Response 2 - A Matter of Interest

Older readers who struggle shy away from reading when they constantly have bad experiences with texts. These kids need literature that challenges them and not defeats them. So, what motivates a person to read? Well, I have to agree with the author of the article that people read what they are interested in. Giving students good experiences with topics they are interested in will motivate students to read more and more.

The interesting and useful thing about this article was her discussion and explination of why certain types of text work. I loved the street rhymes idea where students collected the rhymes from the community and compared and contrasted them as a class. What a great way to tap into personal experience with repetitive language! I also liked their discussion behind the use of comics and magazines. These types of literature really motive your struggling and disintrested reader! I know from experience that boys love these type of texts, and it is exciting to see them become "addicted" to reading.

Lastly, schools and teachers should provide interesting materials available for free reading. THis is VERY important, as stated by the author. Although some of these texts might not be deemed "educational," it is important that we allow students to read what they want for pleasure. If we can get them feeling great about reading, I truly believe they will be more willing to read assigned texts.