Read to Self Time

So I don't know if you are familiar with The Daily Five??? (If you have not heard of it, run out and buy it...NOW!)

I had heard such amazing things about this book and when it was time to do a project for grad school I decided on this book. It was such an amazing read. Seriously, the "sisters" have got it going on. :)

So there are 5 elements to the Daily Five, and right now I am using the read to self element. I was skeptical at first, but I am telling you it is wonderful! Basically how it works is you start by making sure each student has their own personal book box. I bought these cardboard ones at office depot (they were a dollar!) but time and first grade have not treated them well, and I want the plastic ones next year. 

I selected the books at first, but after ALOT of modeling they can select their own books now! So, after you have the book boxes you start by discussing what this time will look like, and what behaviors are appropriate during this time. Modeling is key here! It makes the world of difference. So, you start by letting them read for only 3 minutes!! I know it sounds short, but we came back after 1 minute. That's the other thing, if there are off task students come back and review the appropriate behaviors. Once everyone is doing amazing, then add a minute everyday! 

Guess what my kids are up to? We started in October.....

23 minutes!!!! I know, it is amazing! They read for that long all on their own! It is all about building stamina, if you take it slow you will have amazing results! (something I have to remind myself of quite a bit)

Ms. Thomas :)