Emergent vs. Independent reader

[cozyfamily]

Hi Carrie,
Could you define what you consider to be the typical emergent reader vs. independent reader? My daughter reads slowly, (more so when she reads aloud), has mastered phonics but needs to increase her vocabulary and speed, and needs to use a place-marker when reading full-length pages. She still prefers books with lots of pictures rather than chapter books, although when asked to read a chapter book at the 2.5 to 3.5 level she does fine.

My concern is that she may be farther along than the emergent reader books, but "not quite there" enough to be considered a fully independent reader. Of course, we'll be reading a lot this summer so she may be completely ready by Fall when we start BHFHG.

[Carrie]

cozyfamily,

You just did a great job of describing an emerging reader! Kiddos in this stage are emerging as a reader (so-to-speak) after phonics instruction is "completed". They are working toward more independent reading and are most likely in the 2.0-3.5 reading level category. They are working on not reading word by word anymore and trying to become more fluent. They are slowly building confidence that they can read books with more text on a page.

Blessings,
Carrie

[icukirt]

Thanks to both of your for explaining it...I've been wondering the same thing!!
Kirstin

[cozyfamily]

Thank you, Carrie. I'll keep monitoring her progress and make a decision on which direction to go when we are nearer to September. I don't want to rush her, so I'll likely lean toward your program for emergent readers.