Why? The benefits are tremendous. Our students usually have a higher listening level than reading level, so they are exposed not only to an excellent model of fluency and phrasing, but also to richer vocabulary and more complex stories than they can access independently. In addition, a shared read-aloud builds a deep, rich sense of community.
Tips
When: In addition to shared texts during instruction, a read-aloud just for enjoyment can provide a smooth transition after lunch or a satisfying conclusion to the end of each period (for older students) or the day (for elementary students).
What: If we choose books we love that are infused with rich language, captivating characters and story lines, and appealing illustrations, our students can't help but be transported.
Rehearse: Preview. I can't emphasize this strongly enough. We don't want to be surprised by a swear word, mature content, or dead dogs. Also, when we preview, we can determine stopping points to maximize engagement and elicit the chorus of "Don't stop there!" that inevitably comes with a well-timed break.
Techniques
Pace and Volume: By paying attention to the words as we preview, we'll know when to pause, get louder, get softer, speed up, and slow down. Louder and faster typically conveys excitement and drama. Soft or slow will be just right for dark or suspenseful moments. Don't be afraid to perfect the pause.
Expression: This became even trickier during a pandemic, didn't it? But even with a mask on, we can impart a lot with our eyes. They widen, narrow, shine, and on occasion tear up, drawing students into each moment. And the expression of our voices will often communicate the meaning of words. A hushed voice for whispered and a louder voice for exclaimed are just two examples.
End Well: If we want our audience to sigh with contentment when a story ends, we won't rush the last line. Thoughtfully reading the last line releases students from the grip of the tale.
Titles: There isn't enough room here for me to give you a complete list of all my favorite read-alouds, but I can give you 20 of my favorites. Read about them to see if they are a match for your audience.
Picture:
Outside, Inside by LeUyen Pham
The Bug Girl: A True Story by Sophia Spencer
Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld
Hum and Swish by Matt Myers
Cat the Cat, Who Is That? by Mo Willems
This Is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen
I Need My Monster by Amanda Noll
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson
Watercress by Andrea Wang
Chapter:
The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo
The Great Wall of Lucy Wu by Wendy Wan-Long Shang
Scary Stories for Young Foxes by Christian McKay Heidicker
Starfish by Lisa Fipps
My Life as a Potato by Arianne Costner
Adventures with Waffles by Maria Parr
Almost Super by Marion Jensen
Operation Frog Effect by Sarah Scheerger
Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster by Jonathan Auxier
The One and Only Bob by Katherine Applegate
A Tale Dark & Grimm by Adam Gidwitz
By the time you have read this, I will already have broken my resolution to walk every day and eat a little more healthfully. But reading aloud every day is an easier resolution to keep. I hope you'll join me, and I wish you a hundred magical moments with the students you bless with stories.
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