Chapter Four: R. Graves

I concure 100% with Donald Graves' (no relation) quote in chapter four that "The teacher teaches most by showing how he/she learns" (109). Teachers who lead by example -- do as I say as well as how I do -- have a better chance of influencing young readers to "live this experience." Sharing reading experiences demonstrates that we also "walk the talk." My students are always reading an outside book of their choice for "recreation" that we call a "Independent Reading Time" book; I approve their selections so they will not be reading something inappropriate or below their level...something preferably that will add to their cultural literaracy, but that is not mandated). I read as well -- and share my choices. Their standards for choices progress during the year as their reading competences increase. Additionally, other students' recommendations for "good reads" often foster an interest in more challenging texts. Higher expectations even in recreational reading delivers better readers and writers. Education, not a "cookie'cutter" profession, requires us to "meet the student where he/she is," socially and academically, with divergent instructional strategies and choices...in doing so with "recreational reads," hopefully, we will inspire curiousity and determination in developing life-long readers.