Put a unique spin on sorting students into reading groups by using book speed dating – a novel speed dating activity. This is a fun way to introduce your students to a variety of texts at once. Even if you aren’t working in reading groups, you can use the speed date activity. Students can find new books for independent reading or literature circles in your class or work in coordination with your media specialist or local librarian. Read on to see how to host book speed dating with your students!
What is book speed dating?
Book speed dating is similar to what you’d see in a traditional speed dating setting. Books are set up at tables around the room ready for students to have a quick visit with the novel. It is an opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with a novel and try to get a feel for it.
How does it work?
First, select the novels you want to have as options. Next, create as many groups as you would want and have a notes page of some sort for students to write on. I have a pre-made speed date resource here complete with activities and exit tickets for students to utilize.
Give students a few minutes for each group (I usually give 5 minutes) and be sure to set a timer so everyone can see. Model what students will be doing, think-aloud your thought process as you work over the novel and decide if it is something you want to read. At the end of the lesson, have students turn in their notes (or utilize an exit slip) so you can assign novels to each student based on their choices.
Why use book speed dating?
Honestly, the best reason to use it is because it is so fun and unique! I think it puts more ownership on the students to select a reading they like. But it is hard to make a decision when you are quickly trying to read the synopsis of a novel from a slide show or select from a list handed out before class. The speed date activity allows students to get up, move, hold the book in their hand, and get a first impression without feeling like they will have to be “stuck” with it if it doesn’t jive with them.
My speed date resource already includes a checklist of things for students to go through with each novel. Students get their first impressions, read over the front and back jacket, and spend a few minutes reading the first couple pages before ranking the book and moving on. I love that they get to use those first impressions to decide on their next reading goals themselves. There is even a virtual book speed dating option should you need it.
Need help choosing the right books?
Grab my list of 100 YA Novels to add to your curriculum or classroom library. Any of these titles would be perfect for speed dating.
If you tried the book speed dating activity, let me know how it went in your class in the comments below. You can also chat with me on Facebook and Instagram about your favorite reads to introduce to students.
Happy teaching!
