What is the most important outcome of teaching the five-finger strategy for book selection?

The five-finger strategy for book selection focuses on helping students assess the appropriateness of a book based on their reading level and comprehension skills. The method encourages them to use their fingers to evaluate specific aspects of a text—such as the number of unknown words on a page or the complexity of the themes—allowing students to make informed choices about what they read. As a result, students become more proficient at selecting material that suits their individual reading capabilities, which fosters a sense of agency and enhances their reading experience.

This outcome is particularly crucial because choosing books that align with a student's reading level can significantly impact their motivation and engagement with reading. When students select texts that they can read comfortably, they are more likely to enjoy the process and continue reading, thereby developing their literacy skills over time. Additionally, this strategy enables students to practice self-assessment and develop a better understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses as readers, which is an essential skill for lifelong learning.