The Value of Read-Aloud to ESL Kids

If you are looking for an effective strategy on how to how to teach English as a Second Language,rejoice. Reading aloud in class is the answer. This simple strategy is very effective- if you know how to properly apply it.

When teaching ESL kids, you must never skip reading aloud each day. Read-aloud is sacred. It introduces students to a variety of genres. It also improves reading and listening skills while enabling you to model reading strategies that students must learn.

Reading aloud poetry, myths, short stories, magazines and newspapers allows learners to strengthen their experiences with literary language. It’s an opportunity for them to build prior knowledge and experience by listening to words and sentences while teaching them correct pronunciation, fluency and expression.

Read-Aloud Lesson Strategies

It is important to note that in having class read-alouds, you must use a story that is short enough to retain kids’ attention all through out the text. Choose an article that is simple, entertaining and filled with life-long lessons.

Prereading Strategies

Before reading aloud a story, let the students activate their past knowledge and experiences. Have them skim, scam and brainstorm. Getting them involved before reading the story will hook their interst to listen to you.

During Reading Strategies

While reading, make sure that the ESL kids are able to connect with the story. This can be done through summarizing, asking questions and restating the story once in a while. You must also be very dramatic while reading. Be a ham. Kids enjoy hearing different voices of different characters and they are alo hooked to diffrent pitch and volume of your reading. Make them feel that you enjoy what you are doing so that they will also enjoy listening to you.

After Reading

Deepen students’ understanding to the story by asking questions and by making them connect with the characters. Encourage them to relate the story to real life situations and to share it with their classmates. You may download this storytelling worksheet that you can use for read-alouds inside the classroom.

The 8-minute Lesson Sample

Title: The Sun and the Wind

Genre: Short Story

Procedure:

1. Let kids sit in circle.
2. Set the mood by playing a soft classical music.
3. Draw a sun and a moon. Ask them who they think is stronger.
4. Read the short story enthusiastically.
5. Check if the students understood the story read. Recall details and make inferences.
6. Give opportunities for the kids to relate the short story to real life experiences.

Quick Read-Aloud Tips

1. Read the story before you share it with your class to make sure that it is age and level appropriate.
2. Allot 8-15 minutes for read-aloud each day.
3. Give students a variety of literary genres. You may use legends, myths, fables, comic strips, newspapers, magazines and poems.
4. Let the feel relaxed during read-alouds.

Read more: http://www.brighthub.com/education/languages/articles/83411.aspx#ixzz0xIU9jiQx