We know that students read better when they read more often. That means reading practice is key for developing reading fluency. How, then, do we best encourage reading practice in our classrooms?

One of the most effective means of engaging readers is to provide texts that are relatable. Studies show that readers can better construct meaning from texts that contain familiar elements. They're better able to understand and retell what they've read.

Beyond reading engagement, culturally relevant books are important for helping students to develop their sense of identity. It's important for students to "see themselves" in the books they read, and for their cultures to be represented in their curriculums. Additionally, culturally relevant books help students to understand and appreciate one another. Having a diverse selection of books in the classroom opens up entire worlds for readers and provides insight into other cultures and experiences.

So, we know that culturally relevant books are important...but, what are they? Personalizing Literacy has developed a rubric for identifying culturally relevant texts. When selecting reading materials for your classroom, consider the following questions from your students'/readers' perspectives:

* Are the characters in the story like you and your family?
* Have you ever had an experience like one described in this story?
* Could this story take place this year?
* How close do you think the main characters are to you in age?
* Have you ever lived in or visited places like those in the story?
* Are the main characters in the story boys or girls?
* Do the characters talk like you and your family do?
* How often do you read stories like these?  

Dive deeper into why it's so important to connect what students read to the lives they live and how you can develop a culturally relevant library.