First of all, do not be discouraged by what you are seeing in Erica. This is something that actually happens quite often. Some students get so caught up in the number of words they are reading and lose sight of the true meaning of reading- comprehension! I think we need to discuss with Erica that it is okay to slow down. We need to let her know the importance of actually take the time to understand what she is reading. We should be sure to let her know that she can keep reading the same texts she is reading and still do this. However, she needs to take the focus away from speed and completion and turn it to comprehension and understanding. We need to let Erica know that while fluency is important, it is not everything. I believe that if you and I work together in a way that makes Erica feel confident about being a good reader, we will be able to get her going in the right direction.
As far as what you can do in the classroom to help other students, it might be a good idea to find some ways to strengthen comprehension while reading. There are a variety of ways to do this. One way that Weaver has found works well is the "Think Aloud" Strategy. In this strategy you would meet with a small group of students and model how a strong reader would read. Use an appropriate pace, and pause to think things out if you need to. Also, be sure to use the correct expression during the reading. Students will begin to see that you are not rushing through things, but that you are being mindful of what you are reading. It is the goal that they will see you are truly reading for meaning. Whether you use this strategy or one that you prefer, it is so crucial that you take the time to teach reading instruction in small groups. I believe students get so much more out of reading in this way. Lastly, remember to always stay positive with your students! Meet them where they are and celebrate even the smallest of successes.
You and your students should keep up the good work. Reading can be tricky sometimes, but the benefits of it for our students are immeasurable.
Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I would be happy to talk with you again.
Mary Kaish
Reading Specialist
Weaver,
C. (2002). Reading Process & Practice (3rd Edition), Portsmouth,
NH: Heinenmann.
I really enjoyed reading your response! Think-alouds really are a great tool for teachers to use. I also agree with your advice to stay positive. Readers can get discouraged easily, so it's our job as their teachers to build them up. Even if we are just celebrating the smallest of steps!
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