How to Create a Positive Reading Atmosphere in Your Classroom
The essential skill of reading is at the center of education, communication, and mental development. Without a strong ability to read, it may be harder for children to communicate with others and think critically (Harappa Diaries). Reading and comprehension are vital skills for students no matter their age.
Students should be practicing reading independently or reading with a parent beginning at a young age for maximum brain development. Here are some benefits for students who practice reading at a young age according to Merrimack College:
It’s utterly clear that encouraging reading in primary and secondary classrooms is imperative, albeit challenging at times. Here are five practical steps you can take to create a positive reading environment in your classroom this year:
As an educator, you most likely have reading materials available for your students. As time passes and trends change, so do your students. Ask your students each year what genres, authors, or series they like to read. Having reading materials that students are personally interested in is the first step in creating excited young readers.
Read aloud to your students. If you’re able, read when your students are reading. Read on your break. Following your own advice will express that you truly believe reading is valuable and will encourage students to follow in your footsteps.
As much as possible, create time for reading during the school day. Whether you have five minutes or thirty minutes, some students might just need a small push to crack open that book and won’t do it without encouragement. This establishes a reading habit and can give students the chance to discover what genres they do and don’t enjoy.
Mobile Ed Productions offers several different programs that encourage reading and writing in your students. One of our most popular assemblies is Young Author’s Day. Our Young Author’s Day program encourages creative writing skills in students K-9. One of our classically-trained mime performers will visit your school for a unique presentation using the “art of silence”. For this interactive assembly program, students learn what it means to write a story and have the opportunity to write one themselves and see it performed live! Click here to view specific details about our Young Author’s Day assembly.
Create a space for reading that is separate from your learning area. Whether this reading area is in your classroom, a library, or made in their own homes, give your students the opportunity to find a space to read that is comfortable specifically for them. Perhaps offer your students a different type of seating than what they use at their desks or offer pillows that are mobile and adjustable so students can read how they are most comfortable.
Routines are proven to teach children how to be independent and complete tasks on their own. Whatever you decide works best for your students, make it into a routine. While giving yourself the freedom to still be flexible, establishing a routine for you and your students can better encourage their reading habits and make them feel safe in your classroom.
Our reading and writing-based assemblies include our very popular Young Author’s Day assembly, our history-based assembly called Lincoln and Reading, and our humorous and fun Mark Twain assembly. Easily book one of our incredibly unique reading and writing assemblies on our website or give us a call at 800-433-7459 today!
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