Embedded Files
Following are several suggested methods for selecting books to read for pleasure. Interests change as students mature, so being open to new books and different reading experiences is the key to discovering engaging and enjoyable material that ensures that students are 'reading for pleasure'.
Following are several suggested methods for selecting books to read for pleasure. Interests change as students mature, so being open to new books and different reading experiences is the key to discovering engaging and enjoyable material that ensures that students are 'reading for pleasure'.
Strategies to help students choose books
Strategies to help students choose books
Physical browsing - For readers who are unsure what they want
Physical browsing - For readers who are unsure what they want
The Resource Centre collection is constantly evolving with new books and displays showcasing what is on offer, which can be much less intimidating than searching for books via their spine label alone. Browsing strategies for readers who are unsure what they would like include looking at:
recently returned books (these are a good indication of what is popular)
new book displays (top of fiction cove)
featured book displays (white shelves near the entrance)
books that look new – up to date and in good condition.
series shelves - very popular with students who like the certainty of series they know, or the continuity of a reading experience.
graphic novels - can be read quickly or over several sessions.
fun fact books or special interest non-fiction
Physical browsing - For readers who know their reading preferences
Physical browsing - For readers who know their reading preferences
For readers who know their reading preferences, browsing strategies whilst in the Resource Centre space may include looking for:
favourite authors
authors you’ve heard of and are interested in reading
titles heard about from family, friends, and reviews
specific titles, authors or genres using the Oliver Library Management System 'Enquiry terminal' in the Resource Centre.
Virtual browsing - Using technology to select and access books
Virtual browsing - Using technology to select and access books
use the 'Enquiry terminal' in the Resource Centre to search for and locate specific books using the Oliver Library Management system.
Access Oliver anywhere at any time (at home or from a classroom) to find a book to access when convenient.
Preview audiobooks before borrowing (available from a variety of devices including smartphones).
Use Book Review sites to get a wider understanding of book trends and popularity or details about specific books
Peer recommendation - Asking friends or peers what they they have enjoyed reading
Peer recommendation - Asking friends or peers what they they have enjoyed reading
Peer recommendation becomes increasingly important to many students as they transition from seeking adult help with selecting reading material to being more independent.
Just as adults ask 'like-minded' friends to recommend books, students can use other students reading experiences in their book selection.
Students are encouraged to share their recommendations and views about books to others as this also reinforces their learning experience and literacy skills.
Book tasting - Student selection
Book tasting - Student selection
Look at the title and the cover – does it appeal?
Read the book jacket blurb – does it interest you? Give different genres a chance.
Read the first page or two.
Read information about the author on the jacket.
Look at print size for ease-of-reading.
Listen to friends, teachers, parents, and librarians’ suggestions.
Look for popular authors and series.
Use the catalogue to look up authors, titles, and subjects that interest you.
Ask for booklists and check displays.
Give a book a fair chance – read several pages or chapters.
Ask the teacher-librarian
Ask the teacher-librarian
The teacher-librarian is a specialist teacher with expertise in supporting reading for pleasure. Knowledge of the collection and understanding of the development stages of students means that they are able to help match students to engaging reading material through:
Discussion with the student about reading preferences and books previously enjoyed
Guidance on how to use Oliver and the 'Enquiry terminal'.
Specific questions to narrow down reading confidence and genre preferences
Suggestions of authors writing in particular genres
Suggestions of formats aligned with reading confidence (from graphic novels and easy reads through to large, challenging texts)
Note: the teacher-librarian will never be offended if you do not like a book that they have recommended. Every book a student does not like brings them closer to a book they will like. Do not persevere with a book that you do not enjoy as the point is reading for pleasure!
Talk to an adult that reads - Ask your English teacher, parent, or an adult who knows you.
Talk to an adult that reads - Ask your English teacher, parent, or an adult who knows you.
Those who know you best as individuals and as learners are in a good position to recommend books. Even if they do not have any suggestions that particularly interest you, the discussion helps to clarify what you are interested in reading.
Page updated
Report abuse