Rachel, I read mainly animal books with my group of boys. Because of time, we did not get a chance to explore many different genres, but I would like to if we continue this activity. On one meeting I let the boys watch/listen to a Tumblebook on line, which is a semi animated book that is read aloud, sometimes by the author. Most of the boys really liked that too, they just said the story should have been longer.
Your presentation was amazing. If I had boys that could read in my classroom, I would love to start a boys' reading club. I think the whole idea of trying to get boys excited about reading is... more
You have NO boys who can read, at all, in your classroom? I'm lost. And if that's really the case, it seems you need a boys club even more desperately than our 3 presenters. Lots of ways to read when ... more
I guess, by that definition of reading. Meaning the ability to listen and understand text, read/recognize environmental print, then YES all of my students can read in some way shape or form. I guess... more
I had never used TarHeel Reader Books until recently and my students with reading difficulties love it. One student in particular who is reading at a mid-year 1st grade level (I teach 4th) loves to... more
In my group I had second grade, so I chose the books for them. I based that descision on research evidence that boys at this age still view reading as fun and enjoyable.
I love how all of you responded in unique ways to your students' interests but kept the same basic framework. Another thing that boys like according to research (and my experience sure confirms this) ... more
Dr. Koppenhaver, I explored the websites you have linked. The Alice story seemed interesting, is that supposed to be like an on going story as it happens?? I also wonder about what effect is... more
It was only a matter of time that children would follow the examples of parents and other adults they see reading using the newest technology. After all, kids often seem to easily dive into using the ... more
My boys love the historical genre to where they can relate themselves to the event taking place in the book. They will always ask after reading a certain part of the book if they can go online or... more
Anytime that the students say that a book should be longer is a great thing. If that ever happens again, you should give them time to write an alternative ending. I think that would be a wonderful... more
Great idea Rachel. I love when my kids are excited about the stories we read in class. When they ask to re-read a book- its the best! I think they would really enjoy writing their own ending.