Want your students to stay engaged during independent reading? In this episode, I’m sharing four practical ways to get students talking about what they’re reading—without the pressure of a formal presentation. These strategies fit perfectly within a Reader’s Workshop model and encourage authentic, peer-to-peer conversations.

You’ll hear ideas like using purposeful partner talk, reader response questions, and even mini-blogging to build confidence in reading, speaking, and listening skills. I also share how I use Google Forms to check in with students and guide future reading conferences.

By adding simple and structured ways for students to reflect and connect over their books, we make reading feel more relevant—and more fun.

Read more in the show notes. 

Related resources:

• Reader Response Task Cards
• Story Elements Task Cards
• Google Forms - Reader Response

Related episodes and blog posts: 

• 12 Ways to Support Academic Conversations
• Book Talks – Engaging Students in Reading Through Peer Discussions
• Finish the Year Strong: Student-Centered ELA Activities You Can Still Try

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