Back to Basics: Independent Reading Matters

The research on the positive impact of instruction in the areas of fluency, decoding, phonemic awareness, vocabulary and comprehension is well established. The research on the positive impact of teacher-supported independent reading is equally well established. Yet, independent reading seems to be disappearing under pressure to devote more time to other components of literacy instruction. This practical session will focus on how to implement teacher-supported Independent Reading in your classroom. Hannah will address common concerns, such as: How do I teach lessons on engagement and motivation? How do I give children choice while also ensuring that they are reading books that they can decode? How do I know what to teach in a conference? How often do I confer? Regardless of your school’s approach to literacy, you will learn ways to reinvigorate independent reading so that all children can experience success.