Supporting Adolescent Readers (Scaffolded Reading Experiences)

Today’s Objectives:1.) We can determine how we use text for content area

learning.2.) We can consider how best to lesson plan in order to

support and engage our readers with content area texts.

3.) We can explore how to implement that lesson plan in the most effective way through a gradual release of responsibility model.

4.) We can plan our lessons considering what motivates students.

We can determine how we use text for content area learning.

What is Read: Kids still use textbook as basic source of information but

also venture far beyond it. Subject matter includes authentic, interesting, and

current issues relevant for young people. Instead of relying upon a single authority, students

consult a variety of sources and voices. Students sample a wide variety of genres. Reading selections have a range of lengths.

How it is read: Purpose for reading is to gather information, construct

meaning and apply knowledge (not to pass a test or complete a study guide).

Teacher selects some, but not all, of the readings. Not every student reads the same texts—some

common readings but also jigsaw and leveled texts. Teachers teach (and kids use) a repertoire of thinking

strategies. Reading is seen as social, rather than solitary—partner,

inquiry groups, teams, etc. Assessment of kids’ reading relies less on quizzes and

worksheets and more on complex products.Subjects Matter, p. 15-16

We can consider how best to lesson plan in order to support and engage our readers

with content area texts.

Dr. Jen McCarty Plucker Page 1

Supporting Adolescent Readers (Scaffolded Reading Experiences)

Scaffold the Reading Experience by Providing SupportBefore they Read with pre reading activities (front load), While they Read so they engage in and understand the text, andreward their hard work after they Read.

We can consider how best to lesson plan in order to support and engage our readers

with content area texts.

We can plan our lessons considering what motivates students.

1. Meaning is Motivating2. Control and Choice3. Reading is Social

Dr. Jen McCarty Plucker Page 2

Supporting Adolescent Readers (Scaffolded Reading Experiences)

4. Self-Efficacy (I can because I think I can)

5. Interest in Reading

Dr. Jen McCarty Plucker Page 3