Background: In the context of the ongoing crisis in early reading literacy in South Africa, this article gives insight into teacher practices which reduce learners' opportunities to read continuous text for meaning. Aim: This ethnographic study investigated the microcosm of teacher practices in well-resourced environments. Setting: A purposive…

Defines Uninterrupted Sustained Silent Reading and explains the need for it, how to use it effectively, what to expect from it, and what to do if something goes wrong. (FL)

Advocates sustained silent reading (SSR) in elementary classrooms to ensure a positive attitude towards reading. Defines important aspects of SSR and discusses its implementation and value. (SR)

Traces the rationale for removing Sustained Silent Reading from reading instruction as implied by the Reading First initiative. Suggests that no one is accepting responsibility. Notes the authors are apparently out of step with their teaching because they recommend and use many practices that have not been validated by studies conducted by the…

Gives suggestions for successful implementation of sustained silent reading. (MKM)

Suggests that teachers serve as models for children during sustained silent reading periods; teachers' behaviors and attitudes are reflected in those of their students. (JM)

Describes a method of motivating students to read by using the uninterrupted sustained silent reading method. (MKM)

Suggests adding an uninterrupted sharing activity (USA) after uninterrupted sustained silent reading (USSR) to increase students' comprehension and enjoyment of reading. (MG)

Discusses how to use sustained silent reading to encourage elementary students in independent reading. The strategies include making independent reading a key part of every day, being sure students know the strategies they should practice, and concluding independent reading sessions by discussing strategies. The paper presents a list of 13…

The independent reading program described in this lesson plan gives students time to read what they want to read, share what they have read, and receive the support they need for further reading explorations and reflections. Students will: work in a community of readers and learners, including other class members, family members, their teacher,…

Offers suggestions for recapturing the interest of students in silent reading. (FL)

Describes the process of mental modeling, a technique for helping poor readers become strategic readers by increasing their metacognitive control. (ARH)

Describes the development of uninterrupted sustained silent reading (USSR) as an integral part of the elementary school curriculum, and describes the use of a student attitude survey to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the USSR program in a particular classroom. Includes a copy of the survey. (HTH)

Describes six basic formats that can be used to teach reading in the elementary classroom: shared reading, read-aloud, guided reading, Readers Theatre, sustained silent reading, and literature circles. Includes descriptions of the focus of instruction, suggestions for implementation strategies, and examples of materials that could be utilized.…