How to Create Reading Routines in Middle School

Creating effective reading routines early in the school year is crucial for setting the tone for academic success in a middle school English Language Arts classroom. A consistent reading habit not only improves literacy skills but also fosters a lifelong love for reading. However, many teachers struggle with the steps to make a consistent reading routine happen. Here are practical steps to help you build an effective reading routine for your middle school students.

Step 1: Set Clear Reading Goals

Setting achievable reading goals is the first step in establishing a reading routine. For middle school students, start by setting both short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals might include finishing a book within two weeks or reading a specific number of pages each day, while long-term goals could involve completing a series or reaching a certain number of books by the end of the semester.

Encourage your students to set personal reading goals tailored to their interests and reading levels. This personalization helps motivate them and gives them a sense of ownership over their reading journey. Having a daily reading tracker or bookmark can help with these goals. As your students read, they can track their reading for the day or week. Grab this FREE Reading Tracker for your students!

Step 2: Create a Cozy Reading Environment to Create a Reading Routine

Designing a comfortable reading space in the classroom can significantly impact students’ willingness to read. Consider arranging seating to create cozy nooks or using bean bags and cushions for a relaxed atmosphere. Proper lighting is also essential—natural light is ideal, but adjustable lamps can work well too.

Involve students in setting up the reading area. When they contribute to the design, they feel more connected to the space and are more likely to use it.

Step 3: Incorporate Daily Reading Time

Daily reading practice is vital for developing strong reading habits. Schedule a specific time each day for independent reading. Because some of the middle school classes are on tight time periods, the first 10 minutes of each period is a perfect way to get students to settle down. Stick to this schedule consistently to make reading a regular part of the routine. During this time, allow students to choose their own books to foster a sense of autonomy and cater to their interests.

Step 4: Use Reading Logs and Journals

Reading logs, journals, and reading bookmarks are excellent tools for tracking progress and reflections. Provide students with templates to record the books they read, their thoughts, and any new vocabulary they encounter.

These logs not only help students keep track of their reading but also allow you to monitor their progress and provide feedback. Encourage students to reflect on their reading experiences in their journals to deepen their understanding and engagement with the text.

Step 5: Introduce a Variety of Genres

Exposing students to a wide range of genres is crucial for expanding their reading horizons. Introduce them to genres such as fantasy, mystery, historical fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

Create book displays or reading lists featuring different genres, and encourage students to explore new ones. This variety can spark interest and help students discover new favorite types of books.

Step 6: Implement Book Talks and Discussions

Organizing book talks in the classroom can generate excitement about reading. Schedule regular sessions where students can share their thoughts on books they’ve read.

Guide these discussions with open-ended questions and encourage respectful dialogue. Suggested questions might include: “What did you like most about the book?” or “How did the main character change throughout the story?”

Here is an extensive list of book talk questions from Scholastic.

Step 7: Leverage Technology

Incorporating technology can enhance the reading experience. Use e-readers and reading apps to provide access to a wide range of books. Online resources like book recommendation sites and reading challenge platforms can also be valuable.

Teach students how to use these tools to find books and track their reading progress. Technology can make reading more accessible and engaging for digital-savvy students.

Step 8: Encourage Family Involvement

Family involvement is key to reinforcing reading habits. Suggest at-home reading activities, such as family reading nights or reading aloud together.

Communicate with parents about their children’s reading goals and progress. Provide tips for supporting reading at home, such as setting aside a daily reading time or visiting the local library together. Here is a great website that can give you some ideas for your parents to encourage family involvement in their child’s reading.

Step 9: Celebrate Reading Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating reading achievements can motivate students to continue their reading journey. Consider setting up a system for tracking and rewarding progress, such as a reading chart or certificates.

Organize reading challenges or competitions to add an element of fun and excitement. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, can boost students’ confidence and enthusiasm for reading.

You can also create a book bulletin board like the one here on the right. Have your students fill out a book template, and add their books a shelf on your bulletin board. In addition, you can create a reading challenge for the class in a similar fashion.

Building a successful reading routine in middle school ELA involves setting clear goals, creating a comfortable environment, incorporating daily reading time, using reading logs, introducing various genres, implementing book talks, leveraging technology, encouraging family involvement, and celebrating achievements. Start implementing these tips today to foster a love for reading in your students.

We’d love to hear your experiences and additional tips for building reading routines. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• How to Create Reading Routines in Middle School
• 3 Classroom Decorating Ideas for Middle School Teachers
• 5 Ways to Avoid Teacher Burnout
• Teaching with AI & ChatGPT in the ELA Classroom
• How to Celebrate Black History Month in the Classroom