I couldn't agree more on your point regarding textbook reading. If an adult wouldn't want to read a textbook in their free time, why would a child? Your points are very similar to a lot of themes in "Readicide." As curriculum becomes more focused on standardized tests, less time is available for free reading during class. Teachers have got to find ways to challenge their students to read recreationally outside of class.
Allowing the students to be creative can certainly help them engage in the content. I think we can find different ways to engage students in different subjects. I remember just reading the textbooks and getting lost at times. I remember learning best from instructors that helped engage students with different, fun activities.
Making reading a focus for all teachers regardless of their content area as you point out, seems so important, after all it impacts all classes. I had a wonderful history teacher who encouraged non-textbook reading through various assignments and it was one of my most memorable classes in high school. I guess the difficulty here will be how to encourage teachers of all content areas to feel the same way...
Heather,
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more on your point regarding textbook reading. If an adult wouldn't want to read a textbook in their free time, why would a child? Your points are very similar to a lot of themes in "Readicide." As curriculum becomes more focused on standardized tests, less time is available for free reading during class. Teachers have got to find ways to challenge their students to read recreationally outside of class.
Allowing the students to be creative can certainly help them engage in the content. I think we can find different ways to engage students in different subjects. I remember just reading the textbooks and getting lost at times. I remember learning best from instructors that helped engage students with different, fun activities.
ReplyDeleteMaking reading a focus for all teachers regardless of their content area as you point out, seems so important, after all it impacts all classes. I had a wonderful history teacher who encouraged non-textbook reading through various assignments and it was one of my most memorable classes in high school. I guess the difficulty here will be how to encourage teachers of all content areas to feel the same way...
ReplyDelete