What is one thing parents, teachers and community members can do to improve student learning? We can all encourage children to read, read, read!
Scores of studies support the importance of reading. Students who love books and engage in conversations about books score higher on standardized tests, develop critical thinking skills and have a better command of language. In fact, English Language Learners who read self-chosen books for just 10 minutes a day in their classrooms outperformed students placed in structured language classes without free reading time. Reading is essential to a child's academic success and developing a love of reading starts at a very early age.
It's actually quite simple to encourage a child's lifelong love of reading. Reading books to children opens the door to the world of books. Talking about the story, rereading favorite books and having a special time to read all contribute to developing a young child's love of books. As children learn to read, providing opportunities to read interesting books sets them firmly on the path of a lifelong love of reading. Students' reading skills increase as they pursue topics of interest through reading. Their knowledge, comprehension and vocabulary deepen as they discuss their reading with others. Basically, the more children read, the easier it becomes and the more they want to read.
Access to books is also key to developing lifelong readers. In communities, schools and classrooms with large libraries, students score higher on standardized tests for reading comprehension. They have the opportunity to pursue interests through choosing from a variety of reading materials. Students find favorite books, authors and series as they delve into the large selection of books available to them. They share the books they are reading and discuss new ideas they encounter. Clearly, well-stocked libraries and knowledgeable librarians also play an important role in encouraging students to read.
On March 3rd schools across the country will participate in Read Across America. The National Education Association and California Teachers Association sponsor this yearly event to celebrate the joy of reading with children. Educators everywhere join in hosting events centered on reading good books to and with children.
Research shows that the more children read, the better they read. And the more they read outside of school, the better they do in school.
In addition to celebrating reading on March 3, the Read Across America Committee, in conjunction with the California School Library Association, has developed a project called California Reads. Recognizing the importance of daily reading, California Reads offers teacher-approved quarterly book recommendations for four age groups. Teachers and parents will be able to access the book lists as they become available.
Reading opens the world to children and adults. It's fun, it's informative and it is also the foundation of learning. If we want students to be thoughtful, discerning adults we must provide them with a solid foundation. So, join educators across the country Monday, March 3 and yearlong, as our community gives children the gift of a lifelong love of reading!
Leslie Barkley is a first grade teacher at Grace Hudson Elementary School and the local chapter president of the California Teachers Association.