Getting to Know Your Readers

I record notes into a composition book. As I begin to write, I tell the student that I'm jotting down our conversation to help me remember. I tell them I want to get to know them as a reader so that I can help them grow in their reading. When I bring a student to my table for a conference, I ask them to bring the book they are currently reading and their reading notebook (we are using binders this year). What do we talk about?

ONE
I ask students to tell me what is happening in their book so far. We might discuss the book a little bit before I ask them to read a paragraph or two aloud to me. I am paying attention to see if they chose a "just right" book or not. I listen to their fluency as well. If I feel the book is too easy, I suggest that they finish the book and then try a book that's a little more challenging. I might even go over to our reading center and show them some books I think they might enjoy. If the book appears too hard, I take them to the reading center and help them find a "just right" book.

TWO
I take the opportunity to look through their reading notebook to see if they've followed directions for recording books and writing responses. This is the perfect time to do a quick little mini lesson if student's misunderstand how to do something.

THREE
I ask them how they feel about themselves as readers. Do they like to read? What is their favorite genre? What is their favorite book? This week I discovered that at least three of my boys are rereading the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series.

Reading conferences are a great way to get to know your readers. I spend 3-5 minutes with each student until I've met with everyone. I will begin completing individual reading inventories with students once I finish up my initial conferences. I try to confer throughout the week (a minute or two drive-by), and hold conferences every six weeks or so.