Reading Resolutions

From The Mailbox

The new year is a great time for students to set new reading goals. Give each student a paper triangle (party hat) and direct the child to write on it a reading goal he or she would like to work toward, such as the number of minutes to read each day, the number of books to read each week, or the kinds of books to read. Next, provide time for each child to decorate the hat before sharing his or her goals aloud with the class. Post the hats on a display titled "Our Reading Resolutions." Then, once a week, pose one of the questions shown and direct each student to write a response in his or her journal. For younger students, pose a question to lead a class discussion.

• What have you done this week to reach your reading goal?
• How do you feel about your efforts to reach your reading goal?

Explain.
• Do you need to adjust your reading goal? Why or why not?
• What have you learned this week as you've worked toward your reading goal?
• What was the best thing you read this week while working toward your reading goal? Describe it.