Pick a Parrtner

" Partnered ,or paired, reading is a terrific way for students to read independently and grow as readers. " (ROUTMAN 91)  In my classroom, we use both approaches and I find success each year!!  My kids LOVE to read and can't wait to get in the classroom to choose a book basket for their table for the day! They immediately take a book out and start reading. They are allowed to make connections and share with their table mates, as well as myself. I have seen children start the year out hating to read but after being exposed on a daily basis to books of their choice, the love for reading blossoms. This helps them to grow as readers throughout the entire year. They also are allowed to sit on the floor, or even lay on the floor, to partner read. It is amazing at how well six year old children handle this. They have an audience in their partner and with that being said, they begin to use "voice" and not read so much like a ROBOT. ( seriously, that will put anyone to sleep..... LOL) It has gotten to the point that my children are making connections and are wanting to write about them in their writing journals as well.
     I listen to my children so much during this time or as Routman says, " I depend on partner reading as an easy way I can manage guided reading groups and still accomplish important reading work (91). I love the partner reading guidelines and plan on making a smaller version of this for my classroom. These children can use this to help themselves and one another.
     This book has been easy to read and is full of such useful information that is easy to implement!!