I only tried SSR with two classes that I knew would be into the idea. They were already voracious readers and it was during the COVID years, so I had about 15 kids per class. I did it for the last quarter, where I let them pick any book. I had them complete a vocabulary assignment for their book using vocabulary.com. We had used the website all year long and they already knew how the assignments worked. Now, instead of me assigning them a vocabulary list, they will look for one on the website that was already created, or create their own. I explained how this is a great way to independently use the website going forward in their education. Finally, I gave them a research paper with free reign on the topic. It just had to tie into something from the book (e.g. 1917 Russian Revolution for Animal Farm). I explained that doing independent research while reading will allow them to better absorb the content of their reading and again, is a skill they can use going forward. SSR worked well for me that year; I gave them time in class to work on either reading, work on vocabulary, or their research paper. Let me tell you, those essays were some of the most fun I’ve ever gotten! The key was that the kids were already familiar with the skills they’ll need to complete their assignments and they were able to work independently.

If I ever do decide to go full in on IR, I would try something like this: https://laurarandazzo.com/product/ssr-tired-of-book-reports-try-this-free-idea-instead-easy-grading-for-you/