Helping Middle Grade Remedial Readers Find Books
Finding the best books for middle grade remedial readers can be a game-changer in their academic journey. Reading can become an enjoyable and rewarding experience with the right materials, boosting confidence and improving literacy skills. This blog post will explore engaging reading material for struggling readers and provide tips on how parents and teachers can support these young learners.
Keep in mind that the key to good reading is practice, practice, practice. In other words, kids must read often in order to learn and assimilate the reading skills that are so essential to becoming good and lifelong readers. So an important part of any middle school remedial reading program is connecting students with good books that they will want to read. Remedial students must associate reading with a positive experience. It is key that they are provided books that are both fun and within their level of reading ability. An ideal book for middle grade remedial readers would be interesting, not too long and provide plenty of context and visual clues that allow students to figure out any words they may not already know. This exposure and mastery of new reading skills and vocabulary will not only improve their reading capabilities, but it will also instill a positive attitude about reading. Check out the general and specific suggestions for books that middle grade remedial readers will enjoy.
Best Books for Middle Grade Remedial Readers
Illustrated Joke Books: Combining Humor and Reading Practice
Illustrated joke books are an excellent choice for middle school remedial readers. The humor keeps readers engaged and entertained, while the illustrations help break up the text and provide visual context. Joke books can make reading a fun activity rather than a chore, encouraging more frequent reading. Titles like Dad Jokes by Ralph Lane are perfect for bringing joy and laughter into reading practice.
2. High-Interest, Low-Readability Books
High-interest, low-readability (hi-lo) books are designed to engage older readers with lower reading levels. These books cover topics that interest middle school students but are written in a way that is accessible to them. Series like “Orca Currents” and “Stone Arch Readers” provide exciting stories without overwhelming struggling readers with complex language.
3. Audiobooks: Enhancing Comprehension and Enjoyment
Audiobooks can be an invaluable tool for remedial readers. Listening to a story while following along with the text can improve comprehension and fluency. It also allows students to enjoy books that might be too challenging to read independently. Platforms like Audible and library apps like OverDrive offer a wide selection of audiobooks suitable for middle grade readers.
4. Relatable Stories: Connecting with Characters and Themes
Books featuring relatable characters and themes can captivate remedial readers and motivate them to read more. Stories that reflect their own experiences or introduce them to new perspectives can be particularly engaging. Titles like “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio and “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt are excellent choices that offer powerful messages and relatable characters.
5. Graphic Novels: Visual Appeal for Reluctant Readers
Graphic novels are a fantastic option for middle grade remedial readers. The combination of visual storytelling and text can make reading less intimidating and more enjoyable. The illustrations provide context clues that help readers understand the story, which can be especially helpful for struggling readers. Popular graphic novels like “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey or “Smile” by Raina Telgemeier are great starting points.
Tips for Parents and Teachers: Supporting Remedial Readers
Supporting remedial readers involves more than just providing the right books. Here are some tips for parents and teachers:
•Create a Reading Routine: Establish a daily reading routine to build consistency and confidence.
•Celebrate Progress: Recognize and celebrate even small achievements to boost motivation.
•Use Reading Strategies: Encourage strategies like summarizing, predicting, and questioning to enhance comprehension.
•Be Patient and Encouraging: Patience and encouragement are key to helping remedial readers develop a love for reading.
Recommended Books for Middle Grade Readers
Check out some of the recommended books for middle school remedial readers by following the affiliate links below. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission to help keep the site running, at no additional cost to you.
Recommended Resources for Teachers, Parents, Librarians and Authors
Here are some more affiliate links to suggested reading materials to help middle school remedial students become successful readers:
Related Links from Other Sources & Posts
Here are a couple links to some more fun ideas to make reading fun for middle school students:
