For the past three months, our 6th graders been using a fairly new independent reading program called LightSail. This program allows each student to read on their own iPad and utilize their own personal account (which allows them to create their own passwords and “profiles”). Although a complex program, LightSail is mainly comprised of three main components: Independent Reading, Assessment and Progress Tracking.

 

Although it has only been three months, the growth that students have shown via LightSail is significant. When students began the program, the vast majority of them fell below the initial 190L – 300L lexile band. By the end of January those same students are falling into the 610L – 700L band. This, of course, is after averaging the entire student body – there are numerous students who have risen from the lower lexile bands to scores well above 1000L (with plenty more falling between 810L and 1000L. Students also now demonstrate a great increase in their reading stamina – at least twice a week they will read for a full 50 minutes with ease.

 

Furthermore they have improved in their assessments, with the average student moving from below standard on their short responses to either approaching or on standard. Multiple choice scores have moved from roughly 25% accuracy to above 50% accuracy, and although holistic at times, conferences with the students have shown a great increase in their ability to think critically about their reading. Perhaps most importantly, these students have shown an undeniable change in attitude towards reading. Whereas they used to approach any extended reading with hesitation, they consistently express how much they enjoy reading on LightSail, and that it has led them to tracking down and reading more books at home.