INDEPENDENT READING: Breaking Down the Backwards Design for ELA Classrooms [Ep 270]

We’re calling it: independent reading is the back-to-school move of the year! In this episode, we’re getting honest about what it takes to build a reading culture that actually sticks, without burning you (or your students) out by October. We share the real talk on what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how our thinking has shifted post-COVID to make independent reading more joyful, flexible, and student-centered.This isn’t just a planning convo. It’s a mindset shift. We’re talking about modeling our own reading lives, creating routines that support real growth, and designing a program that meets students where they are. Whether you’re launching independent reading right away or easing in later, this episode will help you build an experience that’s authentic and doable!Related Episodes:Episode 96, How to Select Choice Reading + Our 20 Favorite Classroom BooksEpisode 110, August Dreams (September Realities) Back to SchoolEpisode 139, Independent Reading Series (Interview w/ Dr. Jenna Copper)Episode 140, Independent Reading Series (Interview w/ Abby Gross)Episode 250, Teachers React: The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books - Part 1Teachers React: The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books -Part 2SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode270"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Head to bravenewteaching.com/waitlist to become a beta tester for BNT University!Support the show📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻Join Happy Hour!Curriculum RehabDown with the Reading QuizShop the BNT Resource LibraryConnect with us on Instagram @bravenewteachingSubscribe to our YouTube Channel