Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Justification for Reading

Being an English major, I guess it may not surprise people that I love to read (: Over Spring Break, I actually had some free time which is incredibly hard to find in the middle of a semester. I got to read books that have been gathering dust on my shelf. Although, typically I'm into reading the more 'adult' books, I found myself drawn to looking through some young adult literature that I've had for years. I actually opted to read one of those quick stories simply to gain the experience of reading it. I figure that like a speaker in my class said, it's important to be able to inform students about books that they may like to read. If you are trying to promote reading in your class, then surely you will have to expect that some students will ask you for good books. Like many other English majors I've encountered, I find that a lot of people have lists of books that they have been meaning to read. Along with my many other books, I decided to start writing down some YAL as well! This summer I want to read as much as I can, not only for fun, but to gain knowledge about different books, genres, and authors. With popular books such as The Hunger Games coming out, I want to stay on top of my game. Keeping up with the latest books will allow me to stay in touch with the changes that are taking place in literature. This way I'll be able to suggest books to my students and hope that it compels them to want to read more. If you guys have read any great books, I'm certainly open to suggestions. I'm always willing to add books to my list! (:

4 comments:

  1. I think that's a great idea. Some students will adamantly say over and over that they hate literature. I personally believe that they just haven't been exposed to a book, author, or genre that interests them enough to hold their attentions. It is good for you, as the teacher, to be that resource for the students. Once you know their personalities, interests, and dispositions, you might be able to offer suggestions to Johnny about what literature he can actually connect with instead of watching him struggle to find a book he likes. You can guide him in the right direction. Teachers are tools!

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  2. I completely agree! I spent time over break reading some books for class of course, but I also read the other two books of the Hunger Games trilogy, and it felt good to read something on my own time that was not a requirement for class. Taking 21 credits this semester I have next to no free time to read for my own enjoyment. My boyfriend got me a Kindle for my birthday and I just want to spend all summer reading as well. I think we are great resources for our students and the more we read, the more we will have to offer them. I also have a "list" of books I plan to read someday. There are so many classics that I was never required to read in HS- such as The Scarlet letter and The Great Gatsby. One thing I would suggest is using the website goodreads.com. Tim mentioned it in class a few weeks ago and I decided to check it own and join & I've found it to be very helpful. You can create lists of books that you have read, want to read, and are currently reading. You can also rate books and add friends and see what they are reading. You'll have to check it out! :)

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  3. I think the key to teaching ELA is to find that balance between canonical texts and YAL. I know at the high school I taught at there was almost no room for YAL. I think as you become teachers it's important to stress the value of YAL as a way to "connect" and "inform." I don't like to say that students like YAL more than the cannon, but I think they connect to it much easier in some cases. I'm truly happy that you value both and think you will be doing a great service to your students by presenting them with both.

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  4. One of things I get most excited for when summer rolls around is all the free time I will have to read. Your post has made me even more eager to start on my reading list for the summer!

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