Structure, Schedule and Resources
Structure:
What is the goal of DEAR Time? The goal is to build reading stamina, foster a love of reading, create a calm and supportive classroom environment, and provide students with opportunities for reflection and connection.
What are essential elements of effective DEAR Time? The strongest outcomes occur when DEAR time includes: Student Choice, Appropriate Text Level, Teacher Accountability and Support.
How is Trottier's DEAR Time structured?
Throughout the year, each DEAR Time will have a provided plan for teachers to use. Options are available, but it's not necessary to customize DEAR Time - the provided plan will always offer a fresh format for the day.
1. Welcome, Attendance Questions & SEL Check-In (5-7 minutes)
2. Setting Expectations- The teacher briefly reviews DEAR Expectations:
Read the entire time.
Stay in one place.
Respect others' reading time.
Challenge yourself with an appropriate text.
3. Independent Reading Time (30-35 minutes)
4. Closure & Reflection (5-10 minutes): The closure should help students reflect on their reading, make connections, and share their thinking without creating excessive paperwork.
FAQ's
What do student's read? Student choice and appropriate text level are two of the three essential elements of a successful program, so students should choose an independent reading book before they arrive.
Students will be able to bring "dedicated" e-readers to DEAR Time (without web page connectivity); but otherwise, they should arrive with a physical book in hand. Students will not be able to read from their chromebooks/laptops/phones, etc.; this is to ensure that students are reading and using the time productively.
Students should not use this time to read textbooks or assigned readings from other classes.
Can students visit the library during DEAR Time? Students are required to arrive at DEAR Time with an independent reading book in hand.
The Library is open and available for students to select an independent reading book throughout the day, but DEAR Time should be protected from interruptions and distractions in order to be effective. Classroom reading books can be made available for students who arrive without their books.
Infrequently, the Library is closed, for a meeting or a large group; students should find another time to visit or they can fill out a "Request-a-Book" form.
What is the teacher's role?
Teachers will spend this time reading as well. Research suggests that reading conferences, book talks, goal-setting, and discussions help maximize the benefits of independent reading. The classroom environment and teacher guidance play a significant role in student growth. Teachers can choose their own approach, but engagement is the key.
