WONDERFUL WAYS TO ENGLISH READING
(Written for a Ms. Jovy Estacio)
It pains me to see young learners reaching intermediate
levels but still scramble to read English texts despite years of school
exposure. Reading levels vary but it usually is expected that upon reaching the
4th grade, pupils must show certain proficiency in reading, preparing
them for a more advanced levels in the higher grades.
In most public schools, the main issue is the huge number
of pupils per classroom that sometimes can be seen as a not-so-ideal setup.
Compared to some private schools, a big discrepancy in number per class could
actually spell the difference between reading success and failure. The bigger
the number means the bigger responsibility for teachers to create the same
impact on the reading capabilities as compared to those who have a lesser
number of pupils.
I have been teaching English reading for quite a while now
and since pupils’ levels in reading differ from person to person, there are
certain common points to consider when trying to improve the reading skills of
learners all across the public elementary levels. I have identified some effective strategies
in improving the reading skills of my learners that in no way tax me in my work.
Here are a few points that I use everyday to help my pupils
progress in their reading levels. These are not extensive points but rather
some helpful tips in order to put reading as a fun way of life rather than some
strenuous works that learners may have to endure.
1.
TEACHER
AS A READING ROLE MODEL. There’s a quote that says, “How can you give
something you don’t have?” For the learners to love reading, we must show them
that we, ourselves, do love reading. A few minutes of personal reading English
literature inside the classroom could be enough to establish the point. Pupils
tend to copy the ways of their teachers particularly when establishing
themselves as role models.
2.
INCORPORATE LITERARY CHARACTERS DURING
INSTRUCTIONS. Not only that we show
how we love reading but also we must, as teachers, tell our learners how much
we love reading. By including literary
characters like Zeus, Poseidon and Hades
of Greek mythology, J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron
Weasley or Rick Riordan’s Percy
Jackson, Anabeth Chase and Grover in our daily instructions, we open a new
world of wonders for our learners to imagine. Tell them stories of heroism, of
successes over trials and even of tragedies. Some popular children’s literature
like Exupery’s Little Prince or Trina Paulus Hope For the Flowers could
double their interest to reading.
3.
MAKE
SOME CLEAN AND FUNNY READING MATERIALS READILY AVAILABLE. In the old days,
comics were considered as evil materials, but today is hardly the same. A few
funny comic books for children inside the classroom could make wonders out of
learners’ reading interests. By the way, to teach children to love reading is
tantamount to having them enjoy the process. Also include some collection of
clean jokes and informative magazines for your learners to read during break
time. Warning: Always check the contents first and make sure to be vigilant when
it comes to content censorship.
4.
ENCOURAGE
SHARED AND SUPPORT READING. It takes
two to tango. The same is true when it comes to developing reading in the
classroom. A teacher may utilize those pupils with advanced level to share and
encourage those who are in need of help. Peer to peer reading rapport could
make wonders particularly for those who are working with their classmate-friend.
They work with less pressure. But be wary of possible overbearing when you made
some pairing issues. Make sure to match the pairs properly.
5.
TIME
IS OF ESSENCE BUT MANAGE IT WISELY. For some, giving lengthy reading
moments could improve reading skills dramatically. It is not. Short,
interesting and funny –sometimes silly- reading moments are far better than
long and boring reading times. A few minutes a day for reading inspiring
stories is better than hours of reading uninteresting piece. It is good to
schedule short moments for reading across the day and be observant with the
time. Have your readers stop when it’s time to stop so they will feel wanting
and look forward to the next reading time.
6.
STACK
UP YOUR SHELVES. Readers have variety of interest and it is but fitting to
pile up reading materials of different topics. From Science to History and from
drama to melodrama. Let them explore the materials and never trade curiosity
for orderliness. Allow them to survey the materials, open each books and read
anything they want without limits during reading time. Let the rearranging and cleaning after the
day’s work. It is also the time to teach them proper discipline.
We all at one point may have struggled to read but since
learning how to love reading, I was so keen on passing the same love to my
pupils. The real point is, no matter how we try, improving reading skills is an
arduous process when negotiating it with some erroneous techniques. The love of
reading can be easily developed using the right strategies. Always remember
that a happy reader is a good reader.
