What is a read-aloud?

A read-aloud is an instructional strategy where an adult reads a text aloud to students to promote engagement and comprehension. This technique is effective because it allows students to hear fluent reading and can help them develop listening skills, vocabulary, and an understanding of the structure and content of different texts. It also provides an opportunity for the teacher to model expression and punctuation, and it can foster a love for reading by exposing students to stories and concepts that they might not yet be able to read independently.

While there are other strategies in literacy education, such as silent reading for independent practice or peer reading, these do not provide the same direct engagement and instructional support that a read-aloud offers. A read-aloud encourages discussion and interaction, making it a vital method for enhancing literacy skills and comprehension in a classroom setting.