Peter, this is another idea for fluency, one which our fifth graders in my elementary school are using. They're studying the genre of "rap" as well as music lyrics. Poetry--in all its forms-- is always a sure fire to work on fluency- and at the same time, will create some great discussions...

I would suggest reading a book such as Strategies That Work: Teaching Comprehension to Enhance Understanding by Stephanie Harvey and Anne Gouvis if you need a lot of advice on the topic. This and other books suggest different ways that students show comprehension (e.g. connecting the book to their lives...

Hi! I have a unique class of students this year (English). Technically, they are in grades 6-8-- in one class. Their levels are approximately third through low seventh. I would like to split the class in half and read two books that we can link with social studies. Any suggestions for books that would...

In Mary Ann's post dated 9-9-09, she brought up non-fiction, including Time for Kids and National Geo. Great suggestions Mary Ann. We use these in our school as well and they're successful, especially in grades 3-5. Peter, this is another idea for fluency, one which our fifth graders in my elementary...

I teach fifth grade and find that my struggling readers (especially boys) enjoy reading non-fiction and short stories. National Geographic and Time for Kids publish magazines that look the same and contain the same topics, but they are written for different levels. As for short stories, Richard Peck...

Hi! Here are some suggestions for story books for the middle elementary grades. Here are a few of my favorites that will connect to social issues in the classroom as well. First, is Enemey Pie ( talks about getting along) and second is Mr. Peabody's Apples. This is a great story, written by Madonna...

Hi Peter, Do you have the F & P or DRP level? StoneFox is a great read for my third graders, but might entice your struggling fifth graders. There is a great program called Reading for Meaning which might also supplement books. It focuses on reading strategies such as Main Idea, Cause and Effect...

I've found that the series books by Gordan Korman, such as the Island series, have been a hit with my upper level students. The reading level is beginning fourth grade level (lexile 610).

You might also try graphic novels. Some favorites for young children include Captain Underpants and Bone. However, there are many, many books, including classic literature, available in graphic novel format. The Spiderwick Chronicles are also popular with children right now. They are rather easy and...