for Kids?
There’s no question that graphic novels are all the rage for kids. These days, it’s rare to see a child read anything but a graphic novel. Teachers often grapple with…
Tips for Engaged, Independent Readers [Part 4: Holding Kids Accountable]
If you’re familiar with Jennifer Serravallo’s hierarchy of reading goals for instruction, you know that engagement is at the very top, just below the most foundational goal of emergent reading….