Reading Beginning readers take a developmental leap as they begin to apply various word study strategies to identify new words using phonics, meaning, and word and sentence structure clues. They can independently read a range of early-reader books such as I Can Read books, Henry and Mudge books, Little Bear books, Frog and Toad books, and Nate the Great books. During Read to Self time, they should be able to read for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Beginning readers rely more on print than illustrations as they read. They are able to retell the beginning, middle and end of stories. These readers demonstrate comprehension through participation in guided literary discussions about a variety of reading material including fiction, nonfiction, poetry and drama. They can recognize story elements such as characters, setting, problems, events and solution. They can contribute ideas and begin to organize information about topics related to units of study. Most students meet the standards for the Beginning Reading Stage before the end of second grade.