Teachers know that establishing a robust independent reading program takes more than giving kids a little quiet time after lunch. But how do they set up a program that will maximize their students' gains? Teachers have to know their students' reading levels inside and out, help them find just-right books, and continue to guide them during…

Girls outscore boys in reading proficiency levels; the gender gap is startling and concerning. The myth that boys won't read or that it's not "cool" for boys to love reading plays a big part in how these low levels come to be. Low expectations from teachers, and an assumption that boys prefer physical activity, mean that boys often don't find…

Suggests reading activities involving prose, poetry, fiction, and dramatic reading with expression for sixth-grade students who read at and above grade level. (RH)

The Pause, Prompt, and Praise method of tutor training has been used successfully to train older children and parents to provide remedial reading instruction. Tips for putting together a cross-age tutoring program are given. (MT)

These individual and group activities are designed to help students learn to analyze, evaluate, and remember stories they've read. (SJL)

Describes a powerful combination of technology and teaching in Orange County, Florida, that has raised the reading scores of struggling students by as much as two grade levels each year. The project features an interactive software system and a literacy workshop model. It strives to help students overcome two common problems: lack of reading…

Three teachers discuss using picture books to cure reading problems, boost sagging self-concepts, and tutor handicapped children. Techniques for using books are described, as are follow-up activities. Examples of specific books and their uses with hearing and visually impaired children are given. (MT)

A recent study of reading rates of first grade students in Israel and America indicates that increased reading speed may improve comprehension and oral reading. Based on this finding, activities to help students read faster (and better) are suggested. (JL)

The reasons some children struggle with reading are as varied as the children themselves. From trouble decoding words to problems retaining information, reading difficulties are complex. All kids, says the International Reading Association, "have a right to instruction designed with their specific needs in mind." The question is how to identify…

Activities which pique student interest and desire to learn at Seely Place Elementary School are described. Community participation, teacher developed materials, an English as a Second Language program, and after school activities are central to the school's educational programs and success. (JL)

Reading Recovery is a highly structured, early-intervention program for children with reading difficulties. It targets first graders with the lowest reading and writing scores. This article describes Reading Recovery, discusses teacher training, and notes important program aspects (assessment must drive instruction; teachers must choose books…