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Readers' Workshop

What is Readers' Workshop?

It is a format that provides structure to support children learning to read. This structure provides for 60 minutes of uninterrupted time to support children as they learn what good readers do. Predictable rituals and routines provide consistent expectations.

What does the class period look like during Readers' Workshop?

The Readers' Workshop contains three parts: an Opening, a Work Session, and a Closing.

Opening

During this time, the teacher teaches a 10-15 minute mini-lesson that brings the entire class together as a whole group for a single reading focus.

Work Session

During this 35-40 minute Work Session, the students read (independently in their "just right" books, with partners, or participating in literature circles or book clubs). The teacher confers with individual students, conducts guided reading or strategy groups, or assesses students.

Closing

The 5-10 minute Closing brings the class back together to share what they learned as a reader, often reinforcing the mini-lesson.

What drives the Readers' Workshop?

Each grade level has a set of internationally benchmarked standards that provide a framework for instruction. However the mini-lessons are chosen through on-going assessment that often includes running records, anecdotal notes, interest inventories, written assessment, and direct observation. Lessons are chosen to move the class toward the standard.

Thank you to the staff and students of Chets Creek Elementary in Jacksonville, Florida who allowed us to visit and so generously shared their knowledge with us.

Visit our Literacy Links page for fun reading activities to support our work in reading!