Students were introduced to this learning objective in the earlier grade
and will be revisiting its concepts in Grade 3.
Embedded Files
1.2 Choosing ‘Just Right’ Books
1.2 Choosing ‘Just Right’ Books
Choose books that are ‘just right’ for me so that I can understand and enjoy what I am reading
Choose books that are ‘just right’ for me so that I can understand and enjoy what I am reading
Have you ever picked up a book and felt overwhelmed by a sea of words, or, on the other hand, found yourself yawning because it felt too easy?
Choosing a ‘just right’ book means selecting a book that matches your interests and your reading abilities2.
Imagine Goldilocks searching for the ideal porridge—not too hot, not too cold, but just right. Similarly, a ‘just right’ book should not be too easy or too difficult. It should offer just enough challenge to keep you engaged and help you grow as a reader.2
Choosing a book is a bit like finding the right pair of shoes for a long hike – it should fit just right. If they are too tight, you might end up with blisters and feel uncomfortable. If they are too loose, you risk stumbling.
To find a book that is ‘just right,’ look for a book that you are interested in reading and try the Five Finger Test.
Fig 2.1: The ‘Five Finger Rule’ to Choose Just Right Books
Watch the video given below to understand how to pick ‘just right’ books using the five finger strategy.
Vid. 2.1: Understanding the Five Finger Test for Choosing a Just Right Book3
Remember the guidelines below when choosing a ‘just right’ book from the school library or e-library.
Fig 2.2: Guidelines to Choose Just Right Books4
Finding a just right book to read is essential to:
Summary:
Summary:
A book is ‘just right’ when your purpose for reading and your reading level is aligned.
To find a book that is ‘just right,’ look for a book that you are interested in reading and try the five finger test. You may also refer to the rubric for further support.
Reading ‘just right’ books help us grow as a reader by ensuring we understand what we are reading and enjoy what we are reading.
Extension/Further Reading:
To learn an additional strategy for selecting ‘just right’ books, click here to explore the "I PICK" method. Watch the video from 2:35- 4:41.
References
1 Finding ‘Just Right’ Books. Reading Rockets (n.d.) (link)
2 Reading Strategy: Choosing a Just Right Book. La Grange School District 105 (n.d.) (link)
3 How to Pick Just Right Books - Five Finger Rule & I PICK Strategies. Mrs. H Media (2023) (link)
4 Choosing ‘Just Right’ Books. The Classroom Nook (n.d.) (link)
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