Students who struggle with reading soon become resistant to it. As a result their vocabulary and academic knowledge grows further and further behind. When a book is pulled for the child to read for “fun,” careful consideration should be given to the reading level, story quality, and interest of the reader.
Frequently, students who are intellectually at grade level, but are lower in their reading skills are given books that are for younger children. They are aware of this and do not want to be embarrassed in front of their friends. As a result, they resist reading more which can manifest itself into behavior problems within the classroom or internally as the child shuts down.
Some newer curriculums are starting to reach the schools that helps students in this situation. They are often referred to as high-interest, low-vocabulary books. These books are on the same subjects and provide the same information as their peers’ books, but are written with a more readable vocabulary. It is unfortunate that these books are still somewhat difficult for families to find. One method of is looking at used book stores online where the prices are lower for the individual book, but it typically doesn’t come with the entire curriculum of tests and worksheets.
Students enjoy these books and it helps to build their confidence as they are reading the same books as their peers, such as Tom Sawyer or a book about Volcanoes. As their confidence builds, they are more likely to try even more difficult books, which helps build their vocabulary and reading skills.