Read Alouds: Elementary/Middle/High School

There are many different opinions on read alouds and their focus.  A read aloud is a text or passage selected by the teacher to read publicly to a large or small group of students.  When I hear this definition I immediately think about “carpet time” in a kindergarten classroom.  This is the problem.  Narrow minded point of views about read alouds can sometimes give it a bad name when used in the middle schools or secondary content area classrooms.  Although read alouds have been shown to be effective for young children’s literacy development, they can also be used to motivate older, reluctant readers.

            The reason teacher’s ask students to read is so that they will develop a deeper understanding of a topic.  This does not always work for all students.  Some students won’t read the assigned material at all.  Reading aloud is a way to ensure that all students are exposed to the text the teacher wants them to hear/read.  It increases students’ understanding of the content and their engagement as well as the chances the student will be able to make meaningful connections between learning and their own lives.  During a study of 1,700 sixth graders, read alouds were named as one of the two most preferred reading activities in school.  Using read alouds in the middles school and secondary classrooms have positive outcomes for both motivation and learning.

            By using read alouds in the primary grades, students are exposed to many different levels of text.  Since the children are strictly listening and not following along, the complexity of the material can be raised.  This gives students an opportunity to be introduced to important texts that some students might not otherwise be able to read and comprehend independently.

            A successful read aloud takes some planning.  Previewing and practicing the text always ensures for a smoother read aloud.  Engage students by pausing to ask questions occasionally.  Encourage students to share any ideas, thoughts, or confusions they have regarding the text.  By reading aloud, students will become fully engaged in the text and will understand the content.  Read alouds are appropriate for any grade and can be used to better a student’s education in any content area.

Questions?

Are read alouds as effective in high school science/social studies classes as they are in elementary?

What is the most appropriate way to conduct a read aloud to high school students? (I would assume a picture walk and all is not necessary)