How many books did you read last year? One? Two? Ten?

Regardless of how many, this year, you're goal is to read...

40 books in roughly 40 weeks. Yes, 40! You can do it!

Before you decide I'm a completely crazy lady, read on!

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Challenge is to get you reading different types of books and to instill a love for reading. You will choose what you read, which helps you stay interested and focused. Research has proven that reading voraciously (that means wanting to read and read and read) from a variety of genres is the best way to improve ourselves as readers.

Remember that books come in many, many different forms!

For example, the novel, The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, is around 377 pages. The informational book, National Geographic Kids Everything Mythology: Begin Your Quest for Facts, Photos, and Fun Fit for Gods and Goddesses by Blake Hoena, is 64 pages. Both of these are books! One just happens to be a novel. Could you read the National Geographic book for this challenge? OF COURSE!

PROCESS

You will have time in class EACH DAY to read your books. You are also expected to read each night for at least 20 minutes (or the equivalent of 100-120 minutes a week). While I know that reading 40 books in 40 weeks is a big expectation, this goal can be reached easily if you are reading every day in class and at home.

HOW DOES THE CHALLENGE WORK?

You will choose a genre on your chart. Then you will choose a book that fits into that genre and read it. As we learn about specific elements/concepts in class, you will use your books to further practice those ideas.

WHICH BOOKS CAN I READ?

The books you read will be your choice. In class, I will help you pick "Good Fit Books." I want you to stretch yourself as a reader, but books should not be so hard for you that you struggle to understand or enjoy reading. Books may be from the school library, our classroom library, public library, or from home or friends. Also, books over 250 pages count as two.

DO I HAVE TO FILL OUT A READING LOG OR AN ACTIVE READING SHEET?

No! (Everyone hoots and hollers!) Research shows that completing these types of worksheets actually makes kids dislike reading. Plus, they don't really hold kids accountable for their reading. Instead, I want you to JUST READ! Each Friday, though, you will update me on your reading status. Updates inform me of your reading progress and show me your impressions of, connections to, and wonderings about your book.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I FINISH A BOOK?

Once the book is completely read, you will update your Reading List in your notebook. I (as well as the other Aztec teachers) expect you to always have the current book you are reading with you in class, electronic or paper copy (my preferred format).