“This is boring!”

“I can’t understand what they are talking about!”

“Can you read it to me?”

If you have heard any of the following, then you must be an English teacher! Unfortunately, all people do not love literature as much as we book lovers do, but there is a simple way to get students to read. No I don’t mean by pressing firmly on the back of their neck as they stare at a book, and not letting go until they utter their last word—I mean by diversifying your reading selection. {link to last Richard Peck Post)

My last blog I wrote about my experience with reading, and I dare say, some things have not changed. Many students feel empowered when reading positive stories about themselves. It’s not only a great way to get them motivated about reading, but also about life.

Consider the demographics of your class. Now do the same for the required literature. If there is an extreme disconnect, you have now found why your students equate reading to extreme boredom. I think it’s safe to say that in the 21st century, literature that deals with the life of all races and ethnicities should be included in the classroom.

Trust me…your students will thank you!

Celia Anderson
Author and Public Speaker
www.celiaanderson.com