As children move toward more independent reading, different genres figure more prominently in their interest. It is important for teachers to read aloud widely from a variety of genre and not limit their shared readings to picture books. One excellent way to capture the interest of children is to read aloud daily from a high-interest chapter book. There are so many wonderful books that children may not be able to read on their own but are more than able to understand and discuss. Never read "down" to children! Challenge their thinking and vocabulary by reading books above their "on own" level. Sometimes you plant seeds that take root and grow throughout the years.
There are several factors that make up a "good" read aloud beyond an interesting book. Reading aloud a book to children is a "performance art" as most parents who have read aloud to their children know. It involves pre-viewing the book, practicing it, using pitch, intonation and expression to make the story come alive It's a disappoint to hear an adult read a book in a monotone voice or one that can barely be heard! Stumbling over words or worse, getting into the middle of a story and suddenly discovering that it is inappropriate are pitfalls easily avoided by reading and practicing the book beforehand. You don't need to try to show pictures at the same time you are reading (you can but this does require a lot of practice!). Simply read the text, then, show the pictures making sure that pictures are visible to all your audience.
As the discussion this week moves into the topic of critical literacy, you will have the opportunity to view two expert read alouds that can generate deep and expansive discussions--if teachers ask the right questions. As you read the books for this week's literature circle, think about what discussion questions you might pose to your class. Remember that thought provoking questions that generate rich discussions cannot be answered with a simple yes or no response!
READINGS: Week 5
A Family of Readers
VIEW:
White Socks Only
No Mirrors In My Nana's House
ASSIGNMENT:
Shabanu, Daughter of the Wind
Tangerine
Joey Pigza Loses Control
Belle Teale
Questions? [email protected]
There are several factors that make up a "good" read aloud beyond an interesting book. Reading aloud a book to children is a "performance art" as most parents who have read aloud to their children know. It involves pre-viewing the book, practicing it, using pitch, intonation and expression to make the story come alive It's a disappoint to hear an adult read a book in a monotone voice or one that can barely be heard! Stumbling over words or worse, getting into the middle of a story and suddenly discovering that it is inappropriate are pitfalls easily avoided by reading and practicing the book beforehand. You don't need to try to show pictures at the same time you are reading (you can but this does require a lot of practice!). Simply read the text, then, show the pictures making sure that pictures are visible to all your audience.
As the discussion this week moves into the topic of critical literacy, you will have the opportunity to view two expert read alouds that can generate deep and expansive discussions--if teachers ask the right questions. As you read the books for this week's literature circle, think about what discussion questions you might pose to your class. Remember that thought provoking questions that generate rich discussions cannot be answered with a simple yes or no response!
READINGS: Week 5
A Family of Readers
- Chapter 8: Messages—pp. 267, 268 and 277-279
- Chapter 2--Why Reading Aloud is Crucial
- Chapter 3--Teaching Reading With Literature
- Chapter 9--Challenging the Challenger
VIEW:
White Socks Only
No Mirrors In My Nana's House
ASSIGNMENT:
- Literature Circle 4: Complete by August 9th at 11:55 p.m.
- LITERATURE CIRCLE PROTOCOL--postings due Thursdays and by Sunday closing.
Shabanu, Daughter of the Wind
Tangerine
Joey Pigza Loses Control
Belle Teale
Questions? [email protected]