Stamina is the ability to continue performing an activity for a prolonged period of time. Through this stamina or endurance, strength is created. Stamina is needed for many things, including exercise and creative endeavors, and reading falls under this as well. Reading stamina is the ability of an adolescent to focus and read independently for lengthy stretches of time without becoming disoriented or upsetting other people.
It is the ability to focus for at least 30 minutes straight each day. Reading is a tedious and unpleasant experience for kids who lack energy. Therefore they typically read as little as possible. Teenage students must practice developing their reading stamina. Reading stamina of teenage students to read for more extended periods of time can be created and increased with the help of parents and teachers.
Importance of reading stamina in students
The growth of literacy depends heavily on reading. It increases vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and cultural literacy. Reading well contributes to achievement in areas other than the classroom, and students who have mastered reading stamina are more disciplined, energetic, and efficient with their time. They develop the ability to pace themselves by exerting concentrated energy. Reading life is a skill that we acquire through experience and education; it is not something we are born with. Parents, teachers, and students can all aid adolescents in building their reading stamina. Remind students that building reading stamina is similar to learning how to run a mile in under eight minutes.
How to build and increase reading stamina in adolescent students
Here are a few tips and strategies to ensure they have that same level of stamina and perseverance when they open a book.
1. Reduce Distractions
There are times when a student in the classroom will want to discuss something they have just read, which is fantastic because it shows interest in the subject. However, it might distract fellow students. Therefore, remind students to communicate softly with their classmates when sharing. Keep the door closed to reduce hallway noise during classes. The student’s reading space should be free of any obstructions. Teachers should minimize interruptions by turning down electronics, removing iPads and Chromebooks, and reducing noise. Students will be able to focus more quickly if there is less distraction in the classroom.
2. Establish a Goal
Students need a cause to read, whether it’s just for fun, to discover something new, or to find out what happens next in their favorite series. Teachers should encourage students to make a plan for their reading each time they pick up a book. This will enable students to think critically about what they’re reading, which will enhance their understanding and increase their reading stamina. When they’re finished, schedule some time to discuss what they just read with them to encourage even more in-depth reflection.
3. Establish a Special Reading Space
Having a discussion with students about their preferred reading locations and setting up a particular, comfortable space with readily available high-interest books would help in increasing reading stamina in adolescent students. The ability of students to focus while studying is also impacted by having a defined study area. During online classes, refrain from making students read at their desks. Instead, counsel them to locate a peaceful spot throughout the class. Having a unique space for the study is always helpful for concentration, and it increases the reading stamina of students as well. It takes time to develop reading stamina in adolescent students, but patience and consistency can make it easy.
4. Implement The 50-10 rule
The best strategy to help students build their reading stamina is to practice the 50-10 rule. To build reading stamina, teachers must try this method in their classes. According to this method, students should study for 50 minutes, take a 10-minute break, and then repeat. It will enable their brain to unwind before they can concentrate once more. Teachers must encourage their students to rest during this 10-minute break. Suggest students take a break, get some fresh air, eat a snack, and then resume reading if they want to read at home for an hour or longer.
5. Ask students to evaluate themselves
Ask students to evaluate their reading logs four times a year and to consider the number of books they have finished, their favorite novels, the ones they have revisited, and the amount of reading they have done at home. Then, instruct students to use their self-evaluations to create reasonable independent reading goals, which could be anything from reading longer books, expanding their home reading time by fifteen minutes, trying a new genre, adding a book to the graffiti wall, or reading more works by a particular author. It will definitely help adolescent students to build their reading stamina.
Final Thoughts
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