What should students in grades 1-3 be able to do when selecting texts?

Students in grades 1-3 should be encouraged to use their knowledge of authors and personal interests when selecting texts. This approach fosters a sense of ownership over their reading choices, promoting engagement and motivation. When children can relate to the authors or are drawn to specific themes or genres that align with their interests, they are more likely to be invested in their reading.

Recognizing familiar authors can help students feel confident in their choices, as they may already have positive associations with their work. Additionally, personal interest is a critical factor; when students read texts that fascinate them, they are more likely to develop a love for reading, improving their overall literacy skills. Developing these skills early on helps students become independent readers who take initiative in their learning journey.

While assistance from teachers can be beneficial, as noted in one of the other choices, forming the habit of making selections based on their tastes is essential for fostering lifelong readers. Choices focused solely on curriculum texts limit exposure to a broader range of literature and can dampen enthusiasm for reading.