Read Alouds

As I continue to observe interactive read alouds in the classrooms here at Keowee Elementary, I thought I would create a series of postings on the benefits of this important literacy strategy.

What are read alouds and what can they do for instruction?
A read aloud is a planned oral reading of a book. The read aloud can be used to engage the student listener while developing background knowledge, increasing comprehension skills, and fostering critical thinking. A read aloud can be used to model the use of reading strategies that aid in comprehension. Reading aloud good books often becomes a tradition and favorite activity in the classroom!

Benefits of using read alouds...
One of the most important things adults can do in preparing children for success in school and in reading is to read aloud with them. Listeners build listening and comprehension skills through discussion during and after reading. Listeners increase their vocabulary foundation by hearing words in context. Listeners improve their memory and language skills as they hear a variety of writing styles and paraphrase their understanding. Listeners gain information about the world around them. Listeners develop individual interests in a broad variety of subjects and they develop imagination and creativity: what better way to build skills which foster inquiry?

Read alouds can be used to...

• introduce lessons


• provide an introduction to new concepts and build vocabulary


• invite conversation and generate questions for discussion


• model divergent thinking and develop multiple perspectives


• model different problem-solving approaches


• examine the colorful illustrations and photographs


• increase awareness of words


• model fluent reading


• show the range of topics, styles, and genres in written language


• extend and layer on existing knowledge