Independent Silent Reading – Why is it important?
By MARISSA DESPINS Updated April 08, 2024
Today we talk all about Independent Silent Reading. Also, I share why it is so important, and why it needs to be included in your daily classroom routines.
To see all of the ready-to-teach reading resources available in my TPT shop, click on the image or button below!
What is the correlation between reading levels and time spent reading?
There is a strong correlation between the amount of time that kids spend reading and their reading levels. The more kids read, the better they are at it. Studies consistently show the key role that reading volume plays in the development of comprehension. Also, it helps build vocabulary, general knowledge, and cognitive structures. Because of this, time spent reading is crucially important. In “Reading in the Wild”, Donalyn Miller states:
“we cannot overlook one truth: no matter what standards we implement or reading tests we administer, children who read most will always outperform those who don’t read much“.
Despite this truth, many teachers struggle with fitting in independent reading time. Teachers have standards to meet and tests to prepare for. Because of this, independent reading often falls to the wayside. This is so sad!
Why should independent silent reading be practiced in our classrooms?
In “Building Student Literacy Through Sustained Silent Reading”, Steve Gardiner states
“a significant number of research studies have examined sustained silent reading programs, evaluating their effectiveness with students from primary grades to graduate school… and most of these studies show that SSR is successful in promoting and improving student literacy“.
Later, he goes on to state:
“Giving them time to read is clearly the most important thing I do with my students. It:-builds vocabulary;-connects to writing;-develops an understanding of the qualities of good readers;-meets needs the teacher might not know about; and-gives students a chance to connect with reading is an unstructured situation.”
Each time our students engage with a book, they encounter fresh ideas, words, and sentence structures. With each passing minute dedicated to reading, their foundation strengthens incrementally. As a result, the act of reading becomes progressively easier and more enjoyable for our students.
What are some additional benefits of Independent silent reading?
I have passionately worked to make sure my classes have time for silent reading each day. Some of the additional pluses I have found include:
-Opportunity for student choice – The majority of reading in school is assigned, but the beauty of independent silent reading lies in students choosing their own materials. Just like adults who have the freedom to select any book they desire, children should also be granted these authentic reading opportunities.
-Builds reading confidence –
During silent reading time, the intention is to maintain an uninterrupted flow. Consequently, students are compelled to independently navigate through any trouble spots. This process significantly contributes to the development of their reading confidence.
-Students actually want to read more – Engaging in reading, sharing, and discussing books actively inspires students to explore new genres willingly. This, in turn, ignites a greater interest in exploring diverse authors’ works. Additionally, students find themselves propelled to eagerly delve into the subsequent installment of a series. Ultimately, they want to read more!
For additional information, check out our independent reading tips and tricks!
For additional reading information that you can apply to your own classroom, check out our complete reading strategy guide!
Looking for some resources to use alongside your Independent Silent Reading time?
Click on one of the images below to head straight over to my Teachers Pay Teachers store. There, you can snag a set of my Reading Comprehension Strategy Posters! You can use these posters alongside ANY novel or short story. The deep thinking questions are great comprehension checks. This helps to make sure your kids are actually reading during their silent reading time!
Looking for more information on independent silent reading?
Check out my previous posts below.
Independent Silent Reading – Tip and Tricks
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