Partner reading adds a new layer to your reading workshop. Begin by assigning partners based on two criteria: (1) similar reading abilities, and (2) relationship. Partners will read texts and discuss them, so it is important that they can both read the text on their own confidently, and they get along well enough to engage in conversation (not to mention stay on task).
Select texts for partners (or allow partners to self select texts) on their reading level. Each child reads the text on their own, and then they get together to talk. Model this by selecting a student partner, reading a selection together, and talking about it in front of the class. Discuss rules of conversation:
(1) Both partners should get equal talk time.
(2) Partners should use respectful words and phrases to start and continue their conversations.
Teach students simple words and phrases to help them stay on task, use good manners, and keep the conversation flowing.
-"I agree, but I would like to add-"
-"I disagree because-"
-"What do you think?"
-"Could you show me the evidence in the text?"
-"I think-"
-"One more thing-"
-"A question I have-"
-"One thing I noticed-"
You can brainstorm more phrases like these with your class and write them on chart paper. Post the chart prominently to remind students how to hold discussions.
What can partners read? Short or long fiction or nonfiction, poetry, picture books, chapter books, magazine articles, news articles, and more. Partners can read different selections for discussions, choose their own books to discuss, or you can assign the whole class a reading text and then partner them off for discussion.
An example for whole class reading:
Reading text - 1/2 page on a science topic
Before reading - Gather students to discuss vocabulary and write what they already know about the topic on chart paper (and questions they might have).
Students read the text independently.
Students partner off and discuss what they learned, answers to questions they had, and any new questions that popped up during reading.
After reading / talking - Gather students and notate what they learned and new questions on the topic.
This simple activity is a great way to start a science or social studies unit. I am finding that the lowest, most reluctant readers engage in this process the most. Some kids need to talk about what they are reading in order to truly understand it. The discussion adds a new layer to their comprehension and confidence. Partner reading offers endless possibilities across the curriculum.
