“May I read the book to the class? If I have a problem with a word I can lean over and ask you.” I asked my 3rd-grade teacher.
He wasn’t sold on the idea. He was reading a book that was several grades above me 4-5 grade and probably didn’t want to embarrass me.
“If it doesn’t work out in a few days then that’s ok, but I know I can do this. Please?” I used my puppy dog’s eyes on him.
“Ok but it’s okay if you can’t read this and there is no problem with giving the book to me,” he said.
I read the book after lunch when he normally would read it. He told the class that he was going to let me read it and everyone could do whatever they wanted just like we had always done for 30 minutes after lunch. I was thrilled to be able to read a book. I loved to read and for me, that was more relaxing than just sitting at my desk.
I read the book and loved it. It was called James and the Giant Peach and I was able to read it faster than the teacher was reading it. I only had to ask him for the occasional word. Most of the time I could read the entire 30 minutes without asking him for help pronouncing it. After class, he told me that I could continue reading and that I did a great job. He spent the time grading papers and doing teacher stuff and that continued the rest of the year.
Ask for permission even if they doubt your ability to do it.