Creating Lifelong Readers Through Independent Reading

Book excerpt: In a time when reading instruction is being marginalized and replaced with scripted reading programs, Creating Lifelong Readers Through Independent Reading gives concrete suggestions for creating independent reading programs that make a difference. In a hands-on, approachable style, authors Barbara Moss and Terrell Young show you how to effectively reestablish independent reading as a central focus in your K-6 classroom. A thorough, research-based discussion of the benefits of independent reading is combined with the following practical tools to help you fit it into a jam-packed classroom schedule: Tips for creating a sustainable, effective classroom library and maximizing the school library resources Helpful guidelines for teaching students to self-select appropriate reading materials Numerous suggestions for building effective independent reading time into your daily schedule-even during content area instruction Lesson ideas for incorporating strategy instruction into independent reading time An extensive literature list, graphic organizers for the classroom, and reproducible handouts for parents Plus, insightful interviews with literacy leaders Richard Allington, Linda Gambrell, Tony Stead, Sharon Taberski, and Myra Zarnowski tie together key points about the importance of independent reading. Book jacket.