Grades 2 and 3

Developing readers recognize many more words on sight than they did as beginners. They combine strategies, using meaning as well as “sounding out” words they don’t know. Sometimes they substitute words that are similar in appearance and meaning, but they are becoming more skilled at catching mistakes. Developing readers are also becoming better silent readers. And they write more!

1. Read silently when reading to him or herself?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. often

2. Seem aware of mistakes and try to correct them?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. often

3. Use more than one reading strategy to figure out new words?
a. sounds out b. uses meaning c. uses both

4. Read chapter books and other items that cannot be completed in one sitting?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. often

1. Find information in a book or on a computer without help?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. often

2. Read aloud with expression?
a. not yet b. some expression c. lots of expression

3. Write words using conventional spelling?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. more and more

4. Leave phone messages, make lists, send e-mail and do other kinds of writing?
a. not yet b. sometimes c. more and more

• Still sounds choppy when reading aloud. Rereading can help smooth it out.
• Makes spelling mistakes. Spelling patterns take time to learn.
• Reads books that may seem too easy. Your child is building confidence as well as skills.

• When your children read aloud, help them catch and correct their own mistakes by asking guiding questions. For example, you might ask, “Does that word really make sense here? What letter does it start with? What do you think it could be?”
• Talk about the books you read together, and also about the books your children are reading on their own.
• Don’t stop reading aloud! Developing readers can read simple chapter books alone, but they still need you to help read the kinds of books that will challenge their thinking and build their vocabulary.
• Suggest that your child read to a younger brother, sister or neighbor. It will be good practice, a chance to show off skills and an inspiration for the younger listener.

• Novels for “middle readers” that you can read aloud together
• Information books for young readers
• A variety of genres, including biographies, humorous stories and poetry