Building a Spanish Class Library: Free Reading for All Students!

Funded Jun 20, 2019

My students are learning high frequency words thanks to the comprehensible input they get from reading in the target language. I decided that I would try to make reading so easy that it could be enjoyable and relaxing for all students. Every Tuesday and Thursday, I do bell-ringers. After that, everyone comes in and reads quietly for 10 minutes, in all my classes. It is a soothing, peaceful way to start class. I have a minute to collect myself before we jump in, and the students have that transition time of "switching to Spanish" before class starts, and can choose according to their interests.

Students are finding success because they are reading authentic resources in the target language. Students are learning and getting the grammar of the language subconsciously because they are reading novels that are comprehensible and enjoyable. Silent reading definitely supplements grammar instruction. I have realized that students in classes that include time set aside for voluntary reading in the form of sustained silent reading do better than those in similar classes without sustained silent reading on tests of reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and grammar.

I can't thank you enough for helping me provide an enjoyable and comprehensible way of teaching.”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Hernandez