Still Learning to Read, 2nd edition: Teaching Students in Grades 3–6

by Franki Sibberson

Foreword by Colby Sharp   In the decade since the first edition of Still Learning to Read was published, the prevalence of testing and the Common Core State Standards have changed what is expected of both teachers and students. The new edition of Still Learning to Read focuses on the needs of students in grades 3–6 in all aspects of reading workshop, including reading workshop, read-aloud, classroom design, digital tools, fiction, nonfiction, and close reading. The book stays true to its original beliefs of slowing down and knowing our readers, but it also takes into account the sense of urgency that changing times and standards impose on classrooms. This edition examines current trends in literacy, includes a new section on intentional instructional planning, and provides expanded examples of mini-lessons and routines that promote deeper thinking about learning. It also includes a brand new chapter on scaffolding for reading nonfiction and showcases the authors’ latest thinking on close reading and text complexity. Online videos provide glimpses into classrooms as students make book choices, work in small groups, and discuss their reading notebooks. Expanded and updated book lists, recommendations for digital tools, lesson cycles, and sections specifically written for school leaders round out this foundational resource.

Genres: Teaching, Nonfiction, Education

470 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that I was a little taken aback when I started this. That is, when my boss handed this to me a while back before school was out for this summer, I was lead to believe that its focus – or purpose, for that matter – was on students who were still stuck learning how to read. You know, as if they were having difficulties that left them behind wallowing in the dust of their peers more rapid acceleration. Boy, was I wrong. But that turned out to be a good thing.

Having just recently completed their earlier work, Beyond Leveled Books: Supporting Transitional Readers Grades 3-5, I was reminded that all intermediate students – no matter how accomplished -- are still learning to read. They can decode, sure. (Or most, at any rate.) But the challenges and needs for growth come from the cognitive demand when narratives and texts become more complex – in content, vocabulary, or developmental-appropriateness.

The bulk of this book centers on developing a sustaining classroom in which students are reading books – not dull basal readers -- year-round. It starts with a well-stocked and organized classroom library, thoughtful instruction centered on thinking strategies, conversations (both oral and in writing) about what we’re reading, developing stamina to tackle harder texts over time, supporting thinking using text evidence, and creating young readers who have tastes and preferences that will sustain them for life.

None of these are exactly revolutionary ideas in education, but Szymusiak & Sibberson’s well-outlined plan makes this book a must-read for any reading teacher to review before the school doors open in the fall.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the past four years, since discovering it, Still Learning to Read has been my touchstone text for setting up my reader's workshop structures each year. I am particularly grateful for two pieces: the lists of mentor text titles and the specificity around reader's notebooks. Thanks to Still Learning to Read, I have returned to the practice of keeping my own reader's notebook. Not only has it been an engaging model for my students, it has also been an indispensable source of authentic topics for focus lessons. Stepping up the quality of my own reflections on reading has helped me guide readers more effectively in the classroom.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Can't believe I missed the first edition, but this upcoming second edition was outstanding. So excited and motivated to start the new year! Will be sharing this with my staff!

[Colby Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great quick read. My big take aways are that I need to remember my fourth graders have only been reading for a few years and they still have plenty to learn about the art of reading. I loved the idea of having readers from the community come in and talk about their lives as readers. Looking forward to trying that next year.

[Ursula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Filled with ideas and lesson that you can use in your classroom. I was so thankful that the lessons and ideas presented will meet my districts standards but still allow kids to read.

[Zac Sigler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I've read related to some of the more advanced skills that my students use AND logical ways to create a reading friendly classroom. I particularly loved the line about getting over the notion that all students must be in a group just to be in a group.

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many great ideas and full of information on how to teach reading in intermediate grades. However, there are so many great ideas - it's a bit overwhelming as their are so many different things the author does to teach reading in her classroom.

[Jen Munnerlyn]

This book has been ordered for the 2009-10 school year for our work in Reader's Workshop.

[Susan Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

New thinking on intermediate reading acquisition. Excellent resources and graphics that will assist many teachers.

[Kim]

one more reread

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really helpful at the beginning of the school year to reinvigorate my LA program. It's a slightly different approach than I've taken before and it jump-started reading in my room!

[Katie Kirkland · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of good lessons to scaffold comprehension for kids. Especially liked the lessons on providing evidence from text to support thinking.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good! Inspired to improve my literature block!

[Gigi · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent resource for all elementary teachers. Practical advice with specific examples. A great addition to any professional book collection.

[Susan Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread this new version of this important book. Fresh thinking of integrating tech, aligning read aloud, planning across the year. A book you’ll revisit.