Motivation to Read

Question/Quote: “Why is it so important for teachers to consider the role of motivation in literacy learning?”

Answer/Quote: “…students who enjoyed reading the most performed significantly better than students who enjoyed reading the least. Perhaps of most concern was the finding that 37% of students reported that they do not read for any enjoyment at all. These findings are startling. Clearly, instruction that provides students with decoding and comprehensions skills and strategies is not sufficient.” P. 172.

Note: The author’s “Seven Rules of Engagement” are underwhelming. Here they are:

1. “Students are more motivated to read when the reading tasks and activities are relevant to their lives.” P. 173.

2. “Students are more motivated to read when they have access to a wide range of reading materials.” P. 173.

3. “Students are more motivated to read when they have ample opportunities to engage in sustained reading.” P. 174.

4. “Students are more motivated to read when they have opportunities to make choices about what they read and how they engage in and complete literacy tasks.” P. 175.

5. “Students are more motivated to read when they have opportunities to socially interact with others about the text they are reading.” P. 175.

6. “Students are more motivated to read when they have opportunities to be successful with challenging texts.” P. 176.

7. “Students are more motivated to read when classroom incentives reflect the value and importance of reading.” P. 176.

Comment: I’m sure my readers are aware of the substance of these “seven rules.” But the problem remains: how does one motivate students to read, especially as they grow older and have more technology to play with? RayS.

Title: “Seven Rules of Engagement.” Linda B. Gambrell. The Reading Teacher (November 2011), 172-178.