Chapter 13- Reading to and with Children: Reading Aloud, Shared and Guided Reading and Writing

                This chapter was especially important because it discusses what to do, how to do it, and what are effective techniques when it comes to reading to and with children. When you look back to your beginning school years it is most likely that you remember the books your teacher or parents read to you. Reading aloud allows children to fall in love with the teacher who does it well and who does it often. It is important to be this teacher, because these are the ones that are never forgotten.

                The most important characteristics of an effective read aloud are passion and enthusiasm. These two characteristics separate effective read alouds from ineffective read alouds. Research has shown that increased motivation and positive attitudes towards reading comes from reading aloud. Reading aloud also helps language and literacy development in the understanding of story structure. Vocabulary, conventions of print, decoding, reading comprehension, and literary understanding all benefit from reading aloud as well. So why not do it and do it right?

                Reading aloud provides context for teachers to demonstrate the nature, purpose, and act of reading. It creates an environment that listeners have equal access to knowledge. It builds interest in language and provides models of language in use. Reading aloud improves listening skills and it also develops the use of imagery. Multiple perspectives and a broadening of the listener’s worldview are also offered through reading aloud. In the end, the effectiveness of a read aloud depends on the amount of consideration given to how often to read aloud, what to read aloud, and how to read aloud. To help you with reading aloud I have provides a few websites worth visiting. The first website that I think is very beneficial for reading aloud is Mem Fox: And Do It Like This. This websites includes such a large amount of information that you will be fully equipped to read aloud effectively. Just from visiting this site you can learn more about expert advice on how to read aloud. You can also learn about Mem Fox’s life, her stories, and you can hear her read aloud. I love this website and have found it helpful for reading aloud myself. The next website I visited was Jim Trelease on Reading. Here, author Jim Trelease provides a handbook on reading aloud at home and in the classroom. Various valuable resources can be found on his website that include links to several chapters from his book. Reading Rockets: Reading Aloud is another website that provides videos, website, articles, and resources for reading aloud. Reading Is Fundamental: Reading Aloud is a site that is worth visiting because it prepares and motivates children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to the families that need them the most. This is a great site that also includes resources for educators and parents for reading aloud, creating a literacy rich environment at home, lesson plans, and book selection. With the resources provided, there is not reason why anyone should not read aloud effectively.