Taken From Atwell, 1987

1. TIME:

• Students need time to both look through books and also read independently. As the year goes on you can gradually increase the amount of independent reading time.

2. CHOICE:

• Students must have the opportunity to choose the books they want to read. As the year progresses the students will begin to choose books that appeal to them and also challenge them.

3. RESPONSE:

• It is important that we give our students the opportunity to respond to the literature they are reading. This can be done though response journals, class discussions, booktalks, or projects.

4. COMMUNITY:

• It is also important for the students to realize that they are part of a classroom community. Each student is both a learner and a teacher.

5. STRUCTURE:

• During Readers' Workshop it is necessary that a great deal of structure exists. Students need to understand the value of silent reading and the importance of sharing and listening during discussions.

Process Main

 

Best Practices: Pieces of the Puzzle Copyright 2003 Regina Public Schools and Saskatchewan Learning