by Faith Stackert

Have you ever heard anyone say that? Have you ever said that yourself? I know that as a teacher, I have heard students say that before. In fact, if you went and asked my teachers when I was in school they would tell you that I was a classic example of a student who used to hate reading, but now have grown to love it. Most of the time, when people hate to read it is because this is a skill that they struggle with. Here are some things that can motivate a struggling reader and strengthen their skills at the same time!

1. Listen to the book on CD or tape while following along in the book.

The library has a vast collection of books on tape or CD. By listening to these and following along in the book at the same time, it can enhance the readers ability to recognize sight words.

2. Find a œNew Release.

Several of my students are enjoying books that also have a movie that goes along with them. Read the book first and then watching the movie serves as a satisfying reward when you are done. Readers can compare the book to the movie and see what was similar or different and which one they liked better. Many times, you will find out that the book really is better! Here are some books that my students are enjoying that also have newly released movies:

The Lovely Bones

The Last Song

Dear John

My Sister's Keeper

The Hunger Games

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

3. Find a favorite author or series

Many times, I find that students are not sure what book to read. They browse the shelves and just pick one out based on the artwork on the cover. Assist a struggling reader in choosing a series or a favorite author to read. Once they have found this series or author, they will be set for a while with lots of books to choose from.

4. Reading should not be a chore.

Reading is meant to be enjoyable and should not be looked at as a chore. If you know a reluctant reader, offer to read the book to them. Once you’re past the beginning, they may be interested in the book and now be more willing to continue on their own. You can also take turns reading back and forth. Take a break when you get tired and come back to it later.

5. Read with a friend

The CCLD Library often has multiple copies of favorite books that students like to read or they are able to get a second copy through intra-library loan very easily. Why don't you and your best friend choose the same book and read it at the same time chapter by chapter. After each chapter, stop and find a time to talk about what happened in the part you just read. Also, tell each other your favorite part and try to guess what will happen next!

6. Find the "type" of book you like best

There are many different genre's of books out there from fictional to non-fiction. These include (but are not limited to): Mysteries, Romance, Sports, Suspense, etc. This was the case for me personally. I learned I was really interested in reading about people's lives - that means reading either a biography or auto-biography! This opened up a whole new world for me!