Dear Parents,
Every year many parents ask, “How can I help my child choose books that he or she can
read?” There is a very simple way to help your child choose good fit books. It is called IPICK.
IPICK is an acronym that stands for: I choose books to read, Purpose, Interest, Comprehend, and
Know the words. Here are some easy steps that you and your child can follow in order to choose
good fit books:
1. Have your child choose a book. This is the first I in IPICK which means “I choose books to read”.
2. Ask your child, “What is your purpose for choosing this book?” You may also want to ask, “Is it for fun or to learn something?” This is the P in IPICK which means purpose.
3. Ask your child, “Is this a book you are interested in?” This is the second I, which means interest.
4. Have your child read a page of the book. After your child reads the page, ask your child, “Who did you read about and what did they do?” This is the C in IPICK which stands for comprehend. If it is a good fit book your child should be able to answer your question.
5. Have your child read another page (or use the same page) and ask, “Did you know the words?”This is the K in IPICK which stands for know the words. Your child should know all or almost all of the words in order for it to be a good fit book.
Going through the steps of choosing a good fit book should only take a couple minutes. It
has been my experience that many children can easily choose good fit books once they have
mastered the process of IPICK. Other children may need more guidance from mom or dad as they
choose good fit books. This is an ongoing process that we will continue to learn and practice at
school.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. Thank you for supporting
your child’s education at home!
Sincerely,
Mrs. C. Cross
ccross@dist50.net
847-984-8860