Last school year, the McNicholas English Department implemented choice reading into each English classes, allowing students to find a book of their interest rather than only a class assigned one. At the beginning of each class, students are given 15 minutes to read the book of their liking, allowing them to discover new and engaging books.
English teacher Mrs. Andrea Wheeler said, “Being able to read things they enjoy instead of the things people tell them to allows them to find what they like.” Choice reading has caused many students to fall back into reading and find a passion towards it because they can see what they prefer reading instead of choosing through a list. This has helped students know what they do and don’t prefer to read, making it easier to pick their next book.
English teacher Mrs. Julie Dill said, “We were trying to give students more opportunity to read and be more engaged with what they wanted to read and celebrate reading.” Choice reading has become a way to look at the joys of what reading can bring. It provides a great break from technology since many assignments are on laptops. “Students like having the ability to select what they want to read,” Dill added. Being able to feel in control of what they are learning is a great way for students to continue wanting to learn more and have fun with what they are choosing for themselves.
“I love having time at the beginning of class to take a mental break through reading, without having any pressure of doing any projects or essays; it makes reading more enjoyable,” junior Allison Runte said.
Sophomore Luke Richards said, “I enjoy choice reading because it feels like a productive break from my day.” This time in class has allowed students to find a way to express themselves through the books that they choose, and when they finish a book, students can add a copy paper of the cover of their finished book to finish the English hallway wall to showcase their reading accomplishment.
The McNicholas Milestone 