| Literacy Training: Beyond Round Robin Reading |
Context: |
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There are many ways to support pairs or small groups of readers. Many tutors may remember round-robin reading from their school days, but such techniques work against students' abilities to practice reading longer texts with fluency. The following activities offer alternative ways to help students practice reading aloud and silently, and to support their ability to read with ease and control.
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Goals: |
Tutors will be able to help children:
- Practice supported reading
- Develop fluency
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Materials/Preparation: |
| Books that are somewhat easy for students to read on their own |
Activity: |
Model these supported reading techniques, which can be done in pairs or small groups.
- Choral reading. Reading together is a wonderful way to share poetry or other texts with a distinct pattern. Students keep their voices together as they read in unison.
- Reader's Theater. Using a familiar book, invite students to choose a favorite part or character. Each student should reread the selected part independently a few times. When students are familiar with their parts, they should read them aloud to the group. Students can synchronize their reading and perform the selection for other students or the teacher.
- Echo reading. Pairs of students take turns reading short passages or dialogue. Students should practice reading to themselves before reading aloud with one another.
- Rereading. Rereading to a partner is a great way to have students practice their skills and strategies while developing fluency.
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Key Questions and Points to Remember: |
All students need practice reading material that is not too challenging for them. When a text is too challenging, students can become frustrated and comprehension jeopardized. Talk with tutors about ways they engage with students as well as the adage practice make perfect. Ask tutors:
- How do you ensure that each student gets enough reading practice?
- What does the adage practice makes perfect mean to you? How do you think it applies to reading development?
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Developed by LEARNS, a partnership of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (1-800-361-7890) and Bank Street College of Education (1-800-930-5664). For additional activities or assistance, please call. |
