So, how is it possible for teachers to manage and “control” the class if every student is reading what he or she wants to read? EASY. Based on the interests and reading levels of the students, devise THEMES or CONCEPTS for the year. The ones I have used are “Friendships,” “Struggles and Perseverance,” “Heroes,” “Destiny,” and “Other Worlds.”
Each student will select from a large quantity of books that fit well with the theme. Do not forget to ask your media specialist and other teachers for possible titles.
Each student can discuss his or her book in relation to the CONCEPT QUESTIONS. Below is an example. When students start to add their own questions to the list, they are clearly HOOKED!
Concept Questions Regarding Relationships & Community
