100 Book Challenge

The "100 Book Challenge" is a reading program used throughout the entire Binghamton City School District from kidergarten through 5th grade. The philosophy behind it is to get children to learn that reading can be fun. This is a systematic independent reading program that puts books into the children's hands and allows them to read independently at their own level.

Our class started this program in December, 2001. We do "100 Book Challenge" 4-5 days a week in the classroom. Everyday, Monday through Thursday, your child will bring home the "100 Book Challenge" bag with a folder, 2 books to read and a reading log. Please sit with your child and listen to him or her read. Your child should be able to read most of the words. If help is needed please feel free to give it. The idea is for your child to have a positive experience reading a book that is just the right level for him or her.

Why is reading so important? Why are we stressing independent reading for pleasure? Read the following facts:

Patterns of Reading Practice Terrance Paul, Institute for Academic Excellence, University Research Park, WI 1996 Top achieving 5% read 144 times more than lowest 5%. Students in private schools spend 67%more time reading than public school students. The quantity of trade book reading is the single best predictor of test score performance and success in schools. Students improve 2.66 grade levels per year per 60 minutes per school day they spend reading trade books.

Here are some things you should do to get ready to read with your child (from the "100 Book Reading" Reading Readiness Skills Card).

Get a snack.

Have child choose a book.

Turn off the TV or radio.

Snuggle up. Relax together.

Have fun with the book.

Ham it up.

Don't test your child.

Think out loud about what you're reading and the pictures

1. "This makes me think of..."
2. "I know what is going to happen..."
3. "I wonder...."