Hi Robert.

Thanks for reaching out and apologies for the delayed response.

Popcorn reading is often used as a way to get kids reading aloud in a fun and engaging way. A teacher picks a student to read aloud and then that student can randomly “call” on another student to keep reading. While this is often fun for on-grade-level readers, this can become a stressful and unpleasant experience for a below-grade-level reader to get put “on the spot” in front of all their peers and read with struggle. This can result in a student feeling ashamed, embarrassed, and reluctant to participate.

I think it’s critical that we move away from this practice in settings where there may be struggling readers who most likely will not benefit from this type of reading routine.

In its place, we should incorporate more inclusive reading strategies such as those named in the Appendix of this guide. Additionally, here are some additional considerations supporting our older, not yet proficient readers who may need additional support with foundational reading skills.

— Christina Lippert, ANet’s Senior Director of School Support and Foundational Literacy