Extended Readers

As a child progresses from the transitional stage of reading to the extending stage, the child:                          

• Selects a variety of “just-right” texts for varying purposes.
• Uses multiple strategies to problem solve unknown words quickly.
• Self-corrects all significant errors quickly.
• Reads a variety of genres such as fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, mystery, poetry, etc.
• Reads orally with expression and at an appropriate rate.
• Reads silently most of the time.

How can I help my extending reader?

• Make sure your child has access to a wide variety of reading materials that they can read successfully.
• Encourage your child to read silently on a daily basis.
• Engage your child in conversation about what they have read.
• Make sure that your child has a library card and uses it regularly.
• Read aloud the first few chapters of a book to get your child started; this is where the characters are introduced, the plot is set up, and the setting is described. 
• Be aware that reading level and listening level are different; read more advanced books to your child to instill motivation and a love of books