Beryl Schaefer
November 2, 2010
Article Review 2
EDUC 463 Reid
The benefits of Sustained Silent Reading (SSR), the variables confounding research as to its efficacy, the varying implementation methods, and how each of these affects outcomes.
• Guiding question(s): How can I successfully implement a program of SSR in my classroom/school? What methods of program proposal would be most persuasive in order to gain the administration’s approval as well as full investment, and participation in the program by the entire staff--classified and licensed- showing value and support for reading as they lead by example and modeling? What are some ways to lead a successful classroom discussion of independently read books?...and so on (see article review 1).
Silva, Peggy. “Can We Read Today, or Do We Hafta Do English?” English
Journal 93.1, (2003): 29-32.
Silva describes that, “cultivating a culture of reading in ninth-grade English... has increased student interest and renewed her teaching,” (29). She outlines initial strategies at the beginning, the results as well as the focus on her students- their thoughts, ideas, conditions, and characteristics of reading.
The author examines students’ preferences in books, favorable conditions for reading, and incorporating required texts with their own reading choices. Students’ engagement is heightened, when despite their differences, discussions are inclusive, as “the conversation invites all...to participate in a discussion governed by our styles, our habits, our likes and dislikes—not our abilities,” (30). She merges their ideas/thoughts into her course teaching plans with clear expectations of mandatory reading. The students read required books and participate in activities to demonstrate basic reading skills. To gain proficiency or advanced skills, they read a “certain number” of books they have chosen and read freely.
Silva’s changes in classroom culture around reading raise more questions than answers. Her questions will inform her practice and she mentions possibly developing an Action Research study into reading immersion.
I share many of the author’s beliefs and it is gratifying to witness success at creating avid readers through reading immersion in school.