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Dr. Palombo's
Math & Reading Class
Motivating Children to Read
With the appropriate support and activities, parents can help students
become engaged readers and discover a love for reading.
Dr. Linda Gambrell of the University of Maryland shares valuable tips
on motivating students to become engaged readers.
Key Principles of Engaged Reading:
- Engaged readers like to choose their own books.
When the
students told us about books they "most enjoyed" reading, more
than 80% spoke of books they had selected themselves.
Engaged readers like books and stories that are familiar. When
students in our study talked about their favorite books, they mentioned
they got interested because they had "read other books about the
character," "knew the author" or had "read other books
in the series." Students also frequently reported that friends had
told them about books that they enjoyed reading, but teachers and parents
also influenced reading choices.
Engaged readers interact with others about their reading. Social
interaction about books and stories appears to foster wide, frequent
reading. Across all grade levels in our study, students spoke
enthusiastically about interacting with others regarding the books and
stories they enjoyed.
For engaged readers, books are the best reward. In a study
conducted with first grade students, students were rewarded with books for
successfully meeting their reading goals. Eight months later, a follow-up
study revealed these students were more motivated and engaged in reading
activities than those who were not rewarded with books.
Excerpts taken from: Gambrell, Linda. - Motivating Students to Read. -
Scholastic Center for Literacy and Learning Power. New
York Scholastic Inc., 1999.
Courtesy of SCHOLASTIC, INC.
Remedial
Support Services Grades 4-6 |
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