I look the book over—the cover, blurb, and a page or two on the inside.

Purpose: My purpose for reading this book is_______.

Interest: I am interested in this book.

Comprehension: I understand what I am reading.

Know the words: I know almost every word.

When a child needs help finding a good-fit book, we support them with the I-PICK process.

First, we do a little investigating to discover a purpose. They might need to do research for an assignment, or they might just need a good book to get lost in during Independent Reading or Read to Self.

Next, we ask them about their interests. They might love mysteries, fantasy, dinosaurs, or funny books. They may be motivated to learn about dogs because they are petitioning a parent for a pet. We help them locate books that match their purpose and interest.

After that, the student reads a section and checks for understanding to see if they comprehend and to be sure they know most of the words.

The beauty of the I-PICK method is that students can find a good-fit book whether they are in a bookstore, a library, the school book fair, or anywhere. Sending kids home with an IPICK bookmark gives them a visual reminder to carry in their book and is a great resource for parents too. The I-PICK method is a life skill they can take into any setting no matter how books are organized.