"When students are actively reading and applying multiple reading strategies as they read, they are able to understand the text at a deeper level."
Great "Summer Reading" to Enhance ELA Class Next Year
Seven Strategies of Highly Effective Readers
As the summer season begins, we invite you to make the most of this time by preparing for the rewarding journey of teaching reading and writing in September. Here are 10 suggestions to guide your summer preparations:
Read widely: Immerse yourself in a variety of genres, from fiction to non-fiction, to expand your own reading experiences and discover new literature to share with your students.
Explore professional resources: Engage in professional reading to stay updated on the latest research, instructional strategies, and best practices in teaching reading and writing.
Reflect on the previous year: Take time to reflect on your teaching practices, student progress, and areas for growth. Consider what worked well and what could be improved, and use these insights to inform your plans for the upcoming year.
Create a classroom library: Curate a diverse collection of books that cater to various interests, reading levels, and genres to create an inviting and engaging classroom library for your students.
Attend professional development: Seek out professional development opportunities focused on literacy instruction to gain new insights, strategies, and resources that will enhance your teaching effectiveness.
Develop a writing routine: Establish a writing routine for yourself by dedicating regular time to engage in personal writing. This practice will help you empathize with your students and deepen your understanding of the writing process.
Plan engaging reading activities: Brainstorm ideas for interactive and engaging reading activities that promote comprehension, critical thinking, and vocabulary development. Consider incorporating book clubs, author studies, and literature circles into your lessons.
Create writing prompts: Design a collection of writing prompts that will inspire your students to express themselves creatively, think critically, and develop their writing skills.
Connect with colleagues: Collaborate with fellow educators to share ideas, discuss teaching strategies, and exchange resources related to reading and writing instruction.
Set personal goals: Reflect on your own professional growth and set specific goals for the upcoming year. Whether it's improving your instructional practices or expanding your knowledge of literacy pedagogy, having personal goals will guide your professional development.
By embracing these suggestions and dedicating time to prepare for teaching reading and writing, you will be equipped with a solid foundation to create engaging, meaningful, and transformative learning experiences for your students. Wishing you a summer filled with relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration as you embark on this exciting journey.