A Few Final Thoughts...

As you get ready to go back to your classrooms, I hope you are armed with new strategies from this workshop to help students love literature. It is clear from the results of the survey we conducted from the first iteration of this workshop that a great number of participants already made time for read aloud and silent reading on a regular basis. I was thrilled to discover that those who previously did not make read aloud and silent reading a part of their daily routines plan to do so on a daily basis--not just weekly or occasionally. There is nothing more valuable to young readers than being read to on a daily basis by someone who loves books and values reading.

Many of our participants had not tried Student Read Aloud but reported that they now plan to make this a part of their weekly schedules. Similarly, those who did not discuss books on a regular basis now intend to make discussions following books a weekly occurrence. Whenever possible, I encourage you to make discussions, however brief, a part of each read aloud time. Even one question as simple as "tell me about your favorite part of this book" will help students make connections and promote appreciation of books shared.

Teacher modeling of reading and time for mini-conferences during silent reading are two strategies that many of you plan to incorporate into your daily schedules for the first time. I have no doubt you will find relaxation in the few minutes taken to read independently along side your students as well as appreciation for the one-on-one time spent having students read to you.

The majority of participants in the first course said that they intend to take time for reading at home on a daily basis. Though we all know that daily life is hectic, do your best to keep this resolution. Do it for yourself to enjoy the never-ending supply of wonderful books that can be shared for pleasure. Since so many of you already encourage your students to become readers for a lifetime, reading at home for pleasure will allow more opportunities to encourage lifetime reading from the heart.