One of the most daunting tasks for teachers is motivating adolescent readers to read. While this may be daunting it is however not impossible. Many researchers postulate the the key to motivating students is through the creation of a a positive reading environment, the use of engaging, meaningful material and quick and positive feedback. In the construction of a positive reading environment we can lean on the theories of behaviorism where we positively reward all efforts and provide incentives to facilitate reading in the classroom. Casteel (n.d) delineated some steps that teachers can follow to create this positive environment for reluctant adolescent readers. He posits:
1. That achievement of motivation in the classroom is most effective if teachers set goals and obtain feedback from students.
2. Instructional material must be relevant, meaningful and stimulating to students in order to obtain students' co-operation.
3. Construct a reading program that meets the needs of the struggling reader.
This list is by no means the sum total of all motivational strategies but I do hope it will help someone.
Article: Casteel, C.,A. (n.d) Motivating reluctant readers to become mature readers.
The task of motivating adolescent readers can prove to be very challenging to many teachers. However, I would like to reiterate that the onus is on the teachers to create a positive learning environment in which students can feel confident in their ability to achieve success when reading and writing. This calls for extensive planning and patience on the part of teachers. It is a time consuming exercise to develop self-efficacy in struggling readers. Nevertheless, once students begin to experience success and realise that they are developing and improving their competence, then the task becomes less daunting and very much possible!
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