Five ways to get kids to want to read and write

1. Free Voluntary Reading or Sustained Silent Reading

In order for students to motivate themselves to read, multiple studies have shown that they need access to high-interest reading material, ideally in a well-stocked classroom library.  In addition to access, students need choice in what they will read. By providing access and choice, students gain a sense of power, and once students feel empowered they are more motivated to read. Strict leveling of books that limit student choice by using predetermined guidelines based on reading level has been found to actually discourage reading motivation. Instead, students can be encouraged to choose “just right” books that are engaging and accessible. Though classroom book access is easier for students, the school library is obviously another source for books.

Of course, once students identify the books they want to read, there is the question of how best to support them reading in the classroom. Silent sustained reading, also sometimes called free voluntary reading, is designed to have students read for pleasure with minimal paperwork accountability, and there is substantial research showing that it enhances student motivation to read and increased academic gains.

Having students spend fifteen minutes at the beginning of each or most class periods, and having them read books of their choice for thirty minutes each evening, is one way to encourage reading for pleasure. Though some teachers feel that it is important for them to model reading a book during this classroom reading time, studies have suggested that, instead, students can benefit most by teachers circulating and providing individual feedback (having short conversations about the book, discussing the use of reading strategies, etc.)

via Five ways to get kids to want to read and write.