Choosing Appropriate Texts

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2001 : July : 11

Choosing Appropriate Texts
By JES

Jenny,
To help students select a book that is not too difficult for them, I teach them what we call our "5-Finger Test." I ask them to open the book to any whole page of print and begin to read. As they read, they keep
track of any unknown words. If they find 5 or more unfamiliar words on one page, then it is probably too difficult, and maybe they should consider saving for another time. Then on the other hand, if they readily know all the words, then maybe the book is not challenging enough. The 5-Finger strategy is the final test of a book after they have considered the title (Does it grab their

attention?), author (Have they read something by this author before that they liked?), genre, book cover, synopsis on the back cover or inside flap, and peer recommendations. After teaching students things to consider before making a final book selection, I created a short (half-sheet) form for students to complete called:

"Choosing a Book I'll Want to Read and Not Ditch!"

Title________________________ Author_____________

1. I looked at the book cover, and I read the title and the back of the book (or inside flap). I was drawn to this book because . . .

2. I tried the 5-Finger Test on page_____ and found_______ unfamiliar words.

3. I tried the 5-Finger Test on page______ and found_______ unfamiliar words.

I've tried to pick a book I'll read and not ditch. I have decided to read this book.
Student Signature________________________________
Date_____________________
Teacher Signature_______________________________

Sometimes students still choose a book that they find they really don't want to finish reading. However, I feel the form causes them to stop and think a bit more about their book selection than they ever did before using the form. Actually, when students tell me they want to switch to another book, I often find out that they have slipped by me and omitted the important step of filling out their form. (With as many students as most of us have, this sometimes happens!) It then gives me the opportunity to remind them of the importance of making a more thoughtful book selection.

Hope this helps. I am anxious to see the ideas others post. I will gladly revise my form to fit new, more effective strategies!
Elaine