Read+Naturally

=What is Read Naturally?= >>> Students in my classrom use Read Naturally to improve their reading fluency. Read Naturally is an indpendent computer based reading software program. Students are given stories according to their independent reading level. Students are given new vocabulary words and then complete a "cold timing" of a story. Students than listen to the story and complate a series of oral practice readings. When students meet their goal, they are prompted to answer 5 comprehension questions. When students feel they are ready, the then ask me to listen to them read. I then record a "hot timing." The repeated readings and exposure to a variety of non-fictional text increases their oral reading fluency.

Individualized Program
>>> Because Read Naturally is an individualized program, it minimizes both the anxiety and risk of boredom sometimes associated with learning to read. Students progress through reading levels at their own pace, so more advanced students don't have to wait for less skilled students to catch up. At the same time, struggling readers can continue working on a story without feeling pressured to move ahead too quickly. Because students work without the distraction of their peers, they are more likely to stay on task and be engaged in reading.

Owning Their Success
>>> Students using Read Naturally develop a sense of independence and autonomy by choosing their own stories, taking the time they need to master a story, and progressing through reading levels at their own pace. This approach allows them to take ownership of their learning and responsibility for their success.

High-Interest Stories
>>> Read Naturally engages young readers with high-interest nonfiction stories—age-appropriate stories that tap into students' natural curiosity about the world. Whether the topic is The Cloning Controversy or The Cuban Missile Crisis, Tarantulas or Tyrannosaurus Rex, Read Naturally keeps children intrigued and inspired to continue reading. [TBD: link to sample stories]

Keeping It Fun
>>> Read Naturally products improve reading ability by making it fun—a critically important element of our success. The high-interest stories, timers, quizzes, crossword puzzles, stickers, graphs, and posters not only teach the essentials of reading, they also keep students engaged, provide positive reinforcement, and encourage active participation in the learning process. >>> As a result of these qualities, teachers observe many positive changes in their students and in the classroom, including:
 * Increased levels of confidence, self-esteem, and personal pride
 * Improved attitudes toward school and learning
 * Greater interest in reading on their own
 * Decreased behavioral problems