Reading Goals

So yesterday I shared with my students their overall class grade level reading averages (about 3rd grade) as well as their scores independently in private. I wasn't sure if it was the right approach to take, but it certainly lit a fire underneath most of their seats. I had shared with them first that their lower reading abilities have nothing to do with them, and that it is the fault of their prior educational experiences. A small, quiet senior that rarely ever speaks up in my class stood up and yelled "Damn the Man!" Although I don't tolerate profanity or put-downs in my class, I appreciated his passion, and also how this explosion made way to a great class discussion about race, class and education. I was very impressed with their insight, and pointed to some of their comments as evidence of their learning potential. We made a big goal as a class to grow at least two years in reading! They are all eager to read out loud in class, and have asked for more reading diagnostics so they can get a better idea of what to work on. I love these kids. Damn the Man! ;)