Final answer:
The most effective strategy to motivate elementary students to read independently is allowing them to choose their reading materials based on their interests. This intrinsic motivation promotes long-term reading habits over extrinsic rewards, which may provide only short-term increases in reading behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strategy most likely to be effective in motivating elementary students to read independently in school is C. Allowing students to choose texts about topics that interest them. This method taps into the students' intrinsic motivations by aligning reading activities with their personal interests, thereby increasing engagement and fostering a love for reading. While other strategies such as reminding students of the importance of reading for future success and providing extrinsic rewards can have short-term benefits, they are less likely to cultivate a long-term reading habit. Engaging students in critical thinking activities during guided reading is also beneficial, but for fostering independence, allowing choice is key.
Positive reinforcement can be an effective tool, and providing extrinsic rewards, like free time or small payments for reading, may lead to temporary increases in reading behavior as shown by the success of programs in some school districts. However, fostering a deeper connection with reading through personal interest can have a more lasting impact. Promoting the use of a reading journal to encourage active engagement with the text and ensuring students understand the pleasure that can be found in reading are also supportive strategies.
Incorporating these strategies into the classroom can optimize the learning process and turn reading into a fun and relaxing activity much like a favorite pastime. Therefore, while extrinsic rewards have their place, the freedom to choose reading materials is often the strongest motivator for independent reading among elementary students.