Independent Reading in the Secondary ELA Classroom: Engaging Middle School & High School Students

This #2ndaryELA Twitter chat was all about independent reading in the secondary ELA classroom. Middle school and high school English Language Arts teachers discussed the types of independent reading that take place in their classrooms, how to hold students accountable, and how to motivate them. Teachers also shared favorite independent reading projects and other helpful ideas.

Read through the chat below for ways to structure independent reading in your classroom, even with 45 minute periods. You'll find out how other teachers use conferences, book talks, check-ins, letters, and Goodreads as methods of accountability and motivation. You'll also get ideas about independent reading assignments, such as literary theme parks, literary feasts, movie posters, and book trailers.

Hope you'll join us next Tuesday November 8th at 8pm EST to talk about using social media to connect with other educators. We'd also love for you to join our 2ndaryELA Facebook group (even if you aren't on Twitter). 2ndaryELA is a group of middle and high school English Language Arts teachers looking to share ideas and best practices. This group is an extension of our Twitter chat and a place for collaboration, questions, and encouragement. Feel free to post teaching ideas, success stories, resource links, photos, etc. that will enhance our instruction.