FAQ-+Interactive+Read+Alouds

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why read the same book over and over?
 * We read the same book over and over for students to learn. They are immersed in language patterns and vocabulary

Why read aloud instead of showing a book on video or computer?
 * In a typical film, the image of an insect speeds across the screen at a pace of 24 frames per second. In a book, the insect’s image remains in focus and in one place, allowing the student to scrutinize it for details.

What is the purpose of fairy tales?
 * The fairy tale meets the needs of children to explore and wonder. It speaks to the heart and soul and helps them to understand the world around them.

If we only have a small amount of time for a read aloud, how do we incorporate discussion?
 * Discussion after the story is critical. Students from classrooms where there were more book discussions tend to score higher in national reading assessments and read more outside of school.

What is the transition from picture books to novels?
 * We have a need to know what happens next so a picture book is a good place to begin. Next, move to longer picture books that may take more than one day to complete and then to chapter books (less than 100 pages). You also should consider the amount of text on a page and students’ attention span. The difference between short novels and full-length novels is sometimes found in the amount of description: the shorter ones have less detail and the longer ones require more imagination on the part of the listener.

At what age do you stop using picture books?
 * You don’t. Students at every age enjoy being read to and there are a lot of good picture books suitable for older students.

What makes a good read aloud?
 * Plot plays an increasingly important role in holding the student or class’ attention. As students approach ages eight or nine the literature takes on a more realistic tone and the plots begin to center on social and emotional issues. As the teacher we must be careful and make sure the book is a correct developmental level for students. Never read a book above the student’s emotional level.

When is it okay to abandon a book?
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First, give yourself permission to abandon a book if it is not holding students’ attention or it becomes emotionally/socially offensive. Thus, the need to preview a book. Admit the mistake and choose another book. Another technique that can be used is to skip certain passages or read abbreviated passages when necessary as long as it does not interfere with meaning and purpose for the read aloud.